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# Meet Your Neighbors: The Johnson Family of Lake Village
In our new monthly feature, “Meet Your Neighbors,” we’ll be introducing you to the diverse families and individuals who call Daybreak home. Our community is made special not just by its thoughtful design and amenities, but by the people who bring it to life every day. This month, we’re delighted to introduce you to the Johnson family, who have been Lake Village residents since 2009.
## Finding Home in Daybreak
For Michael and Rebecca Johnson and their three children—Emma (14), Noah (12), and Lily (8)—the decision to move to Daybreak came after months of searching for the perfect community to raise their family.
“We looked all over the Salt Lake Valley,” explains Michael, who works as an environmental engineer. “What drew us to Daybreak was the combination of thoughtful planning, access to nature, and the sense that this was a place where our kids could have the kind of childhood we remembered—riding bikes to friends’ houses, walking to school, and having adventures in safe outdoor spaces.”
Rebecca, a pediatric nurse at Primary Children’s Hospital, adds, “The first time we visited, we saw children playing in the parks, neighbors chatting on front porches, and families enjoying the lake. It felt like the community we’d been searching for.”
## Lake Village Living
The Johnsons chose a craftsman-style home in Lake Village, drawn by its proximity to Oquirrh Lake and the established feel of the neighborhood.
“Our home backs up to a community green space that leads down to the lake,” Rebecca explains. “From our back porch, we can watch the sunset over the water and the mountains. It’s breathtaking in every season.”
Their home’s location offers the family easy access to many of Daybreak’s amenities, including the lake trail system, which they use almost daily.
“In summer, the kids fish off the dock near our house,” Michael says. “In winter, we love walking the lake path when it’s covered in snow. There’s something magical about seeing the mountains reflected in the partially frozen water.”
## Community Involvement
Since moving to Daybreak, the Johnsons have become deeply involved in community life. Michael serves on the Lake Village neighborhood committee, helping to organize events and address resident concerns.
Rebecca volunteers with the Daybreak Elementary PTA and coaches Lily’s soccer team through the community recreation program. “The volunteer opportunities here have allowed me to use my skills to give back while getting to know our neighbors better,” she notes.
The Johnson children have found their own niches within the community. Emma participates in the Daybreak Youth Council, helping to plan activities for teens. Noah is an avid member of the community fishing club, while Lily enjoys the children’s gardening program at the community garden.
“What’s wonderful about Daybreak is that there are meaningful activities for every age group,” Rebecca says. “The kids have grown up with a sense of belonging and responsibility to their community.”
## Daily Life in Daybreak
A typical day for the Johnson family showcases the lifestyle that Daybreak was designed to facilitate.
The children walk or bike to their respective schools—Emma to Daybreak Middle School and the younger children to Daybreak Elementary. Michael often commutes via TRAX to his office in downtown Salt Lake City, appreciating the time to read or work during his transit.
Rebecca, who works three 12-hour shifts per week, uses her days off to volunteer in the community and maintain the family’s plot in the community garden. “Growing our own vegetables has become a family project,” she explains. “The children have learned so much about where food comes from, and we’ve connected with other gardening enthusiasts.”
Evenings often find the family walking around the lake, visiting with neighbors, or participating in community events. “There’s always something happening here,” Michael notes. “Last week, we attended a stargazing event at the lake. Next week, there’s a community potluck at the village center.”
## Favorite Daybreak Spots
When asked about their favorite places in Daybreak, each family member has a different answer:
– **Michael**: “The east shore of the lake at sunrise. It’s peaceful, and the light on the mountains is incredible.”
– **Rebecca**: “The community garden. I love the conversations that happen while we’re all tending our plots.”
– **Emma**: “SoDa Row, especially on weekends when there’s live music. My friends and I can hang out safely, and it feels like our own little downtown.”
– **Noah**: “The fishing dock on the north side of the lake. I’ve caught some impressive trout there!”
– **Lily**: “The splash pad at Eastlake Village. In summer, I can spend hours there with my friends.”
## Community Connections
The Johnsons believe that the strongest aspect of life in Daybreak is the sense of connection they feel with their neighbors.
“We know the families on our street in a way that’s becoming rare in modern America,” Rebecca reflects. “Our neighbors have become true friends. We watch each other’s children, share meals, and support each other through life’s challenges.”
Michael adds, “When Rebecca’s mother was ill last year, neighbors organized a meal train without us even asking. People took turns driving the kids to activities. That kind of community support is invaluable.”
## Looking Forward
As Daybreak continues to grow, the Johnsons are excited about the community’s future.
“We’re looking forward to seeing how the commercial areas develop,” Michael says. “Having more dining and shopping options within walking distance will enhance what’s already a wonderful place to live.”
Rebecca is particularly interested in the planned expansion of the trail system. “As the children get older, having safe biking routes to more areas of the valley will be important for their independence.”
## Advice for New Residents
For families considering a move to Daybreak, the Johnsons offer this advice:
“Get involved right away,” Rebecca suggests. “Attend community events, join a club or committee, volunteer. The connections you make will enrich your experience tremendously.”
Michael adds, “Take time to explore all the different villages and amenities. Each area has its own character, and there are hidden gems throughout the community.”
## A Community to Call Home
After five years in Daybreak, the Johnsons can’t imagine living anywhere else.
“This community has become part of our family’s identity,” Rebecca says. “The children are growing up with a sense of place and belonging that will shape them forever.”
Michael agrees: “When we moved here, we were looking for a house. What we found was a home and a community. That’s something special.”
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*If you’d like your family to be featured in a future “Meet Your Neighbors” article, please contact the Daybreak Community Association office.*