New Colorado Home Brings Gardener to Rocky Mountain Foothills
After a grueling 900-mile move and a significant downsizing of their life, Linda Taylor and her family have finally settled into their new home in Denver, Colorado – a move that’s proven to be a dramatic shift from their long-held life in Austin, Texas.
A Rocky Mountain Revelation
The initial shock of a May snowstorm along the Front Range served as a stark reminder of the differences awaiting them in Colorado. What began as an overnight stop quickly became two nights, a humbling introduction to the state’s unpredictable weather patterns and a clear signal of the lifestyle change ahead.
A Smaller Footprint, A Larger View
Trading their expansive 17-year Austin garden for a 1924 Craftsman bungalow in the Washington Park neighborhood was a deliberate choice, driven by the desire to be closer to their children and David’s retirement. The new home, though smaller – a mere fraction of their previous one-third acre – boasts a charming porch, original wood details, and a surprisingly spacious basement.
Gardening Amidst the Transition
Despite the chaos of unpacking and house projects, Taylor has managed to carve out a small garden space, inheriting a terraced front yard planted with pollinator-friendly perennials like coreopsis, spiderwort, and rose campion. The garden, though needing some TLC – with creeping turf grass and volunteer catalpa – offers a welcome connection to her passion and a visual reminder of the beauty surrounding her new home. She’s particularly enjoying the afternoon sun on the Shasta daisy and coreopsis, and the occasional appearance of a hibiscus.
Challenges and New Beginnings
However, the new landscape isn’t without its hurdles. A diseased aspen tree and a significant number of invasive trumpet vines pose challenges, requiring professional attention. Yet, Taylor remains optimistic, dreaming of transforming the paved backyard into a thriving garden space – a project she plans to tackle after she’s settled in. She’s also relishing the absence of deer, a welcome relief after years in Texas.
A Neighborhood Oasis
Beyond the immediate property, Taylor appreciates the proximity to Washington Park, with its glittering Smith Lake and the 165-acre oasis offering respite from the city. Evening strolls to the Big Garden and Mount Vernon Garden provide a chance to people-watch and enjoy the stunning mountain views – a luxury she’s quickly coming to appreciate.