Tiffany Hayes enjoys strolling along the paseo in her neighborhood, where she has lived since the spring of 2004. Her home is located near a hill where many neighborhood kids like to play.
As a Ladera Ranch resident for 20 years, Tiffany has always considered her community a children’s paradise. At one time, she wondered what it would be like for teens. Now, as a mother of several teens and one in college, she knows for herself.
"It’s just as much of a paradise for teens to live in because there are beautiful, safe inner community walkways to roam on and meet friends, protected from traffic with local establishments to frequent together. In addition, there are so many things to love about living in Ladera Ranch, such as caring neighbors, great schools, and high standards of living (landscaping and architectural excellence) that uplift and inspire me to high standards in my everyday life," Tiffany says.
Her favorite thing about living in Ladera Ranch is the plentiful open space, green belts, parks, and trails.
Most of Orange County also has aspects of what you will find in Ladera Ranch. However, many residents often say that nothing compares to the detail and abundance of natural plant life, trees, and structural amenities that we enjoy here in Ladera.
The Hayes' home is near the Paseo in Terramor Village, with beautiful open views. A tree on a hill has been a favorite play spot for many children throughout the years. It’s just an old tree growing sideways out of the hill, making for the perfect climbing structure and a place for kids to daydream.
Sometimes, the children leave their little belongings, such as snack bags, styrofoam cups, etc. The amount of litter has increased recently to the point that Tiffany noticed. Much of the litter was being hidden by plants and shrubs, but from the sidewalk on the hill, it was definitely noticeable. Most of Ladera is litter-free, which indicates the pride of ownership that is abundant here. However, Tiffany felt that this was just something that needed to be cleaned up.
Tiffany enlisted her husband, Jason, to help clean up the litter. He gladly did so. They gathered pairs of gloves, and trash bags and went to work.
Seemingly small actions like this can significantly impact and foster the sense of community we enjoy in Ladera Ranch. We all have a choice about how we participate as residents of our community. We can complain about what we dislike or take action. We can grumble about the youth, or we can coach, mentor, or lead by example. We can be misinformed and disengaged, or we can make a positive contribution and be productive.
Because of Tiffany's recent experience cleaning up the hill, and in the spirit of using every opportunity to coach, guide, and encourage children, she was inspired to write this poem:
"We took a walk, and on our way, we found the perfect place to play. We climbed and sat and dreamed and planned upon this kind and lovely land. So let us promise, you and I, beneath the blue or cloudy sky and nature’s ever-watchful eye, we pinky-promise, cross our hearts to take our trash when we depart." (poem by Tiffany Hayes)
Thank you, Tiffany and Jason, for sharing your experience and fostering the values of responsibility, accountability, and community.
Other articles
The Ripple Effect of Care and Community Service
Being Intentional about Random Acts of Kindness
Neighborhood Reppin' - Keeping Ladera Connected and Fun!
