Couple Enjoys Life at Belle Isle, Siena Lakes' Final Residence Building

Tom Stapleton and his wife, Natalie Conner, recently moved to Belle Isle at Siena Lakes, the Erickson Senior Living community in Naples, Fla., drawn by the opportunity to enjoy an active, worry-free lifestyle in the community's newest residence building.

After practicing law in Pennsylvania for 40 years, including three decades in elder law, Tom often advised his clients to consider moving to a continuing care retirement community while they were young enough to fully enjoy all of the amenities, resources, and services.

"When it came time for our own move, we were looking for the simplicity, convenience, and security of living in a continuing care retirement community," says Tom. "We found all that and more at Siena Lakes."

New construction

Natalie loves that Belle Isle is a new building that has high ceilings, updated kitchens with modern appliances, and high-end finishes.

Since late December, the couple has been settling into their spacious, light-filled residence featuring an open concept design and den.

"It's fantastic," says Natalie. "We have a large lanai, and the view is spectacular!"

Natalie and Tom were delighted to welcome their first outdoor visitor, a duck they named Gus.

"He made it out safely when he decided to leave. But it was just lovely to have that open-air area so we could see him," says Natalie.

From their lanai, the couple enjoys watching the sunsets each evening. "At night, when it's beautifully lit, it's breathtaking," says Natalie.

So many activities

Soon after settling into Belle Isle, Natalie and Tom played pickleball for the first time. They plan on learning bocce as well as using the fitness center, taking exercise classes, and attending educational presentations on campus though Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU).

With a shared interest in technology, Tom and Natalie plan to attend information technology sessions offered on campus. They also look forward to golfing with fellow residents at a local golf club.

Before becoming residents, Natalie attended a tea on campus with other future Belle Isle residents. An expert on the works of Claude Monet from Florida Gulf Coast University spoke about the artist, an experience she found especially meaningful.

"We're thrilled with the diversity of opportunities to participate, whether it's lectures, hobbies, or physical activities," says Natalie.

Residents of Belle Isle also benefit from access to the broader Siena Lakes campus through a climate-controlled walkway, making it easy to attend club meetings, classes, and events throughout the year.

'The friendliest place'

Time spent dining and participating in activities has also helped Tom and Natalie build meaningful connections across the community. During their early weeks at Siena Lakes, Tom and Natalie reconnected with friends already living on campus and formed many new relationships.

"When I was working in the broadcast radio business, my job took me all over the country. In my entire life, this is the friendliest place I've ever lived," says Natalie.

The couple also enjoys shared meals with their new neighbors. From sit-down restaurants to the outdoor bistro and bars and grills, they enjoy exploring the variety of dining options available across campus.

"I think the array of foods is excellent," says Natalie.

She adds that they look forward to becoming regulars at Almalfi's, the restaurant located in Belle Isle, which features outdoor patio dining, a meeting room, and space for private dining.

Tom also notes that the attentiveness of the staff reinforces the welcoming atmosphere they've experienced since moving to Siena Lakes.

"You can ask anybody a question, and they will follow up promptly,"

he says.

This responsiveness carries into every aspect of daily life, contributing to the sense of ease and confidence Tom and Natalie feel in their new home.

The couple also values the freedom to travel without the responsibilities of home maintenance.

"We can just shut the door and leave without concern," he says. "Our house became a lot of work."

After taking a cruise in March, the couple hopes to embark on a Mediterranean cruise later in the year.

As longtime baseball fans, they also plan to spend extended weekends watching the Philadelphia Phillies during spring training.

"We can let the staff know that we'll be gone for a long weekend, or even a few weeks, and not worry about anything. That peace of mind is important," says Tom.

One evening, while sitting in their new home, Tom turned to Natalie and said, "I feel so secure here."

"It just filled my heart with joy that we both feel this way," says Natalie. "If you had scripted my life, I never would have imagined living in such a paradise as Siena Lakes. It's beyond what I ever expected, and I'm truly in awe of this experience. It's pretty wonderful."

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Michele Wojciechowski