Turning into the main drive is turning into a community in every sense of the word, in that retail, recreational, and community space are present. The entire environment says, "community." Streetscaping, landscaping all set the tone of a vital community of a neighborhood quality. Building on, and exploiting the rural nature of the setting, there is energy but at the same time, pastoral quiet. Walking trails crisscross the community with kiosk activities abounding. Perhaps, horse trails are not far removed from the walking trails. Golf carts and bikes are the preferred in-community transport such that retail spaces and other amenities provide parking areas for both. The Day Spa and Bistro share space with casual gathering areas ideal for concerts and quiet conversation.

Further in, a trip through the Oaks yields access to Wellness and Campus Life Community Center as well as the Life Long Learning Center. Options of living include apartments, single family homes, and group homes situated within a natural setting. The sense is of Green rather than overwhelming buildings and asphalt. The scale of the building is consistent with setting among natural growth.

The river initiates the Interpretive Nature Trail along which residents over informative tours. A class of canoeing and kayaking is taking place in the canals. Boy scouts are camping in one of the campsites available in the community. Couples pedal boats along and chat with others along the bank.

Others are working in the orchard while others pick herbs and vegetables from the field. The vineyard is almost ready to harvest and move to the winery. The special needs folks and the autistic children are walking the horses and giving rides. Residents give instruction and encourage the children.

The bus arrives, bringing Orangeburg community folks out to ball room dancing and bridge. Another bus takes residents to work in the shelter for the homeless and to the PACE site for volunteer service there.

A community group is meeting to decide what will be the major charitable projects for the coming year and to review the foundation information. Another is looking at new solar technology to be used in the community. Another is planning gatherings and outings, cruises and bocce ball tournaments.

There is life and laughter. There is caring and encouragement. It is an inclusive community seeking to be community. There is the reality of aging and the certainty of death. It will be honored and approached confidently in the company of friends. In the company of God.