I came to Bonita Springs after six years in England. This place, where the sun always shines, seemed like Paradise to me and, many years later, it still does. Southwest Florida was developed later than the east coast of Florida and the mistakes made there were not repeated. We still have our mangrove trees, and we guard carefully our native palmettos, slash 
pines, and cypress trees. Our building codes are strict and our beaches are not cluttered with high-rise buildings.
From my lanai (screened porch) I have seen a great horned owl in a pine tree, a pair of kites soaring overhead, a bobcat, a family of wood storks on the wing, rabbits, and an incredible variety of song birds. Those who live near water see 
egrets, pelicans, gulls, roseate spoonbills, and several kinds of herons. The great blue heron always brings me to a stop.
In an area where almost everything is new, almost everything is attractive — even the industrial parks. New developments and homes, shopping centers, office buildings, and businesses are all beautifully landscaped and attractively designed. It’s a feast for the eyes.
I have two public libraries convenient for my use: one in central Bonita Springs and a newer, larger one not far from Florida Gulf Coast University, our new university just east of Interstate 75. Two local community centers offer all kinds of 
classes, and with the addition of a new YMCA there is something for everyone.