Residents of The Woodlands since February 2017, Rob and Doris Humphries agree that their community of four years offers them everything they need to live independently and comfortably. Originally from the New York metro area, the couple has lived in the Upper Valley since they were married 25 years ago. When it came time to downsize and simplify, they knew that they wanted to stay in the area. The Woodlands was appealing because of its reputation for fine dining and surrounding nature views.
It remains appealing for those reasons and for many others as well. Currently, they enjoy either the Fitness Center or the pool almost every day. They also enjoy the on-campus performances, the monthly speakers, and the daily opportunities for informal socialization.
During their careers Rob was a psychiatrist in New Canaan, Connecticut, and Doris worked as a cardiac recovery room nurse, and later as a homemaker. The two have five children and eight grandchildren between them. They met later in life while attending the same church in Darien, Connecticut. “We were very blessed that the Lord brought us together after our late partners passed away,” Doris said.
Rob’s primary hobby is bird watching. He also likes to bike in the summer and snowshoe in winter. He especially enjoys being able to walk out the back door for a hike in the woods or a bike ride on the nearby rail trail. Doris enjoys gardening on the deck and studying family history. According to Rob, she is an illustrious genealogist with Mayflower roots. They share an interest in reading—mostly history with a lot of Dickens thrown in.
While Doris enjoys informal socialization, Rob prefers meeting up with residents for weekly games such as ping-pong, dominoes, and Wii bowling.
“There are a lot of activities you can join, but there’s no enforced socialization,” said Rob. “I do think the community aspect is nice. You’re surrounded by supportive friends all the time.”
Today, the Humphries remain happy with their decision to move to The Woodlands, and while they felt well cared for during the pandemic, they are thrilled the world is starting to open up again. “Our church is very important to us, but we couldn’t get out to church or to our Bible study group during COVID,” said Doris. “Now we are able to meet with our friends and groups off campus again. It is nice to see people we know in the community.”
