Faces of Bethesda: Judy & Jo

Judy Portnoy and Jo Durham have always considered themselves to be “green thumbs.” When they met at Bethesda Barclay House a few years ago, the women became fast friends, bonding over their love of gardening and the joys of being outside. So, it’s no surprise that by working together, they transformed the Barclay House courtyard from an uninspiring space into a warm and welcoming gathering place.

“I have an aesthetic eye and I love seeing pretty things,” says Jo. “When I got here, I saw there was an awning over the courtyard. I thought that would serve as a nice sitting area, so I started moving furniture and created a sitting space. Then, Judy brought in a banana tree, and we started bringing in pots to plant other things. And the rest is history!”

After securing permission from General Manager Jerry Ahillen and the Bethesda Barclay House team, Jo and Judy began working on the “new and improved” Barclay House courtyard. Now, visit on a warm summer day and you’re greeted by a multitude of colors and fresh smells. Begonias, petunias, purple sage and geraniums decorate the perimeter, complementing the sparkling blue water in the swimming pool. In a corner, herbs such as mint, basil, rosemary and oregano sprout.

“We’ve created a space that is enjoyed by everyone here — whether they look at it from their apartment window, or they sit outside to eat lunch or dinner,” says Jo.

“It works so well because it all flows and it is usable,” adds Judy.

This backyard oasis has certainly made an impact on Jo and Judy’s fellow residents. Some visit frequently to cut fresh herbs to include in homemade basil jelly and pesto. Kate Worland and other Barclay House friends have also pitched in to help keep the courtyard looking beautiful.

“It’s a win-win for everybody,” says Judy.

The ladies have a vision for what else they’d like to see in the courtyard one day—maybe making it an environment to attract hummingbirds or installing lattice for plants to grow vertically. Whatever the plan, they know how this new space makes people feel.

“I am thrilled to be able to add something here,” says Judy. “It is such a good feeling to know that we are creating something for everyone to love.”

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