A part-timer turned full-time resident, Karen Echeverria leads summer water aerobics classes for all residents and helps put together monthly resident potlucks at Island Camp. We sat down with her to talk about her experience at Delta Coves, what she loves about water, and getting involved in the community.
Tell us about yourself.
I am a native Californian – originally from the Sacramento area. I retired from the State of California in 2006 but continued to work part time another 14 years in the Health & Welfare Agency. Michael and I have been married almost 25 years. We have 3 adult children (me, 2 sons; him, 1 daughter). We also have a conglomeration of grandchildren ranging from ages 9 to 31, and even 1 great grandchild who is 2.
How long have you called Delta Coves home?
We got our keys on July 9, 2020. I believe we were the 5th or 6th resident here. We lived here part time for the first couple years, sharing our time between Elk Grove during the week and Delta Coves on the weekends. We moved here full time when Michael retired in 2022.
What do you enjoy most about living in Delta Coves?
Originally, access to the water. But now, I would say the community, neighbors, and friends we have come to love.
What are some of your favorite memories and traditions here?
Well, of course, I’m partial to our monthly potlucks since I’m involved in planning and putting them on.
One of my funniest memories is the first time we took our brand new pontoon boat out to practice driving it. I usually drive and always dock the boat, because I am unable to jump onto the dock to moor the boat. So, Michael is the crew. I had watched videos on how to dock to prepare.
After driving around the lagoon for a while, I circled around and headed toward our dock, slowed and pointed my bow toward the dock. At this point the wind promptly drew the entire boat feet away from the dock, making it impossible for Michael to jump onto the dock. That was attempt number one.
By the fourth time around, I said, “I just don’t think I can do this!” Remembering what I learned from my truck driver Dad, I realized I had to think about what the stern of the boat was doing and, at the same time, compensate for the wind by placing the boat toward the wind and letting it be pushed to the spot where I needed to be. Fourth time was the charm.
When we got into the house, Michael checked and it turned out I was trying to dock – for the first time ever – during a small craft wind advisory because the wind was over 25 miles per hour! We still laugh about that. And also, we check before going out now.
What inspired you to move here?
I have always loved the water. I talked about getting a vacation home in Hawaii but Michael thought the travel would make it hard to use on a regular basis. So, I was searching “houses on the water in Northern California” and a website popped up about a future water-based community called Delta Coves.
The first time we drove here, there was nothing here but weeds and gangways with docks. Several weeks later, we visited the real estate office – which was on a houseboat. There were no models and only a roof over what is now the Island Camp Pavilion.
What do you think makes Delta Coves a great community?
The people, the care and concern for each other, and the diversity.
What are your favorite water activities?
Kayaking and cruising in the pontoon boat.
What other clubs and activities are you involved in within the neighborhood or Bethel Island?
Mostly the Resident Potlucks. But I do like to go to the Whalecomes and the educational activities that are provided. I am just now getting involved in the wider Bethel Island community – hoping to join the Women’s Club and help with Scout Hall.
What's an interesting facto others might not know about you?
I have been a certified SCUBA diver for more than 40 years. I don’t dive these days, but have spent many years diving off the North Coast. I have also dived in Mexico, Hawaii and Jamaica.
How long have you been involved in water aerobics?
Gosh, probably 20 years. I used to go to a health spa every year in Ojai with friends and water aerobics was my favorite class. The spa closed several years ago, so I started doing it on my own. I created a play list with songs to go with each move, making sure various parts of the body are addressed.
What do you love about it?
It’s low impact and the water always makes me feel weightless. I’ve struggled my whole life with weight issues and have had problems with my knees, so exercising on a hard floor presents numerous issues. Also, because I enjoy the water, I’m more likely to stick to it.
Who should try water aerobics and how can someone get involved?
Anyone who likes water and who wants to stay active. It’s low impact and focused on stretching and flexibility. If you are looking for a fast, hard exercise class, this is not for you. Adult women and men of all ages are welcome, but no children please. It is not a class designed for kids.
Any tips for neighbors considering getting more involved in Delta Coves?
I would encourage folks to experience several of the activities that are offered – and more than once – before you decide whether it’s for you or not. Also, stay on top of activities by regularly checking the website, reading the emails, and keep an eye on the event calendar.
The Delta Coves Facebook page is also very helpful. Sometimes people get a little over-enthusiastic about some issues, but it is a good place to get ideas from others and to find local resources.