After a Lifetime Apart, Sisters Reunite at Blakehurst
Sisters Barbie and Harriette have spent a lifetime remaining closely connected, even when they lived more than 2,500 miles apart. Born in Chicago and raised in Nebraska, the pair built their lives on opposite coasts as adults. They remained close by visiting back and forth a few times a year, but they never lived near one another — until a few years ago, when Barbie decided to move near Harriette in the Baltimore area for her retirement. Barbie chose Towson, MD’s premier senior living community, Blakehurst. A few years later, Harriette and her husband, Garland, moved in, finally reuniting the sisters under the same roof.
“It’s wonderful to be together,” Harriette explains. “We’re not on the same floor, but she’s just a short walk away. We can easily see each other as often as we’d like.”
As always, the sisters balance their independence with closeness. “We have mutual friends,” says Barbie. “And we have separate friends… but we’re all friends. It’s just been great to have Harriette join me here. It’s such a comfort.”
Following in Their Mother’s Footsteps
Barbie and Harriette’s journey to choosing a Life Plan community like Blakehurst was shaped by their mother’s experience in a continuing care retirement community in Florida. Watching her thrive in that community for almost 20 years as she moved seamlessly through the levels of care there gave both sisters a clear picture of what aging well could look like.
“We visited her a lot,” says Harriette. “We became familiar with how choosing a community like Blakehurst is a gift to our families.”
“Our children visit us, but they all live far away,” Barbie adds. “They are happy that we’re here and they don’t have to worry about us.”
Busy, Fulfilling Lives
Each of the sisters has found plenty to do and enjoy at Blakehurst.
Harriette is deeply involved in the Resident’s Association, currently serving as Interim Vice President. She Chairs the Building and Environmental Services Committee, while her husband Chairs the Finance Committee.
Barbie is also community-minded, having served on the Resident’s Association Executive Board as Treasurer, and now serving on the Building & Environmental Services committee. She serves on the Party Committee, as well, helping plan events and the holiday galas. She also loves taking evening walks around the community, especially around the campus itself. “Blakehurst is on a beautiful piece of land with a lot of greenery and friendly wildlife,” she says. “It’s fun to see what comes out in the evening.”
On Friday mornings, the sisters volunteer at Blakehurst’s new Corner Shop, selling snacks, sundries, and grab-and-go meal options to their neighbors. “We love working together,” Harriette says.
Both sisters enjoy playing games with their friends. Current favorites include bridge, Rummikub, and hand and foot. They participate in group fitness activities and many of the trips provided by Blakehurst.
And during the football season, Barbie always heads over to Harriette and Garland’s home to watch the Ravens for what has become a family game-day tradition.
New and Old Friendships
Barbie points out how easy it was to make friends in the community despite being
new to the area. “I was surprised by how friendly everybody is here.”
As a local, Harriette discovered several unexpected connections with her new neighbors. “I kept running into people I hadn’t seen for years. At last count, there are 12 women here I had driven a carpool with at some point,” she laughs. “I was pleasantly surprised at how welcoming and friendly everybody is. And the staff knew my name within the first week. That made me feel at ease.”
A Welcome Visitor
Though they love the Blakehurst lifestyle, the sisters remain very connected to friends and family outside of the community, too. This week, Barbie and Harriette are eagerly anticipating a visit from their younger sister, who plans to stay in the area for several days.
“She’s much younger than us and has carved her own path,” Harriette says.
“She sold everything and made a long-time dream come true,” Barbie explains. “She bought a van and has been driving across the country visiting friends. We’re looking forward to having her here. We always have a good time.”
About Blakehurst
Located in Towson, MD, Blakehurst is a premier Life Plan Community offering a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. Set on a beautifully landscaped campus with walking paths, green spaces, and inviting gathering areas, Blakehurst provides residents with a vibrant, maintenance-free lifestyle. With exceptional dining, engaging programs, and a strong sense of community, it’s a place where residents can enjoy both independence and peace of mind — today and for the future.
To learn more and discover if Blakehurst is the right fit for you or a loved one,
schedule a tour at https://blakehurstlcs.com/#/further/55 or call 410-690-3044.