In this hectic, urban, workaday world of ours we yearn for an oasis, a retreat where we can listen to nature, collect our thoughts and bring back some balance into our lives. We wish there was a place where we could take a leisurely walk amidst various types of foliage, tall and graceful trees, bubbling fountains, manicured lawns, rustic trails, gurgling brooks and perhaps suddenly end up at the water's edge of a quiet lake. Perhaps it would be utopian to expect this idyllic spot to be in our neck of the woods.

Believe it or not, there is such a paradise in the heart of Lakewood on the shores of Gravelly Lake itself. It is called Lakewold Gardens and it is indeed one of Lakewood’s hidden gems. In keeping with its mission, this ten acre historic nonprofit garden estate offers each visitor an inspirational experience through growth and learning in a profoundly unique setting. Its core values include Education and Environmental Awareness, Preservation, Community Commitment and Fiscal Stewardship.

In this day and age with the advent of the Web, you can whet your appetite by checking out the website at www.lakewoldgardens.org. But just as a picture is better than a thousand words, the visit itself will take your breath away.