Where I Live: Family finds ‘village’ of community off Eagle Mountain Lake

By Paula Hawpe

I have always believed that each of us is a product of the people and communities that have formed us into the persons we are. 

An important thing for a person is their home, where they live. It provides social support for their family. My home of nearly 40 years has done just that.

In 1986, my husband, Richard, and I were looking for a special place to raise our family. We wanted where we lived to be more than just an address — we were looking for a community to help our boys feel connected, supported and valued. 

We found the best neighborhood for our family in Lake Country Estates. Richard and I had dreamed of living on the lake and were so excited to find a home on Eagle Mountain Lake. 

The Eagle Mountain-Saginaw school district was also a major part of why we moved to this neighborhood. It had a wonderful reputation, and we have always been proud of our school district. It was excellent for our sons, and I enjoyed teaching in the district. Our boys graduated from Boswell High School and both enjoyed Boswell baseball. 

When we moved to Lake Country, we were able to join its country club. My boys enjoyed playing on the golf course and being on the swim team with their friends. We felt such a connection to our neighbors by being active in the club. It made us feel special.

Early on, I quickly joined the babysitting co-op and met many friends that I still have to this day. 

Our boys call our Lake Country friends “the village.” Their friends’ parents were all so loving and caring and a big part of their lives. We had a strong support system across the community.

The country club is no longer, but we have special memories of those days. Now we have an amazing homeowners association that provides so much for our community. 

We cherish the quiet and peaceful atmosphere in our community as it offers a scenic and tranquil setting. Our neighborhood provides access to beautiful Eagle Mountain Lake, the waterfront park, greenbelts and playgrounds. 

Everyday, we enjoy suburban tranquility as well as natural beauty. However, it only takes 25 minutes to go downtown — where we attend church at First Presbyterian. 

We have always taken pride in the strong sense of community that we have. Neighbors look out for one another and are always ready to lend a helping hand.

Neighbors take pride in their yards, which makes for a beautiful street. It seems we all have shared common interests and are always eager to meet new families who move into the area. 

In this season of my life, I enjoy my daily morning walks, the beautiful sunsets, the annual Fourth of July parade, the concerts at the waterpark and connecting with my special neighbors. 

We absolutely love living here and feel there is no place like home. Having a place that you love is probably the best thing you can do for your overall quality of life.

Paula Hawpe is a retired Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD teacher. She has lived with her husband by Eagle Mountain Lake since 1986.