Pillow Talk, On Their Own Pillows

Stories by Fredrick Kunkle, Washington Post Staff Writer | Photos by Carol Guzy - The Washington Post

Although the differences can be subtle, a tour through Fort Hunt neighborhoods offers a glimpse into how life in an aging suburb takes shape as people, businesses and governments find ways to serve the elderly. Select an image to the left to read more.

Gloria kisses Charlie at the front door as they do every night when he leaves to go home. (Photo by Carol Guzy - The Washington Post)

Charlie Munday and Gloria Petersen, both 85, have been in a relationship for the past 22 years, living in their own homes.

He calls her every morning and afternoon and they eat dinner together every night. They usually have a cocktail first, listen to music or watch television. He leaves at 8 p.m. after Jeopardy.

They began dating at her retirement party when a friend insisted he sit on a porch swing with his arm around her for a photo.

They have no plans to marry.

"All that pillow talk, we do it on our own pillows," Gloria said. "He lives in his house and I live in mine and we only see the very best of each other."

No mutual toothbrushes or running around the house dumb looking, she explains. Plus, he snores.

She doesn't think it would be possible to stay in her own home without Charlie's help.

"I'm fiercely independent but if it wasn't for Charlie I would have had to sell the house."

Washington Post photographer Carol Guzy contributed to this report.

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