If you spend even five minutes with Barbara Goldy, you’ll notice two things right away: she laughs easily, and she knows everyone. From the dining room to the art studio, Barbara embodies what life at The Reserve at Lone Tree is all about—connection, creativity, and living fully in every season of life.
We sat down with Barbara in her light-filled apartment overlooking RidgeGate to talk about her story, her move to The Reserve, and what she loves most about calling this place home.
Tell us a little about yourself. What should people know about Barbara Goldy?
Barbara: I’ve had a very happy life. I really have. I grew up in a big, loving family, and I’ve always felt incredibly fortunate. I worked in public relations for hotels for many years, started my career in television at NBC in New York, and eventually made my way to Colorado with my husband, Bill. He played professional baseball and then ended up working for the Denver Broncos.
You recently wrote a book. How did that come about?
Barbara: I did! During the pandemic, I gathered stories I had written over the years and decided to turn them into a book called Happy Hours. My maiden name is “Martini” and that is also my drink of choice. Our bartenders here always know my order at happy hour, so that title just fit.
I wanted my book to capture the moments money can’t buy—family, laughter, love. I surprised my family with it on my 80th birthday. Seeing their faces was one of the best moments of my life.
What led you and your husband to choose The Reserve at RidgeGate?
Barbara: Honestly? It was one and done. We weren’t even looking. We drove by, stopped out of curiosity, and walked into a little model setup before the building even existed. We stayed for over an hour and a half. When we got home, we realized we were ready to simplify—no more worrying about changing light bulbs in a house with soaring ceilings. We wanted a smaller space, a beautiful view, and a plan for the future.
Unfortunately, my husband passed away suddenly just a few months before we were to move in together. But I know he wanted me to be here, and I feel his presence.
I’m so sorry you weren’t able to move here together as planned. What do you think Bill would have liked about living here?
Barbara: Well, it feels like home. Everything on the walls is ours. All the furniture is ours. I paint, so I have my artwork displayed throughout. People are always surprised when they hear how customizable the apartments are. Some residents have wine refrigerators, some have fireplaces—everyone makes it their own.
And the windows! He would have loved our view. I look out every morning and watch the trains, the clouds, the moon—it’s life happening all around me…and I love it.
What surprised you most after moving in?
Barbara: The people. Truly. Nobody is alone here. The first night I walked into the dining room, someone immediately said, “Come sit with us.” That was it. I knew I was home.
And the staff—extraordinary. Many of them have worked in senior living for years. They know what they’re doing, and they genuinely care. It feels like living in a luxury hotel, but one where everyone knows your name.
Speaking of dining… residents rave about the food. What’s your take?
Barbara: Oh, it’s spectacular. The chefs are professionally trained. We start meals with a little chef’s appetizer, then warm bread baked daily, swirled butter in ramekins, beautifully plated entrées. You can have pizza from the oven or a full fine-dining experience. I cooked big meals for my family and others for decades. I don’t want to do that anymore—and now I don’t have to.
We get a monthly allotment of “credits” for our fine dining restaurant which serves things like lobster and dry-aged steaks. It rivals any of the best restaurants in the area.
What does a typical day at The Reserve look like for you?
Barbara: Every day is different, and that’s what I love. There are art classes in our beautiful art studio, meditation sessions, lectures, book clubs, movies, and worship circles. We have a full gym with a gorgeous indoor saltwater pool, a hot and dry sauna and private massage room.
We have several places to gather for cocktails daily, one with a penthouse view and one on the ground floor by the main entrance where we can listen to the self-playing grand piano or watch sports on TV.
The spaces here are so grand, and the amenities are breathtaking. Does it ever feel too “formal?”
Barbara: Not at all. Actually, we recently started a pajama breakfast because some women didn’t feel like getting dressed up early—so we said, “Let’s make pajamas the dress code.” Now even the men are joining in.
You can also have any meal delivered to your apartment if you prefer to dine alone. They make everything so easy here…just the way you want it.
How does transportation work if residents don’t drive?
Barbara: It’s wonderful. There’s complimentary valet transportation within the area, and they’ll take you anywhere you want to go—shopping, lunch, appointments. Sometimes you’re picked up in a Tesla, which feels very glamorous. There’s also a bus for outings to shows, restaurants, and events.
What would you tell someone considering independent living at The Reserve?
Barbara: Come for a drink. Or lunch. Listen to the conversations. You’ll hear the same thing over and over again—people are happy here. We call ourselves the “lucky ducks,” especially those of us who came early. This isn’t the end of anything. It’s a beginning.
Click here to learn more about The Reserve at Lone Tree Senior Living.
