Moving to the Mariella Apartments
Posted on October 4, 2024, by Sister Anndavid Naeger SL
Sister AnnDavid Naeger SL recently moved into one of the new Mariella Apartments at the Loretto Living Center and wrote about her experience.
Photo by Anndavid Naeger
Photo by Anndavid Naeger
Almost as soon as we heard the first hammer blow delivered by a worker from Rick Everts’ Howard W. Pense, Inc., on the third floor of Loretto Living Center, rumors started to scurry around the campus: There will be 15 units of three rooms each; no, only 10 of two rooms each; there will be another elevator on the far side, maybe even one in the middle; there will be a roof-top flower garden; units will be assigned or names will be drawn from a hat, and so on. Keeping the rumors on track was more difficult than the construction of the whole project. But Administrator Michelle Essex kept a steady hand on the situation and delivered updates in a timely manner. As excess material was broken up and pitched out the windows to waiting dumpsters, the crew, based in Elizabethtown, Ky., kept a constant pace, day after day, weeks into months. They did not neglect our project for any other and came on time every day, living up to their company’s policy, “We build on time and on budget.”
It was amazing to see the giant book of blueprints spread over a whole table and realize that each tiny line on the many pages would come to reality on the third floor. Work was only slowed when needed material was late in arriving or when the many necessary inspections were delayed. A few weeks before the projected date of opening, I was called to come choose my apartment. Not assigned one by a committee, not one drawn by lot, but chosen myself. If I was unhappy later, whom could I blame? Shall I live on the front morning side of the building or the west evening side or at the end, middle or beginning of the hall? The final decision was difficult but finally contentedly sure.
Part of the maintenance crew helped make my move-in quick and painless. Shown hauling in the heavy stuff in the photo at top is Robbie Lyvers facing the camera and the back of Joe Graves. Following close behind in the other photo is Housekeeping Director Renee Edelen carting in the lighter things. They used the tree-bridge which connects the Convent and the Loretto Living Center over St. Joseph Courtyard. Don Nalley hooked up the TV and computer with his usual efficiency and easy manner. When all the things found their spot, everyone left, and I closed the door. A new treetop-level view will be different but will help me settle into belonging in this bright, beautiful new space. It may not be for years and years but it is for now, and I’m deeply grateful for everyone who made it all possible for all future dwellers who will eventually come.
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I would like to know how Sister Ann David likes her apartment. Great pictures and love her story
Of course, what is there not to like about the Mariella Apartments? There are 12 independent living units on the third floor of the Loretto Living Center. All have a handicap walk-in shower, a kitchenette with refrigerator, sink, microwave and/or air fryer. There are six units being occupied at present. One can have as much quiet and/or privacy as is needed for contentedness. We can partake in regular Community life as we have always done. We do not have a stove, but we can fix light meals for breakfast and/or supper if we choose not to go to the main dining room. Most of us go down to the main meal at noon to connect with everyone else there. We were allowed to choose our unit and to move in whatever personal possessions that we want or that will fit. There are many other amenities too numerous to mention here in this space. Being on the level with treetops is a bit different but has its own advantages. I believe that we are each in charge of our own happiness and this lovely area helps in that endeavor.