The cats enjoy the southern view from my new home office. This is about the same view we’ll enjoy from the Gatehouse when it is built.

The cats enjoy the southern view from my new home office. This is about the same view we’ll enjoy from the Gatehouse when it is built.

I have been waiting to move into Geos and with the Ralston Creek Co-Housers for more than six years.  On a wintry day back then, I walked the property with Norbert and my spouse (Bob).  Norbert told us about his plans to build a sustainable, walkable, friendly neighbor, with solar and ground source energy, pocket parks, and mixed commercial and residential uses.  The beautiful location and Norbert’s vision drew me in; I was completely hooked.

I was unhappy in my old house.  It was beautiful, a dome set in a lodgepole pine forest.  But, it was too big, an energy hog.  I had almost no neighbors.  I drove 20 minutes to the nearest services.  I was in the mountains, but surrounded by private land, so it was hard to take walks.  It was cold and windy in the winter.  I wanted to move to Geos.  Now.

After all these years, I just couldn’t wait any longer.  So, I bought a townhouse while I wait for the Gatehouse to be built and Ralston Creek Co-Housers to move into our new homes.  Now, I look out my new home office windows at the Front Range, at the trees lining the edge of Geos, at the Ralston Creek Trail, and at the goats as they keep down the weeds on (so far) undeveloped areas of Geos.  I got a good start on downsizing.  I will sell the townhouse when we open the Gatehouse and complete my downsizing.  Meanwhile, I consider it an investment in my current peace of mind and my future retirement.

The house is lovely, with all wood floors, grey cabinets and blinds, enormous windows that let in the winter light, and solar power!  My appliances are all energy savers!  I have neighbors!  I can walk to services!  I can walk on Ralston Creek Trail!  I meet people visiting the goats!  The cats come to the window and scare away any dogs walking by, which they really enjoy!  (I know that’s too many exclamation marks, but I am so excited!)

The Gatehouse and Ralston Creek Co-Housing still beckon.  When the Gatehouse opens, I will be in it.  I will sell the townhouse without a second thought.  I want a smaller place and I want the view from the Gatehouse.  And, I really want to live with the other co-housers!  But, I have gotten a step closer to the Gatehouse, in my new, almost dream home.