About Jefferson County, CO

There's not much to look at in high plains home gardens during the winter months, unless gardeners specifically make it happen.

I suspect most gardeners here between Denver and Boulder just put the gardens out of their minds for the winter months. But those of us who would love to see something green and alive even when it's brrrrrrrrr-cold outside work harder at it.

If you feel like I do, you need to know about Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis). Low-growing, shade-loving plants that bloom in the very early spring here between Denver and Boulder. They look great, even in January after being buring under snow multiple times.

I'm going to plant more Lenten rose in this area, so there will be a whole area of green instead of the winter brown so prevalent around here.

The blooms of Lenten Rose are quite exotic, but not always easy to see. They tend to face downward and hide under under the large leaves. If you shop around for Lenten Rose, try to find varities that have upward-facing blooms.

Hardiness zones 4-7. Don't let anyone graze on your Lenten Rose, as they are toxic (but the good news is - they're 'deer proof'!). See lots of pictures of Lenten Rose here. As with all perennial plants, try to buy from growers in a zone similar to yours.

I was perusing online articles, and found one written about Lenten Rose by a southern gardener (Grumpy Gardener - his blog is fun to read!), called Do You Know the Secret to Lenten Rose?Grumpy Gardener was told the secret to Lenten Rose is lime.

He goes on to say his Lenten Rose do fine without adding lime, but the main reason I'm mentioning this is to say that the soil here between Denver and Boulder is less acidic than most, so you shouldn't need to add lime. But if your Lenten Rose aren't doing well - and you have them planted in light shade - check the pH of your soil.

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Copyright © 2012 Joetta Fort

This is the first year for this event, so come on out and make it a success! The following was taken directly from the Olde Town Chronicle. You can get the Chronicle in your own inbox, via info@oldetownarvada.org.

Enjoy free parking in Olde Town Arvada! Click for an Olde Town parking map.

St Patrick's Day Celebration in Olde Town Arvada Saturday, March 17th, 2012 Historic Olde Two Arvada is starting a new signature event in our community to celebrate St Patrick's Day in Olde Town. We want to bring new eyes and foot traffic into our vibrant district and what a great day to do so. We hope to have another great destination for folks to have a fun, family event in the Western Suburbs of Denver. This event will be held on Grandview Ave between Olde Wadsworth and Webster from 1pm-6pm with live bands, arts/crafts booths, food booths, kids entertainment, and beer/wine sales. The street will be closed to traffic to make this a fun and safe event for all. We know the Olde Town St Patrick's Day Street Fair will become a signature event for our growing Main Street Community. Please check our website andFacebook page for any new information regarding this exciting event.

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1920’s Dance in Golden

Many people would agree that the 1920’s were a golden age; the music, the dance moves, the movie stars, the clothing. Take a trip back to simpler times this weekend at the Golden Gate Grange’s Prohibition Dance! Located off of Golden Gate Canyon Rd, Golden Gate Grange is sponsoring a roaring, 1920’s themed dance on Saturday, February 11^th from 8 to 10pm.

You and your valentine will dance to the lovely sounds of the Prohibition Six Jazz Band. The jazz and swing songs will get your and yours in the mood to show off your buckle shoes as you dance the Charleston. The Six have been playing vintage jazz and swing of the 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s for over 30 years! Don’t worry if you can’t dance; the Prohibition Six Jazz Band is a well-oiled machine that should not be missed. After a round or two on the dance floor, swing by the refreshments to catch your breath.

Show your Valentine a good time by coming to the Golden Gate Grange Prohibition Dance this weekend, outside of downtown Golden. Advanced dance tickets are $10 or you can pick up tickets the night of the dance for $12.50. Period clothing is optional but expect to see some Golden-ites busting out their pin curls, rolled down stockings, spats, and top hats!

25201 Golden Gate Canyon Rd, Golden 303 239-6789 or 303 277-1933

1920’s Dance in Golden

One of the best complexes for Littleton Townhomes in the south west Littleton area is the Dakota Station Townhomes neighborhood. Our team has helped numerous buyers and sellers in this complex over the years. Its location is ideal; close to c-470, Chatfield State park and offering a gorgeous view of the foothills.

HUD just released a new listing in the neighborhood for a 2 bedroom, 3 bath home. It has nearly 1,000 square feet and is priced at just $91,000. In addtion, like all other Denver HUD homes, this unit qualifies for the HUD $100 down payment program.

If you're looking at Littleton townhomes, this is definitely a home you'll want to put on your list. Give us a call today at 303-726-1874 to schedule a time to see it.

Dakota Station Townhomes:

HUD Owned Home 9641 w chatfield ave littleton 80128 $91,000.00 est $

Beds: 2 Fin Sq Ft: 998 Baths: 3 Year: 1986 # of Photos Avail: 5 V-tour Available: Yes MLS #: 1064811 Listing Office: alpine real estate

Broker Remarks: this home may qualify for the $100 down payment program, this one is a beauty, great for first time buyer, 2 master bedr... more... Disclosures

If you are interested in Littleton foreclosures or other Littleton homes for sale, give our team of experts a call at 303-726-1874.

Valentines Day in Golden

Valentines Day is fast approaching! Don’t expect the simple Valentines Day box of chocolates or a boring Valentines dinner for two. We have you covered because Golden has many great places to celebrate friends and family. Golden is also a great town to meet up with new friends or old friends during the holiday. Who knows, you may even a new Valentine of your own!

Start your Valentines Day off right by getting outside! Golden has dog parks, city parks, paths, and more to get you out into the sunshine and fresh air. Handholding and casual strolling is permitted. Next, check out the Valentines Day deals in downtown Golden. You and your special someone could grab a cup of coffee, pop into your favorite shop, or pick up necessities for the rest of the day. If you are looking for a gift for him, check out the Coors Brewery, Bent Gate, or Big Ring Cycles. For her try Red Wagon, Fleur-De-Lis, or Bloom Boutique. The Golden Library will be having their Sweetheart Book Sale too!

Get relaxed! Golden is home to a variety of spas so you can pamper yourself or someone you love. In the evening, why not stop into Art on the Brix to get creative? Have a glass of wine while you learn to paint your Valentine! If you are musically inclined, stop by the Buffalo Rose for an open mic night with Led By Design. Find your center together at the Heart of Oneness center for Buddhist meditation. If you are still in the mood for a Valentines Day dinner, restaurants around town will be hosting special deals. Finally, if you are looking for the ultimate luxuries check in with Table Mountain Inn or the Golden Hotel for Valentines day specials for two. Make plans for Valentines Day in Golden today!

Valentines Day in Golden