Growing Together
Rancho Mission Viejo, CA (April 6, 2026) – Megan and Chris Keithly knew their first home needed to be more than just a house. Rancho Mission Viejo offered something rarer: a place to grow a family, connect with nature, and truly belong.
The couple had been living in Ladera Ranch with their lease up for renewal when the opportunity to purchase a home in Paisley at the Village of Rienda in Rancho Mission Viejo was presented.
“It felt meant to be. Our lease was ending, we had saved for a down payment, and the opportunity to buy opened up for us,” said Megan.
They moved into their home as newlyweds, having celebrated their first wedding anniversary shortly after being selected for a home in Paisley. Since then, they have truly made The Ranch their home and have gotten involved extensively by volunteering with the community farms and The Nature Reserve, exploring the trails, and attending community events. Over time, their home has become the place to host holidays and gather with friends and family.
As they put down roots, their family grew as well. Since moving in, they welcomed two sons. “We now spend our time at local parks, walking and biking the neighborhoods, attending ‘caregiver-and-me’ classes at the gymnastics and swim academies, and children’s events hosted by The Nature Reserve. We’ve met many friends with young children and are grateful to watch them grow up together,” said Megan.
One of the most memorable parts of their life at The Ranch has been the farm program. As a volunteer, Megan became deeply connected to the land, and that connection carried into motherhood in a uniquely special way when her son’s first foods were harvested directly from the farm.
“Zucchini was one of his favorites, and munching on the farm onions helped ease his teething pain – and made for some very cute photos.”
Rancho Mission Viejo features three neighborhood farms where residents can harvest fresh foods for themselves and to share with others. With a variety of programs available, from teaching children the basics of farming to professionally hosted garden and culinary workshops, there is something for everyone.
Though the Keithlys’ volunteer hours with The Nature Reserve have shifted since becoming parents, the family’s connection has continued to grow. They now regularly attend programs like the Mud Kitchen Mornings, an open-play experience that encourages kids to explore the outdoors and get messy, and Reading with Reptiles, where families enjoy nature-themed stories alongside resident animals, to introduce their sons to the same love of nature that first drew them to The Ranch.
The Keithly family’s home reflects the lifestyle they’ve built. They love the Spanish-style architecture and the front yard, which is perfect for their children to play. Just steps away is Boulder Pond and Playground and an upcoming school their sons will eventually attend.
The family enjoys everything The Ranch has to offer, from the Canyon House and Ranch Cove to Rienda Plunge, and at the top of their list, the farms. Yet their favorite moments are often the simplest ones: hiking and biking, coffee dates, farmers market visits, swimming, picnics, and long afternoons spent at the parks.
“We have everything we need in our own ‘backyard.’ It is a perfect, beautiful place to raise adventurous, outdoor-loving boys with ample space, pools, activities, and a wonderful community of friends,” added Megan.
Megan and Chris Keithly found something rare and discovered the perfect home on their first try.
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