A unique, cozy, and ever growing space dedicated to reflection and celebration of life’s moments sits nestled in the woods, surrounded by the energetic functions at the Plantation Commons and the many daily activities of those who live work and play at Reynolds Lake Oconee. A “hidden treasure” offering the still silence of the great pines that stand guard over it, the reflection garden provides a space for members to commemorate a much-loved memory, enjoy a moment of silence or simply reflect on the good things in life.
The Reflection Garden comes from a group of Reynolds Lake Oconee members who put their heads together to dream up an idea of a place to memorialize loved ones. Although planning started in the mid-nineties, the concept took some time to bloom. In 2003, their ideas became a reality when a committee was formed and the actual plans for construction of a reflection garden began.
Committee Chairperson Sharon Baum believes that the garden is a special place for a variety of reasons. “Indeed, people memorialize their loved ones but our garden celebrates various stages of life,” explains Baum. “We have bricks that celebrate anniversaries, achievements, births, pets, and an assortment of other ideas. One brick was placed in honor of one man’s accomplishment of hiking the Appalachian Trail, another dedicated as a 50th wedding anniversary gift.”
These engraved bricks grace the entrance of the garden with personal quotes, dedications, [Reynolds Lake Oconee Reflection Garden] and honors. Any resident can purchase a brick simply by filling out an application form located in any clubhouse, pro shop bulletin boards, RPOA office or at the neighboring Plantation Commons building.
The land for the garden was donated by Reynolds Lake Oconee and each year a new phase is added to make this area continue to blossom. So far, significant pieces include a welcoming wooden arbor at the entrance, a beautiful bronze bench, an elegant flowing river, outdoor lighting, as well as a dedicated pet area. “One of the things I am most proud of is the expanding concept of the original garden,” says Baum. “That each new piece to the garden is added annually only enhances the garden and allows it to evolve.”
The latest addition is the Tom Oliver Memorial Footbridge which was dedicated at the annual ribbon cutting ceremony and wine & cheese event. This year, members gathered in the garden to celebrate “Art in The Garden” complete with various area artists’ newest paintings. The event proved to be the perfect time to get acquainted with the Reflection Garden and the peace and stillness the area encourages.
