the Path of Life
Bloom and Grow Garden Society was founded in the summer of
1997, and quickly grew in membership to almost 150 members.
The purpose of the organization was not only to share knowledge
and garden ideas, but also to become involved with community
beautification projects.
One of Bloom and Grow Garden Society’s most ambitious project
is “The Path of Life” located at the Chapin Station on the West
Orange Trail. Orange County Parks and Recreation donated a
parcel of land which the garden club, along with Trail Friends,
has developed and transformed into a beautiful and tranquil
setting with lovely, engraved brick pathways meandering through
an area of magnificent live oaks. Phase I of the garden project
was completed in 1999. With the completion of Phase II in
March of 2002, another brick walkway was added along with
the planting of over 1400 plants and trees. A beautiful rock pond
with a cascading waterway was constructed. This area is graced
by two bronze herons. Benches have been installed throughout
the pathway for people to sit and enjoy the surrounding garden.
The Bloom and Grow Garden Society has received national
recognition for this project. Through the National Garden
Society, they were awarded the prestigious Kellogg Award for the
nation’s best new public garden area developed in 2000. In 2002,
the garden club was honored again by receiving a P.E.T.A.L.S.
(Protect the Environment Through Action, Learning and Service)
grant for the completion of Phase II. This grant is sponsored by
Shell Oil Company.
Over the past several years, The Path of Life has served the
community in many ways. Numerous weddings and parties
have been conducted in this lovely area. People throughout the
community have come to relax, meditate and stroll through the
beautiful gardens.
Engraved bricks can still be purchased, and all donations and
proceeds go back into the maintenance of The Path of Life. The
engraved bricks sell for $30.00 each. This is a unique opportunity
for members of our community to honor friends, relatives or
someone special in their life.
Directions to The Path of Life : Take the 429 North (either from
the Turnpike or Highway 50 (just East of Winter Garden) and
Exit on Plant Street. Go West on Plant St to Crown Point Springs
Rd., Turn right. Go to Crown Point Cross Rds and turn left. Go
past the 4-way stop sign and turn right into the Chapin Station
Park. Follow the sidewalk past the trailhead to The Path of Life.
Enjoy !!!
For more information, please call 407-415-7493 or 4jackiebrown@
gmail.com
APRIL 2015
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WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE
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49