Peter and Carrie’s story goes back over fifty years to their days at USL (now UL Lafayette) when they met on a blind date—during the third quarter of a football game, no less! Carrie, a proud USL Sweetheart Dancer, caught Peter’s attention, and their connection was instant. They dated through college and tied the knot while Peter was studying at LSUSD in New Orleans. Their love has only grown stronger, and together, they’ve built a life filled with adventure, family, and shared passions.

Carrie balanced being a devoted wife and mother while simultaneously building her career in teaching, working with students from kindergarten through fifth grade. She also kept active as a certified aerobic choreographer and instructor, proving that she has just as much energy in the classroom as she does on the dance floor!

Peter, on the other hand, pursued a career in dentistry, specializing in complex rehabilitative and restorative dental cases. Though he transitioned his dental practice a decade ago, he now offers Locum Tenens contract dentistry in area offices. In addition, Peter has taken on a new role as a Chartered Retirement Coach, running his blog and podcast, Retiring With Enough, which has gained an impressive following in 74 countries!

The Guidrys love staying active and engaged in life. Carrie enjoys dance aerobics, ballroom dancing, dining out with friends, sewing, and politics—a passion she developed growing up in a political family. Peter is an avid reader, hunter, fisherman, and social dancer, and he finds great fulfillment in creating content for his retirement blog and podcast. Together, they love traveling, exploring new places, and making the most of life’s adventures.

The Guidrys have a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Carrie’s favorite movie is If a Man Answers, starring Sandra Dee and Bobby Darin, while Peter enjoys classic films like Cool Hand Luke and Forrest Gump. They both share a love for music from the ‘60s and ‘70s, with Peter also enjoying Zydeco. When it comes to sports, Carrie loves cheering on local teams, especially when she knows someone playing, while Peter enjoys attending at least one Saints game annually and has collegiate ties to USL and LSU. For relaxation, Carrie loves listening to music, sewing, and watching good movies, while Peter enjoys reading and unwinding on their front porch, admiring the beautiful views of Elysian Park.

When it comes to dining out, Mazen Grill, Nash’s, and La Fonda top their list of favorite restaurants. At home, Carrie’s Italian heritage shines through with homemade spaghetti, pizza, and lasagna, while Peter can’t resist a good Cajun gumbo or his famous pork ribs.

The Guidrys’ family is at the center of everything they do. Their children—Scott, David, and Catherine—have all built successful careers. Scott is a Home Inspector and Realtor, owner of Paragon Inspections, LLC; David is an Orthodontist with Guidry & Horaist Orthodontics; and Catherine is a Wedding/Commercial Photographer, owner of Catherine Guidry Photography, with a Masters in Architecture. Rachel, Scott’s wife, and Minette, David’s wife, are now taking care of the Guidrys’ beautiful grandchildren. Their son-in-law, Brad Michael is an architect of Brad Michael Architecture. Their five grandchildren bring joy and laughter, making family gatherings extra special.

One of their most treasured traditions is the Christmas Scavenger Hunt, where creative clues lead family members to themed gifts. This long-standing tradition has been a highlight of their holiday celebrations since their children were young.

Since moving to River Ranch, the Guidrys have fallen in love with their new neighborhood. They enjoy sitting on their front porch, meeting friendly neighbors, and soaking in the beauty of the park across from their home. With their daughter Catherine and her husband Brad building a home just two blocks away, the Guidrys are excited to have family close by.

Peter and Carrie are grateful for the warm welcome they’ve received and look forward to becoming active members of the community. If you see them out and about, be sure to say hello!