As neighbors gather this summer to celebrate Independence Day, Rich and Jami Mumley are a perfect example of the community spirit that makes Lake Highlands such a special place to live.

The couple has called the L Streets home for the past 12 years after moving from Uptown, and they can't imagine living anywhere else. Originally from upstate New York, both eventually found their way to Texas through different paths. Rich, who works in technology leadership, moved to Arlington as a child and later earned both his undergraduate and master's degrees from Arizona State University. Jami, a REALTOR®, graduated from Syracuse University and relocated to Dallas after accepting her first job out of college.

Today, their home is shared with three beloved dogs: Paddington, a cockapoo; Piper, a cocker spaniel; and Jovie, a Great Pyrenees-Labrador mix. Around the neighborhood, the pups are just as well known as their owners.

For the Mumleys, one of the greatest joys of living in Lake Highlands is the sense of connection among neighbors. They appreciate the friendly faces, welcoming atmosphere, and active lifestyle that comes with living so close to White Rock Lake.

"We love the strong sense of community and the proximity to White Rock Lake," Jami says.

That community-centered mindset extends into many aspects of their lives. While they enjoy every season, the Mumleys are especially known for bringing people together. Their home frequently serves as a gathering place for friends, neighbors, and clients, and they never miss an opportunity to celebrate with the people around them.

The couple's love of traditions is perhaps best demonstrated during the holidays. Christmas is a favorite season in the Mumley household, with decorations often going up before Thanksgiving and occasionally staying up well into March. Every December, they host a large holiday party that brings together neighbors, friends, and clients for an evening filled with laughter and connection.

Sports also play a major role in family life. As devoted Dallas Stars fans and season ticket holders, the Mumleys can often be found cheering on their favorite team throughout the season. Rich takes his love of hockey even further by playing and coaching the sport himself.

Jami channels her competitive spirit into endurance athletics. A dedicated triathlete, she spends much of her free time running and cycling around White Rock Lake, one of her favorite places in Dallas.

When they're not training or attending games, you'll likely find the family enjoying time outdoors. The White Rock Dog Park is a favorite destination for both the Mumleys and their furry companions, providing the perfect setting to enjoy an afternoon together.

Their advice for families new to Lake Highlands is simple: get outside and meet your neighbors.

"Spend some time in your front yard or take walks through the neighborhood," Jami says. "That's the best way to meet people and become part of the community."

Whether they're grabbing tacos at Taco Joint, visiting the State Fair of Texas, planning their next trip to Cabo, or spending a weekend afternoon at White Rock Lake, Rich and Jami have built a life centered around connection, friendship, and community.

In many ways, that's what makes Lake Highlands so special. It's a neighborhood where people know one another, gather together, and create traditions that last for years. For the Mumleys, that's exactly what home is all about.