•December 30, 2015•

Dear Editor,

After my wife died in early August, I was heartbroken and very lonely. I remember that before she died she told me I should consider moving into an assisted unit home. So in late August, I did as she suggested and moved into Courtyard Estates. This was the best decision I had ever made, other than marrying my wife.

I no longer have to pay for utilities, car insurance, garbage, food or extras. I no longer have to do my laundry. I no long have to clean the house. I no longer have to prepare meals or do grocery shopping. I no longer have to pay to heat or cool my apartment. I no longer have to haul my trash down to the dumpster. I am treated like royalty by all who work at Courtyard Estates.

The housekeepers even make my bed or do any dishes I may have because all my meals are served in the dining room, so there are none to do except for a coffee cup, glass and dog’s food dish.      Login or Subscribe to read the rest of this story.

They even take me to my doctors when I have an appointment. They take trips to Walmart, Dollar General or trips around the county.

Now, I would like to say that the residents and myself are really pleased to hear all the Christmas carolers who came by, and there were many. We are really pleased with all the other entertainers who visited us.

I would also appreciate the staff who prepare three meals a day and 99 percent of the time they are delicious.

Since I moved here, I have been in better health, and feel good. Other than when I fell and broke my hip.

Finally, I want to ask the businesses and citizens for donations to build a gazebo for the residents. We could also use some jigsaw puzzles. The ladies enjoy them, and so do I.

You could send or drop off donations to Courtyard Estates Gazebo Fund at 20 Courtyard Blvd. Sullivan, IL 61951.

Thank you and God Bless You.

Ed Dixon