Finding a Home in Denver

We spent Spring Break in Denver. We invited Gramma Jane and Grampa along and asked them to watch the kids the first half of the week while Michael and I looked for a place to live. Many people had suggested the new Stapleton neighborhood where the old airport used to be, and it sounds perfect. It is a walkable area with plenty of parks and good schools. It's right by the new hospital where Michael will work and isn't far from downtown Denver.

So on the first Sunday after church, we took a picnic lunch to Stapleton's Central Park to let the girls play with some kids that might be in their classes next year.

On Monday, Gramma Jane and Grampa took the kids to Denver's aquarium while Michael and I house-hunted. I had been researching houses in the area over the previous month and had discovered a few things. First, houses big enough for our family are rare on the rental market, but there was usually something available - briefly. Every 4-bedroom house I called about had been rented to the first person who looked at it! Secondly, with rentals, the owners typically want someone to move in now (or at least within two weeks); but we were looking three months in advance. At least I was able to determine what types of houses might be available and how much they should cost. Finally, I learned that there are three Stapleton elementary schools, and the first-round application (to select which one you wish to attend) ended January 31st. Second-round acceptance is granted in order of application, but I couldn't apply until we had proof of residency (such as a signed lease agreement). Stapleton residents are guaranteed a spot at one of the three schools, but which one would be determined by available space and not proximity to your house or requested school.

Just before we left for our trip, a 3-bedroom house appeared on Craigslist advertising availability in June! I scheduled a time to view the house. We were the first people to look at it, and we signed a lease. Hooray!

On Tuesday, we took the kids to see the house and then explored our new neighborhood. Our house is right next to the Greenway - a large park running the length of the neighborhood with walking/biking trails and various play and picnic areas. The trails lead to an elementary school less than half a mile away - without any streets to cross! Apparently the boy who currently lives in our house had soccer practice in the Greenway right by the house.

In the Greenway near our house is a Bouldering Playground with a rock wall as well as boulders to climb.

By the school, there is a Skate Park in the Greenway for skateboarders and such, although Bella thought it made a great slide.

Also, just three blocks from our house is one of four neighborhood pools and a playground. Can you spot the children's playhouse in one of the yards behind where Gramma Jane and Uncle Brian are swinging?

That afternoon, we took a tour of the hospital to see where Michael will work. His secretary, Jeanette, showed us around.

We are very excited about our upcoming move to Denver. I think we will love the area!