For Carol Mix, life has always been about adventure, community, and finding joy in the everyday moments. From an outdoor lifestyle in Sun Valley, Idaho to discovering a new chapter of vibrant living in St. George, Utah, her journey has been full of adventure. Now, Ovation Sienna Hills is where she continues her active life.
A Life of Adventure
Carol and her husband spent 17 years in beautiful Sun Valley, Idaho. They embraced the area’s natural beauty and an active life filled with skiing, hiking, and attending community events like the summer symphony and the fall jazz jamboree. Winters brought full-moon snowshoeing trips to Galena Lodge with their dogs, while summers often included hiking.
“Living in Sun Valley was one big party,” Carol exclaimed. “Every day was an adventure. It was heaven.”
After their time in Sun Valley, Carol and her husband moved to St. George, Utah, a vibrant retirement destination only 30 minutes from Zion National Park. When her husband passed, Carol wanted to find an active senior living community where she could enjoy social opportunities and an easier lifestyle.
Discovering Ovation Sienna Hills
Carol approached her search for senior living with the same thoughtful curiosity she had brought to life’s other adventures. She prepared a checklist of her needs and wants. Having friends at Ovation Sienna Hills, she scheduled a tour.
Carol felt the welcoming atmosphere the moment she walked through the doors.
“You walk in and you feel like you’re walking into the lobby of a 5-star hotel,” she shared.
It had the things she wanted – a fitness center, indoor pool, parking garage, and restaurants. “The different programs really grabbed me,” she noted, “because they were taking care of your physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual needs.”
“It took care of what I wanted and even things I didn’t even think of!” she expressed.
When Carol stepped into a corner apartment with a wraparound balcony and sweeping mountain views, she knew instantly it was meant for her.
“I walked into that apartment and immediately could see myself living there,” Carol stated. “I’m so happy here.”
Carol is especially overjoyed that her bills are simplified at Ovation. She shared that she pays only for her car insurance and cellphone – all her other needs are covered through Ovation’s amenities. This is yet another perk of the lifestyle Ovation can offer.
An Active Retirement
At Ovation, Carol has found more than a home — she’s found a retirement lifestyle that supports her love for movement, learning, and connection.
“I am a true believer in the body is made to move,” Carol stated. “Ovation has everything and more than I need.”
She participates in fitness classes, wellness sessions, and so much more.
Social connection has been especially meaningful. “I am a very social person,” Carol shared. “The friends I’ve made come from all walks of life and all over the country.”
Life at Ovation Sienna Hills certainly fills social needs! Carol and fellow Ovation residents have enjoyed Las Vegas shows, trips to Mesquite, concerts at Tuacahn Theater surrounded by red rock cliffs, and theater and symphony performances in St. George.
There’s plenty to do right at Ovation too, from cooking classes to art, educational sessions, musical performances, and more.
One memorable moment at Ovation Sienna Hills that stands out to Carol was a visit from the CEO, Rick Miller. Rick visited with residents, got to know them, and enjoyed cards and a glass of wine.
“I was so impressed when he came and met one-on-one with people,” Carol stated.
No Second Guesses
Carol’s move to Ovation was not only practical but deeply fulfilling. She appreciates the thoughtful amenities, like her garage parking spot that keeps her car safe from the elements, and the vibrant retirement lifestyle Ovation offers.
“I have never once questioned my decision to move to Ovation. It has everything I want and that I need to continue and complete my last chapter of life. There are no second guesses about the decision I’ve made.”
Carol feels blessed to have found Ovation with the support of her late husband. “I feel my husband guided me here,” she shared.
Advice for Others
For those considering a senior living community, Carol encourages preparedness. “Make a list of questions and a list of the things that are most important for you,” she advised. “How do you feel when you walk into the place? I think the atmosphere is important.”
At Ovation, Carol has found joy, friendship, and fulfillment. “There’s no place around here that even comes close to Ovation.”
