After years of raising a family, working as a psychotherapist and caring for rescued animals on her farm, Sallyann Jennings found a new kind of freedom at Friends House.

For much of her life, Sallyann Jennings had plenty of people and animals depending on her.

She raised a family, spent 30 years working as a psychotherapist and cared for rescued horses and dogs on her farm. It was a fulfilling life, but one that came with considerable responsibility.

Managing a farm meant there was always something that needed attention. Eventually, Sallyann began thinking about what life might look like with fewer daily demands and more time for herself.

She wasn’t looking to give up the things she loved. She wanted the freedom to enjoy them, along with opportunities to explore interests she hadn’t always had time to pursue.

Just as importantly, she hoped to find a community of people who enjoyed thoughtful conversations and meaningful connections.

Looking for More Than a Place to Live

When Sallyann began exploring retirement living options, she considered location, cost and the kind of environment where she would feel comfortable.

As a practicing Quaker, she valued a community where respect for others, thoughtful conversation and shared values were part of everyday life.

After decades spent listening, learning and helping others through her work as a psychotherapist, Sallyann wanted to remain surrounded by people who were curious about the world and interested in exchanging ideas.

What appealed to her about Friends House wasn’t a packed activity calendar or an elaborate list of amenities.

It was the prospect of a peaceful environment, intellectually engaging neighbors and the freedom to spend her days differently.

During her visits, she found the atmosphere low-key, welcoming and comfortable. She could picture herself enjoying a quieter pace of life while staying connected to people and interests that mattered to her.

Making Room for a Different Kind of Life

Moving from a farm to an apartment was a significant change, with practical decisions about what to bring along and what to leave behind.

But some things were never in question.

Her rescue dog, Mikey, would be coming with her.

So would her books.

Over the years, Sallyann had accumulated shelves of books she looked forward to reading. Between her career, family and farm, finding time for them hadn’t always been easy.

Now, those books have a place in her corner apartment in the Lodge, ready for a quiet afternoon whenever she chooses.

Her family helped with the move, and visits have already become part of her new routine. During one visit, a family member explored the trails throughout the Friends House campus, discovering another side of the setting Sallyann now calls home.

For Sallyann, moving wasn’t about leaving her previous life behind. It was about bringing the parts she valued most into a home that better suited her next chapter.

The Freedom to Slow Down

One of the things Sallyann has appreciated most about Friends House is the sense of peace.

Without the constant demands of managing a farm, she has more flexibility in how she spends her days.

She has described the atmosphere as peaceful, almost meditative, and appreciates that she doesn’t need to fill every available hour.

Sallyann enjoys activities like Qi Gong, yoga and mindfulness, which complement her appreciation for reflection and personal well-being.

Other days, she’s perfectly content to read, spend time with Mikey or simply relax.

There’s comfort in knowing that she can decide what each day looks like.

Finding the Conversations She Was Looking For

Along with a quieter lifestyle, Sallyann hoped to find neighbors who enjoyed thinking, questioning and learning.

She’s already discovering those connections.

One gathering that caught her interest was the Bagel Club, where residents explore philosophical questions and ideas through group discussion.

For someone who spent much of her professional life exploring the complexities of human experience, those conversations hold particular appeal.

They also reflect something Sallyann appreciates about Friends House: residents bring their own knowledge, experiences and interests to community life, creating opportunities for others to learn and connect.

As she continues settling in, there are more neighbors to meet, conversations to enjoy and activities to explore.

Still Herself, With More Room for What’s Next

Sallyann’s story isn’t about reinventing herself in retirement.

Her books are still there. Mikey is still by her side. Her family remains an important part of her life. And her curiosity about people and ideas hasn’t changed.

What has changed is how much time and energy she can devote to the things she enjoys.

For prospective residents wondering whether moving to a retirement community means giving up their independence or the life they’ve always known, Sallyann’s experience offers another perspective.

Sometimes, a new home simply makes it easier to enjoy the life you want to keep.

Real Residents. Real Stories. Discover Life at Friends House.

Every Friends House resident brings a unique history, interests and perspective to community life.

As a nonprofit Life Plan Community in Sandy Spring, Maryland, Friends House offers independent living in an environment shaped by Quaker values, resident involvement and meaningful connections.

Interested in experiencing Friends House for yourself?

Call (301) 450-0884 to schedule a visit.