When Diane Emory and Janet Spaude became friends, neither knew their next chapter would eventually lead them to Cedar Community together.
Their friendship began at another local retirement community, where Janet helped Diane navigate the loss of her husband. The two quickly became close and spent much of their time together.
When Diane later decided to move to The Willows at Cedar Lake, Janet faced a decision of her own.
She did not want to lose her good friend.
A Friendship That Grew Through Life’s Changes
Diane and Janet met about two years before moving to Cedar Community.
After Diane lost her husband, Janet, who had also been widowed, became an important source of friendship and support.
Their bond grew quickly.
When Diane decided it was time to make another move, that friendship became part of the decision.
Diane was already familiar with Cedar Community because she had previously spent time there for short-term rehabilitation.
That positive experience gave her greater comfort with making Cedar Community her permanent home.
Choosing The Willows at Cedar Lake
Diane moved to The Willows at Cedar Lake, Cedar Community’s independent living plus community.
At first, Janet was hesitant to follow.
She loved her apartment and was not sure she wanted another move.
But after visiting Diane at The Willows, Janet’s perspective changed.
She liked the environment, appreciated the affordability, and saw an opportunity to remain close to her friend.
“I liked it and it was less expensive,” Janet says.
Those factors quickly led Janet to choose an apartment of her own.
A New Beginning Together
For Diane and Janet, moving to Cedar Community opened the door to a new chapter.
“We feel like we are in heaven.”
Diane says this season of life has given her an opportunity to focus on herself after spending many years caring for and supporting her family.
“It’s my turn to enjoy myself, and moving to Cedar Community has changed my life for the better,” she says.
Both women are happy with their apartments and the community they now share.
A Small Gesture That Left a Lasting Impression
One of Diane’s favorite Cedar Community memories actually began before she moved there permanently.
During a stay in Cedar Community’s rehabilitation unit, Diane hung a long sock from a drawer on December 5 in recognition of St. Nicholas Day.
When a nurse noticed it, she asked whether Diane wanted the sock put away.
Diane told her no.
Later that night, Diane watched through partially closed eyes as the nurse quietly placed something inside the stocking.
“These are the dear things that happen here,” Diane says.
The following day, Diane returned from the dining room to find a large stocking on her door filled with even more goodies.
“I still have that stocking and will never get rid of it.”
Finding Connection, Activities, and Care
Neither Diane nor Janet regrets the move.
They both enjoy being around other people and appreciate the activities available each day.
For Diane, the kindness of Cedar Community team members has made an especially strong impression.
“I could name all the people around here who are so wonderful. Kindness and care are above and beyond. It’s the best in the Midwest.”
Janet shares that appreciation for the positive and caring environment.
The Joy of Finding Friendship Later in Life
Diane and Janet’s story is about more than choosing a new place to live.
It is about finding friendship during a difficult season, having someone beside you through change, and discovering that a new beginning can still bring joy.
Their move to Cedar Community allowed them to stay close while finding apartments, activities, care, and a community where they both feel at home.
Sometimes, the best part of a new chapter is having a good friend there to share it with. Originally published in the Autumn 2024 issue of Live More magazine.
