By Terra Avilla
If you’ve lived in our community for a while, chances are you’ve heard the name Ms. Dunn.
For years, she’s been known as the beloved second-grade teacher who helped shape hundreds of little lives with her patience, kindness, and that trademark warm smile.
But around her home, she proudly goes by another name… Grandma.
One of the first things I discovered after moving in was a “you drawer” a special spot Linda had made for my girls before we even unpacked a single box. It was filled with thoughtful little things just for them, a small gesture that made us feel instantly at home in what had been her house for so many years.
My girls now call it the “Linda Drawer”.
Later, when I found myself staring down a backyard full of dahlia plants, I had no idea how to handle, Linda didn’t hesitate to come over and dig in… literally. We spent the afternoon unearthing about a hundred dahlias (and a few laughs) together as my girls “helped” us dig into the dirt for a couple hours.
Linda is quite literally the kind of neighbor who makes this community what it is. She always has time for a wave or a quick chat, and she’s never once seemed bothered when my kids pop over just to say hi to “Ms. Dunn.”
She welcomes them like family every time. We even score some homemade treats once in a while… and you know Frankie and I are not complaining.
Linda is the kind of person who makes our neighborhood feel safe and wonderful and our new house like home. She is generous, patient, and quietly extraordinary. And that’s exactly why we love this place.
Since moving in next door, I’ve come to know Linda not just as the famous second-grade teacher everyone adores, but as a gentle, funny, and thoughtful neighbor who brings sunshine wherever she goes.
Whether she’s tending to her yard, waving to everyone who walks by, or sharing stories about her beautiful grandkids (her obvious pride and joy), Linda radiates kindness and genuine love for people and is one of the reasons I love where we live.
