Retirement is a chance to kick back, relax and unwind. However, Highgate resident Nancy Ayotte Bacot has a new lease on life in retirement. She’s savoring every moment in Highgate Regents, where she is a social butterfly. 

 

“I feel like I know everyone, unless they aren’t involved,” she smiles.  

 

Six and half years ago, Nancy was the sixth person to purchase a home in the Regents and it’s been home sweet home ever since. “I wanted to find my last retirement home,” she laughs. “I also wanted adults only.” She was looking for a gated area and a community with amenities. With a swimming pool, pickleball court, and a gym, it’s everything she could want. 

 

“I love living here,” she raves. Expect to find her swimming in the summer and crushing calories in the winter at the gym. “It’s like a family here,” she says.  

 

Nancy is very involved as the chairperson of the Social Committee. She enjoys planning themed dinners, generating activities and events for residents, and celebrating federal holidays with a barbecue and a potluck. “We also have other activities, including water volleyball every Sunday in the summer months,” she adds. And let’s not forget the year-round pickleball, which is a crowd-pleaser.  

 

With weekly and monthly activities at the Regents, there is something for everyone. Nancy notes the exercise program, cards, quilting, sewing, Bunco, Bingo, Poker, and luncheon that residents warmly welcome. It’s an opportunity to meet other friendly folks and enjoy a hobby at the same time. 

  

There is always something to do. One of their favorite events is the Polar Plunge on New Year’s Day. “It was so successful last year, it was crazy,” reminisces Nancy. With a barbecue and a potluck and a big screen in the clubhouse, it was fun for everyone.  

 

Nancy has lived a life full of purpose. Born in Ontario, Canada, she moved to California in 1963. French was her first language, but she quickly adapted to life in Bakersfield, where she’s lived since age six. 

 

At 39, Nancy made a bold decision to return to school, earning her teaching credential from California State University, Bakersfield. She became the first in her family to graduate college. “I wanted a career to provide for my children,” she says. Teaching became her passion, and she spent 25 years nurturing young minds at Lakeside School before retiring. 

 

Now retired, Nancy delights in spending time with her family. She babysits her first grandson, Benji, twice a week. “It’s my part-time job, and I love it,” she says. Her two sons, Jordan and Mason, have successful careers—Jordan in commercial real estate in Bakersfield at Bynum Inc. and Mason as the owner of Humble Oven Pizzeria in San Luis Obispo. 

 

Nancy is well-known for her signature popcorn, made with her secret garlic seasoning. “People won’t let me in the door without it,” she laughs. Her $300 popcorn machine has become a staple at community events, where she decorates individual bags to match seasonal themes. One fun fact – she doesn’t even use butter! Her seasoning pleases palates, one handful at a time! 

 

When she’s not planning events, Nancy is known for cycling around the neighborhood, crafting gift cards, and exploring local restaurants. A true homebody at heart, she treasures the camaraderie and friendships she’s found at the Regents. 

 

“Disneyland is the best place on earth, but Highgate Regents is the best place on earth for adults,” Nancy says. “There’s so much to do and so many people to do it with. I’m pretty content right here.” 

 

With her zest for life and dedication to her community, Nancy Ayotte Bacot is truly loving life at Highgate Seven Oaks. Be sure to introduce yourself if you haven’t already! Nancy would be delighted to meet you.