BEN WHEELER, Texas — The daily routine at Pam Lassetter’s home is anything but ordinary. Even feeding the fish is a family affair.

“The cats, the dog, the miniature horse - they like feeding the fish, they also like eating the bread, ” said Lassetter.

Lassetter’s house sits on several acres in Ben Wheeler, Texas, population 400. 

She says she wouldn’t trade her magnolia tree and pond full of fish for anything.

“I had to get back to my family. Been gone way too long. It was time to get back to the roots,” said Lassetter.

Lassetter lived in California for years working in the computer industry. The high cost of living was just one reason she packed her bags and headed home.

“I mean gasoline taxes, sales taxes, state tax, income tax. I think they were taking like 50% or 60% of my money. It was crazy, you know?” she said. 

Lassetter settled for a quieter life in Ben Wheeler. For her it was love at first sight, a place where cats and horses roam free and everyone is family.

“There’s a feel that when something fits like a glove it's meant to be, ” said Lassetter.

One of Lassetter’s passions is helping others. She takes part of a community effort where neighbors look after neighbors to make sure they’re OK. 

“You know, that’s part of the culture here. It's neighbors loving neighbors. People are always out helping people," she said. 

And in this tight-knit community, it's a family 400 strong. Lassetter has come home. 

She plans to be here the rest of her life.

“Life is gorgeous, right? I feel so blessed," she said.