Summer is beautiful in our sunny state, but it can be harsh on plants. Even though our summers are drier, your garden can thrive during this time of year with special attention. Interested in keeping your garden going throughout the hottest months? Here, we share tips for ensuring that your plants continue to flourish:
Water According to Plants’ Needs
We all know that plants need water, but you can take your green thumb up a notch by paying close attention to the plant’s specific needs. For example, veggies, annuals, and perennials will do best with deep–but not necessarily frequent–watering. Although you may be inclined to give a light watering daily, this practice will keep the roots near the soil’s surface. Shallow, frequent watering isn’t great for root health, so you’re better off spending a few minutes in the morning saturating the base of the plants. You can do this every other day or even once every few days, making sure not to splash the foliage (as this can cause fungal damage). Please remember that container-grown plants need more frequent watering, as the soil will dry out more quickly.
Provide Sun Protection
It’s not just humans who need sun protection—plants need a respite from the sun’s rays, too! You can think of mulch as sunscreen for your garden. Layering your garden with mulch a couple of inches deep will help prevent the soil from cracking or drying out between waterings. Mulch is also effective at keeping roots cooler, deterring weeds from growing, and retaining water. Chemical-free grass clippings are ideal for vegetables, and shredded bark or nugget mulches are great for ornamental plants.
Cultivate the Soil
To maximize the water plants get, take a few minutes to cultivate the soil as often as possible. This can be as simple as lightly scratching the soil with your fingertips before watering. Cultivating the soil is a tried-and-true method for keeping weed growth at bay while opening up air channels for enhanced water infiltration.
With more than 300 sunny days a year, the Denver metropolitan area can be a tricky place to keep a garden growing. Although the sun is vital to plant health, the drier climate can pose a challenge. If you’re committed to keeping your garden healthy all year round, the tips highlighted here may help you meet your goals. If you’ve been dreaming of a yard perfect for gardening, we’d love for you to explore available homes here in Independence. Whether you’d like to use your backyard or carve out a spot for yourself in our community gardens, our neighborhood is ideal for those who love the outdoors. Please contact our team to inquire about move-in ready homes or learn more about our conservation community.
If you’re looking forward to hosting loved ones at your brand-new home, a backyard barbecue is a quintessential way to enjoy the season. Ready to soak up the sun and treat the special people in your life to delicious food and great company? Check out our tips for hosting the perfect summer BBQ:
Avoid the Hottest Part of the Day
Even if your backyard offers plenty of shade, you’ll probably want to avoid throwing a party during the hottest part of the day. For a short and sweet lunchtime barbecue, you can aim for a start time around noon. If you prefer a later start to your shindig, consider waiting until the evening (around 6:00 pm). Either way, your guests will appreciate staying out of the sun’s most intense rays.
Keep the Menu Simple
One of the best parts about a casual barbecue is that no one expects fanfare. To save yourself some stress, keep the menu simple. Stick to one or two sources of protein and two to three sides. An easy way to combine protein and veggies is to make kabobs! Just slice up your favorite grill-friendly vegetables and layer them on a skewer with some chicken or beef. Grill for a few minutes per side, and you’ve got a dish that everyone will love. Need some inspiration? This tried and true chicken kabob recipe is perfect for summer grilling.
Offer Plenty of Seating
Of course, we all want our guests to be comfortable, so don’t forget to provide ample seating! Many details go into planning a gathering, and seating is one of the most frequently forgotten must-haves. While preparing the guest list, ensure you have enough chairs to go around. Now is the time to go through the garage and see if you can find those folding chairs you haven’t seen in a while (or ask a friend if they have any you could borrow).
Cover Food with Netting
On a beautiful sunny day when you’ve cooked a delicious meal, the last thing you want is for flies to crash the party. If you’re serving the food outdoors, stock up on covers to keep unwanted visitors away. These fly nets are practical and convenient for keeping food safe during outdoor events. If you’re planning a gathering that will be both indoors and outdoors, it may be wise to invest in a magnetic screen for the doorway so guests can easily filter in and out without having to close the door. This accessory can come in handy all season long!
Summer is a beautiful time of year to gather with loved ones and enjoy quality time together. If you’d like to host a barbecue to celebrate the season, we hope these tips are helpful. There’s nothing like hosting your first party in your new home, and we’d love to help you make this dream a reality. Please contact our team if you’d like to learn more about move-in-ready new homes.
One of the most important ways to impact your community is by pitching in to help worthy local causes. Elbert County is known for its warm, friendly towns, and we can keep it this way by contributing when and how we can. Whether you’re interested in volunteering your time or donating, here are some ways you can make a difference:
Support Elbert County Partnership
Elbert County is growing quickly (by 2% each year)! As we grow, we want to ensure that our communities remain a great place to raise a family, build a business, and live the Colorado way. Elbert County Partnership was created to reach these goals and is on a mission to promote the common good of all residents of our incredible county. Getting involved with this non-profit is easy, and there are many ways to get involved in your community. You can learn more about volunteer opportunities here.
Donate to Elbert County Coalition Outreach
Elbert County Coalition Outreach (ECCO) is a coalition of non-profit organizations that work together to provide services and programs for our community. Since its founding in 2006, ECCO has provided crucial support to citizens in need. This extraordinary coalition does everything, from offering emergency services to connecting community members with additional resources or assistance. ECCO operates a “second chance” shop in Kiowa, Colorado, that accepts clothing, home décor, jewelry, toys, and more. To donate or learn more about ways to get involved, please contact this organization.
Become a Friend of the Library
Pines and Plains Libraries aims to improve access to literacy and technology in Elbert County. This nonprofit organization serves Elbert Library, Elizabeth Library, Kiowa Library, and Simla Library. Libraries are a treasured part of our community, and you can volunteer your time and skills by becoming a “friend of the library.” As a friend of Elizabeth Library, you’ll play a vital role in helping the library flourish. Whether you raise money, participate in book sale events, or just help out however needed, you can feel good about contributing to your community. Follow the organization’s Facebook page to keep up with the latest news.
Volunteer at StableStrides
If you’re looking for a way to give your time, make the short trip to Elbert to volunteer at StableStrides. This non-profit, founded in 1981, provides horse-centered activities for individuals of all ages with adaptive needs. Some services offered here include adaptive riding, mental health services, and physical and occupational therapy. Donations are always welcome, and you can apply to volunteer. No horse experience is required, but you must attend an orientation before your first volunteer session.
Elbert County is a beautiful place to call home. Residents help each other out, and there are numerous ways you can contribute, too. If you want to join our tight-knit community, we have beautiful move-in-ready homes in Elizabeth, Colorado. Please contact our team to learn more about availability in our new community.
With summertime in full swing, it’s time to start adding some fun events to your schedule! Whether you live in Colorado or are just stopping by, our state offers unforgettable experiences for everyone. The Centennial State is known for its sunny, mild summers, and there’s no shortage of extraordinary events. If you’re interested in attending some of the largest and most well-known and popular gatherings, we share a few of the options here:
June 8th-August 11th: Colorado Shakespeare Festival
If you’re a Shakespeare or local theater fan, you won’t want to miss out on the iconic Colorado Shakespeare Festival. Although a Shakespearian celebration may not be as flashy as the other events highlighted here, it’s a can’t-miss for theater enthusiasts. The Colorado Shakespeare Festival has performed for over 60 seasons and brings classic theater to Boulder. From June 8th until August 11th, trek to the Roe Green Theatre to enjoy Macbeth, The Merry Wives of Windsor, and Arden of Faversham. Tickets are available here.
June 14-16: Food and Wine Classic
Aspen’s annual Food and Wine Classic is one of the state’s best-known events. Each summer, attendees flock to this beautiful and iconic mountain town to participate in cooking demonstrations, wine and spirits tastings, and discussions led by top chefs and beverage experts. This year, the event will run in the heart of Aspen from June 14th to 16th. Passes usually sell out well before this world-renowned culinary gathering, so if you’d like to attend, secure your spot ASAP.
June 21-23: Strawberry Days
There’s nothing better than ripe strawberries during the summertime. Glenwood Springs commemorates the beginning of summer each year with Strawberry Days, one of our state’s oldest and most beloved traditions. From June 21st to 23rd, the Glenwood Springs Chamber Foundation invites you to celebrate the season with free ice cream, strawberries, and festivities. This year’s theme is “Decades of Beats and Berries,” so you can expect plenty of live music while enjoying fresh strawberries!
July 5-7: Cherry Creek Arts Festival
Our state is home to an astounding number of artists, and CherryArts does vital work to make art accessible for all in Colorado. The Cherry Creek Arts Festival is the nonprofit’s premier event and one of the largest art festivals in the country. This year, the event will take place from July 5th to 7th on the streets of Cherry Creek North. More than 250 artists will be in attendance showcasing their talents, so come ready to explore Denver’s vibrant art scene as you enjoy live music, art education, and more.
July 27-August 4: Elbert County Fair
The 90th annual Elbert County Fair runs from July 27th to August 4th. This fair is steeped in history, and commemorates “how the West was grown.” Admission is free, and there are many fun activities to participate in. From mutton bustin’ to live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. Please note that certain events, such as the Bellamy Brothers concert and Centennial Farms and Ranches Banquet require the purchase of tickets.
August 23-September 2: Colorado State Fair and Rodeo
As summer ends, make your way to Pueblo for the historic Colorado State Fair and Rodeo. This event has been an annual tradition for over 150 years and highlights Pueblo’s role in the diversification of agriculture in the United States. Even in contemporary times, you can’t beat a good state fair. You’ll find live entertainment, exhilarating competitions, quirky vendors, and mouthwatering Pueblo green chiles here.
If you’re ready to have some fun this summer, the events mentioned here are sure to add excitement to the season. Colorado is a wonderful place to call home, and we’d love to help you find your dream home here. Independence is located in Elizabeth, Colorado, offering small-town charm with easy access to Denver. If you’d like to learn more about our new community and explore move-in-ready homes, please contact our team.
One of the most exciting aspects of moving into a brand new home is the ability to decorate and furnish it to your heart’s content. Whether starting fresh with new furniture or searching for a few updated pieces, you can’t go wrong with incorporating timeless décor into your space. Interested in curating an aesthetic that will never go out of style? Here are a few recommendations:
Chesterfield Sofa
If you’re looking for a couch that offers more than just a comfortable place to sit, consider a Chesterfield sofa. This style is defined by its soft, luxurious curves and looks just as lovely in a home now as it did during the 18th century. A Chesterfield traditionally features button-tufted upholstery, which lends a classic look to a living room or study. Interested in purchasing a high-quality Chesterfield? Each sofa from this company is handmade in Great Britain, offering authenticity and unmatched style.
Venetian Mirror
Mirrors are a staple in any home, as they’re perfect for adding light, depth, and visual appeal. Venetian mirrors originated in Murano, an island north of Venice. This mirror style was initially only available to royalty and the ultra-wealthy and remains a symbol of timeless luxury. We love this modern take on a Venetian mirror by Anthropologie.
Tufted Headboard
If you’re going for a cozy yet polished look, a tufted headboard could be an intuitive fit for your bedroom. Tufted headboards have been around for centuries and have effortlessly withstood the test of time. This headboard style is ideal for homeowners who want to create an inviting and comfortable environment and often pairs well with decorative pillows and a plush comforter. Need some inspiration? Bed Bath and Beyond has a plethora of options!
Chandelier
Excellent lighting is crucial in any home, and chandeliers are designed just for this purpose. Chandeliers are historical icons, from large brass versions in the Middle Ages to English glass finery in the 1700s. Whether you love the glamorous look of a traditional crystal chandelier or prefer something more modern, there’s an option to fit your aesthetic here.
A newly constructed home is a blank canvas to make your own. If you’re ready to bring your vision to life with timeless furniture and décor, we hope the ideas mentioned here inspire you. Still searching for the perfect place to put down roots? We know you’ll love life at Independence. Located in Elizabeth, Colorado, our conservation community offers small-town charm and sustainably built new homes. If you want to learn more about move-in-ready homes, please contact our team.
Spring and summer are beautiful here in Elbert County! If you’re eager to get outdoors and enjoy nature’s bounty, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re eager to catch some excitement at the rodeo or meander along peaceful trails, there are plenty of possibilities near Elizabeth, Colorado. Interested in adding some outdoor fun to your schedule? Here are a few of our favorite recommendations for these sunny seasons:
Explore Castlewood Canyon State Park
Castlewood Canyon State Park is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Elizabeth. Located in nearby Franktown, this park is the perfect destination for a day trip. In addition to grills, picnic tables, and canyon trails, this venue offers an up-close-and-personal look at Colorado history. Here, visitors can view the remains of the Castlewood Canyon Dam that burst in 1933.
Take Part in the Historic Elizabeth Stampede Rodeo
If you’re looking for some exhilaration, look no further than the historic Elizabeth Stampede Rodeo. This year, the big event takes place from June 6th-9th. There’s a ton of excitement to be had here, from PRCA rodeo performances to mutton bustin’. This gathering has been part of our town’s history for nearly a century, dating back to when it first started at Casey Jones Park in 1937.
Enjoy Fishing at Bingham Lake Park
While not technically located in Elbert County, it’s close enough! Bingham Lake Park is nestled in nearby Parker, Colorado, which is about a 15-minute drive from Elizabeth. This quiet getaway is a favorite for those who love to fish, as the lake is well-stocked with a variety of warm water game such as large-mouth bass, black crappie, channel catfish, and more. If you’re bringing along someone who isn’t into fishing, there’s a nice 1.25-mile trail loop and a picnic shelter.
Hike at Independence
If you can’t get enough of the great outdoors, nothing compares to having access to nature right from your own backyard. Our conservation community was planned with a deep appreciation of the land, and we’ve incorporated an impressive trail system for our residents’ enjoyment. Throughout the neighborhood, you’ll find trails that lead to bluffs and overlooks that offer stunning views.
Elbert County and the surrounding areas offer a plethora of opportunities for getting in touch with nature. The ideas highlighted here are ideal for exploring this spring and summer when the weather is just too nice to stay inside. If you’d like to learn more about the exceptional new homes and amenities at Independence, our team would love to connect. Please contact us to learn more about move-in ready homes!
Spring is in the air, and it’s a great time to start planning your garden! If you’re looking forward to enjoying your spacious new yard, flowers are an excellent way to brighten it up with a splash of color. Because of our semi-arid climate in Colorado, not all flowers will thrive here–so it’s important to plan your garden with care. If you’d like to plant perennials this year, here are some options that are well-suited to our state:
Rocky Mountain Columbine
Rocky Mountain Columbines will add a delightful burst of blue to your yard. They flourish in late spring to midsummer, and can grow up to two feet tall. They’re also deer-resistant and low-maintenance, making them the perfect addition for Colorado gardens. To grow Rocky Mountain Columbines, plant them in a spot that offers full sun or part-shade with well-drained soil.
Purple Coneflower
If you’re looking for a bold flower to plant, you’ll love the deep hues of the purple coneflower. This is another low-maintenance perennial that tends to do well here in Colorado. These flowers love sunshine and can be planted in full sun, but will also tolerate some shade. Find a sunny spot and some rich soil for them, and they’ll bloom wonderfully throughout summer and fall.
Russian Sage
Russian sage are beautiful herbaceous perennials that are virtually maintenance-free once they’re established. They bloom with delicate tubular flowers that are great attractors of hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. The colors are muted silvery lavender, which look lovely in any yard. Although this plant is generally very resilient, it needs some protection during cold snaps.
Shasta Daisy
Daisies are synonymous with cheer, and they’re perfect for adding some charm to your landscape. Shasta daisies are fast-spreading and bloom in late spring to early summer. Like other perennials mentioned here, shasta daisies do best with full sun and well-drained soil. When mature, clip some to enjoy in a vase on your table or countertop and bring the beauty indoors! With spring in full swing, are you ready to get outdoors and start tending to your garden? Whether you’re already an avid gardener or just getting started, the flowers highlighted here are great candidates for growing in our state. If you’re on the search for a home where you can put down roots, we welcome you to explore Independence. Located in Elizabeth, Colorado, our community offers small-town charm and ample opportunities to enjoy nature, including a community garden. To learn more about move-in ready homes, please contact our team.
Earth Day began on April 22, 1970 and has been celebrated on the same day each year since. If you’re interested in living more sustainably for the future of our Earth, there are many ways to take the first steps. Small actions can add up to big changes, and Earth Day is the perfect time to start thinking about your carbon footprint–and how to reduce it. Ready to make some simple changes to help the planet? Here are a few eco-friendly practices that are easy (and even fun) to implement:
Start Composting
If you’re not already composting, there’s no time like the present to get started! Composting is common here in Colorado, and it’s very simple to get the hang of. If you’re not familiar with this method of natural recycling yet, it involves keeping organic matter (such as food scraps and coffee grounds) that will decompose. The resulting compost is nutrient-rich and excellent for gardening. To start a backyard compost bin, you’ll just need a container with good airflow and a place in the yard with adequate sunlight. For a step-by-step guide to composting at home, check out these recommendations.
Go Paperless
One of the most important tenets of Earth Day is waste reduction, and going paperless is a great way to achieve this. Nearly all companies offer digital billing and statements now, so whenever you have some spare time, sit down and double check that you’re opted in for paperless communication. It just takes a few minutes to confirm your preferences, and you’ll be doing your part to reduce clutter and promote a healthier planet.
Invest in Reusable Food Containers
As recently as 10 years ago, sealable plastic bags were the ubiquitous choice for packing lunch on the go. Now, there are much better options for keeping food fresh. Brands such as (Re)Zip and Greater Goods have reinvented the resealable storage bag, which is perfect for everything from cereal to sandwiches. Instead of being a one-hit-wonder like single-use bags, these are both washable and durable.
Drink From a Reusable Cup
Hydration is important, and one of the biggest ways you can help the Earth is by ditching plastic water bottles. Stocking up on bottled water is convenient, but it only takes a few days to get used to the new habit of filling your reusable water bottle and carrying it with you wherever you go. If you want to go the extra mile, find a travel mug that you love and bring it to the coffee shop. For those latte-a-day folks, this simple swap can make a world of difference for the environment.
This Earth Day, show your commitment to our planet by making a few easy changes to your lifestyle. The eco-friendly practices highlighted here are some of our favorite ways to make a difference, and they’re nearly effortless to stick with. If you’ve been looking for a community that honors the Earth all year round, you’ve found the right place at Independence. As Colorado’s first conservation community, we have a deep appreciation for the land. Here, homes are built with the most energy-efficient materials possible, and our state-of-the-art water conservation program ensures that we conserve this precious resource. If you’re interested in learning more about our community environmental standards, please contact our team.
Springtime has arrived! If you’re ready to give your home a deep clean, now is a great time to freshen up your space and get rid of the clutter! Although spring cleaning is great in theory, it can be challenging to put into practice. Not sure where to start or what to focus on? We’ve got you covered! Here, we share a few of our favorite tips to help you get started and set yourself up for success.
Start With a Purge
Before you get into the nitty gritty of spring cleaning, it’s wise to start with an honest evaluation of your home. Like Marie Kondo suggests, take some time going through each room and determining what you really need–and what can go. If it’s not an active part of your daily life and it doesn’t hold sentimental value, then you’re probably better off parting with it. Cutting down on clutter is a great first step in creating a space that you love (and that’s easier to maintain).
Use Dishwashing Soap to Clean Under Large Appliances
Large appliances are notoriously difficult to clean under, so the crevices collect crumbs, dust, and other unwanted debris. Because these areas are so hard to reach, consider moving the appliances a few times a year to give the floors a good clean. Be careful with this endeavor, and bring in some helpers to give you a hand with unplugging and gently moving the appliances just far enough for clearance. Depending upon the condition of the floors, you may need to use dishwashing soap and hot water to remove built-up grime. For stubborn cooking grease and caked-on dirt, use a scraper.
Give Your Microwave Some Attention
Even if you’re diligent about covering food in the microwave, it’s very easy for splatters to escape. Because of its frequent use, the microwave is often one of the dirtiest parts of the home. If you want to show this appliance some love, add it to your spring cleaning list! To get an efficient clean, start by microwaving a cup of water to loosen debris. If you’re wanting to keep your microwave spotless all year round, consider investing in an AngryMama. This award-winning microwave cleaning device is great for effortlessly loosening grime using a mix of vinegar and water.
Optimize Entryway Space
The entryway sets the tone for how your home feels. If it’s cluttered with shoes, coats, and other belongings, just a few simple steps can help you optimize the space. If you don’t already have a key rack and shoe holder, these two space-savers are great. A key rack or multipurpose organizer is perfect for ensuring that keys and other items, like mail, have a home so they never get lost again. Having a dedicated place for shoes is also ideal, and will make a world of difference in how your entryway looks and functions.
Shred Old Documents and Digitize Important Ones
If your household is like many others, you may have piles of mail to sort through. Whether your documents accumulate on the countertops or in a junk drawer, your spring cleaning schedule should include shredding everything you don’t need. When you do come across a document you’d like to hang on to, digitize it for paperless filing. While you’re at it, take some time to set your preferences to paperless so you’ll receive fewer paper documents to keep up with in the future.
Spring in Colorado is a beautiful time of year, and leaves many homeowners feeling motivated for a fresh start. The tips shared here are a few of our favorites for livening up your space. If you’re interested in a fresh start, we invite you to explore our move-in ready homes in Elizabeth, Colorado. To learn more about our community and new construction homes, please contact our team.
Colorado is one of the top states in the nation when it comes to festivals. Whether you’re interested in concerts, cultural events, or some of our state’s more eccentric gatherings, there are plenty of options to enjoy! Ready to plan your schedule? Here’s an overview of festivals in 2024 throughout Colorful Colorado:
March 1-3: WinterWonderGrass Festival in Steamboat Springs
If you’re a fan of bluegrass, brews, or both, you won’t want to miss out on the WinterWonderGrass Festival in Steamboat Springs. From March 1-3, this beautiful resort town known for its champagne powder every ski season will welcome more than 25 bluegrass artists for a spirited, musical celebration. During the three-day event, you’ll also have the opportunity to sample craft beers from 20+ Colorado breweries! To purchase your tickets, head over to this site.
May 23-27: Mountainfilm in Telluride
For film aficionados, Mountainfilm in Telluride is a must. This renown documentary festival started in 1979, and has been debuting award winning films for artist enthusiasts, cinema entertainers and filmmakers ever since. At Mountainfilm, attendees can count on a wide variety of new feature films, shorts and animations created by talented storytellers and changemakers, as well as participate in engaging programs. Passes are available here.
May 31-June 1: Mike the Headless Chicken Festival in Fruita
Our state certainly has some quirks, and Mike the Headless Chicken Festival is one of the strangest (and most fun!) traditions around. This festival honors a chicken named Mike who managed to survive without a head for 18 months in the 1940s. After the story of Mike got out, his hometown of Fruita began to celebrate each year. In 2024, you can make the trek to Fruita from May 31-June 1 to participate in the festivities, including dancing to live music, participating in the 5K, and exploring food and artisan goods from dozens of vendors.
June 8-9: Highlands Art Festival in Denver
Colorado has a thriving artist community. Denver is especially well known for the arts, and there are excellent art festivals each year. If you’re looking for new artwork or simply want to meet local artists, make the short drive to Denver for the Highlands Art Festival. From June 8-9, the Highlands Masonic Lodge will showcase work by dozens of local artisans. Categories include painting, sculpture, metal, glass, mixed media, and more.
June 8-August 11: Colorado Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
If you appreciate the work of Shakespeare, you’ll want to hop over to Boulder to attend the Colorado Shakespeare Festival. For more than 60 seasons, this festival has delivered captivating performances by a professional theatre company in association with CU Boulder. This year, there are three plays to enjoy: Macbeth, The Merry Wives of Windsor, and Arden of Faversham. Macbeth is running from June 8-August 11, and The Merry Wives of Windsor will be offered July 6-August 11. Arden of Faversham is showing on July 28th only. Tickets are available here.
Regardless of your interests, chances are good that the state of Colorado offers a festival to celebrate. The gatherings highlighted here are just a quick glimpse of what’s going on in 2024, and there are many more to choose from. Located in Elizabeth, our new community offers a unique blend of small-town charm with excellent proximity to Denver and beyond. If you’d like to learn more about our move-in ready new homes, please contact our team.