Spring 2003 - 604 Josephine St., Central Austin

Fred Dalbey and his wife, Sonia Ralls, enjoy the pleasures of a large yard near the heart of the city.

Colorful, undulating beds surround the very drought-tolerant, mowed Buffalo grass in the front yard. The backyard has St. Augustine grass, the only variety that does well in their shady conditions.

Springtime wildflowers fill the yard with ever-changing color.

They also enjoy birdwatching and have created a habitat with a purple martin house and two ponds, shown above and below, to attract birds and wildlife.