Finding the “Best Place Ever”
Rancho Mission Viejo, CA (October 5, 2026)– After losing her husband in 2015, Susan Boon found herself living in a large 55+ community in Palm Desert, where most neighbors were only part-time residents. Hoping for a fresh start somewhere she could enjoy year-round, she looked back toward the coast where she grew up.
When she began exploring Orange County again, one weekend visit to Rancho Mission Viejo’s Gavilán 55+ community made a lasting impression.
“I was impressed with the location, how the community is developed into individual villages, and the advantage of having access to all amenities at The Ranch,” said Susan. “As I drove around the Gavilán community in Sendero, I got out, walked around and asked residents if they liked living here. All I heard was, ‘This is the best place ever!’
”In 2016, Susan moved into Gavilán, and she quickly agreed.
Within a few months, she was playing pickleball and bocce ball, and joining bridge, water aerobics, dance and exercise classes. She enjoyed 55+ resident events like Taco Tuesday, trivia and musical bingo, and as well as Ranch Rides outings to Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the Laguna Art Festival and San Diego.“
The smaller neighborhood size makes such a difference,” Susan said. “You can develop real friendships with your neighbors while still having access to so much more across The Ranch.”
In 2019, Susan’s life changed again when she reconnected with her childhood sweetheart, Bob, after they had both lost their spouses. When the couple needed a larger home, Susan began looking at Orange County real estate again and quickly realized she couldn’t leave The Ranch.
"I love it here,” she said. “So, we waited until a larger home became available, and we were lucky enough to stay.”
Susan and Bob purchased another Gavilán home, and today, they enjoy getting to know new neighbors while Susan still walks familiar streets. She has also been exploring the nearby Village of Rienda, with its trails, lakes, clubhouse and new pickleball courts, and serves as an ambassador, sharing her experience with prospective homebuyers at community events.
For Susan, what sets The Ranch apart is the way neighbors look out for one another. On walks with her dog, Peppermint Patty, there’s always someone who stops to say hi, whether an old friend or a new acquaintance.
“There are so many reasons I am no longer the lonely widow,” said Susan. “I’ve experienced the wonder of great friendships, fun events and, most of all, the freedom to try new and different activities. It’s the best place I’ve ever lived because the people are so friendly, and Rancho Mission Viejo has created a place where that comes naturally."
“I’m so happy and grateful to be back in the OC, living in the best place ever. Thank you to Rancho Mission Viejo for helping to create our wonderful world here,” said Susan.
For more information about Rancho Mission Viejo and 55+ neighborhoods currently selling, visit: https://www.ranchomissionviejo.com/gavilan-ridge-homes
