Inspired by the same views that inspired “America the Beautiful,” Charlie and Kelly Gerszewski wanted a break from city living. For them, the crowded streets and long commutes of Houston could not compete with the open space and long views of the mountains. So they sold properties in Texas, sold their local business, and made the move to Colorado. The next task was housing.

When their realtor was contacted by HGTV’s Log Cabin Living, the Gerszewskis were game to step in front of the camera. For three 12-hour days, they toured properties in the mountains outside of Colorado Springs, including the oldest home in Cascade, a new build in Woodland Park and a cabin with acreage. “We knew we wanted a house that was very representative of Colorado,” Kelly says, “something different than what we had.”

Settling in west Woodland Park, the family is now surrounded by rolling meadows, a sprinkling of neighbors and a handful of horses. They buy and develop real estate as SoCo Builders, and raise their two young children where they can kayak, ski, and hike away from the heat and humidity of Texas.

“More than anything, it was the lifestyle change that we needed,” Kelly says. “We just needed a slower pace. We’re still really busy, but we’re so mentally calmed down living here—the fact that it’s scenic and beautiful.”

Now they can view stately Pikes Peak from their front door … and their living room … and their balcony that spans the width of their cabin style house … and their fire pit … and their master bedroom. The Gerszewskis happily admit that theirs is not a palatial dwelling, but it’s one that has fulfilled their dreams of Colorado living. And one thing’s for sure: It’s a long way from Houston.

How to Watch

HGTV’s Log Cabin Living featuring the Gerszewskis (episode “Colorado Dream Cabin”) airs originally on March 17.