For some time I have wanted to express my thanks to those who conceived the idea of “The Hamlet” on Lopez and made it happen.  My family and I discovered the San Juan Islands in the early 1970’s.

Two years ago my husband and I decided to make Lopez our permanent residence … a dream come true.  However, a huge consideration was my mother who at age 93 was living “independently” in her home a few blocks from our Seattle home.  As I was the primary caregiver, I knew this move could not be made without her consent to join us on Lopez. I gave her the option to move with us and live in the Hamlet.  She made a visit and immediately loved the cottage and its space. After moving in during October 2010, all of the neighbors went out of their way to let my mother know that she was very welcome and now a part of a community who watched out for one another.  Unfortunately, while we were away in December,  she developed a serious medical condition. The EMT’s were called, she was taken to the clinic and medevacked  to great care at the Anacortes Hospital.

It was later determined that a better place for my mother would be The Hamlet House and fortunately there was space.  I had always promised her that I would never suggest she move into a place where I myself would not be happy to live.  Maybe that is why I now find myself spending so much time at Hamlet House.  I have grown to love and value everyone who lives and works there. The care given my mother is extraordinary….and she can turn the heat up as high as she wishes!

Again, I am so grateful for the availability of the cottages and now Hamlet House.  They are truly five star options.  It has allowed my mother, husband and myself a beautiful transition into this new phase of our lives.

Mary Ann Bailey

Lopez Island