After several days enjoying the charm of Decatur, Georgia, it was time to pack my belongings and journey toward Rome.
Rome, Georgia, that is the destination.
The WinShape Retreat Center is located there, and it was time to reunite with my spouse.
The bus departed the bustling Atlanta airport and soon traveled along less congested roads. Approximately two hours later, we entered the driveway.
This expansive estate, with a legacy spanning many years, serves not only as a retreat center but also as a college campus.
The lengthy driveway wound through a canopy of trees and rolling pastures, where herds of deer grazed.
The retreat center was unlike anything I had seen previously. It turns out, the property was once a fully operational dairy farm belonging to Berry College.
Substantial white brick structures surrounded a central courtyard.
These architect-designed buildings were constructed brick by brick by students many years ago. Each structure features at least one spire atop its roof.
I adored how small birds would perch up there and sing cheerful melodies…
Eventually, the college no longer utilized the dairy facility. Fortunately, the proprietor of the Chick-fil-A chain recognized this extraordinary property.
I am truly appreciative of their vision, resources, and the effort invested in transforming this location into what it is today.
There is an undeniable charm to a beautiful place that has been carefully and lovingly curated.
From the smallest decorative accents and furnishings,
to the meticulously planned architecture
and the dining areas (Hello, those stunning chandeliers!), it creates an ambiance that invites you to sit in a chair by the pond and take a deep, refreshing breath.
A sanctuary for refreshment and renewal.
That describes our experience perfectly. The environment was ideal, and the company we kept made it truly memorable.
As we navigated the winding driveway upon our departure,
we did so with hearts brimming with gratitude — knowing our time in Georgia was not yet finished.
Our next destination?
Savannah…
{PS As I researched the history of WinShape, I became engrossed in a wealth of fascinating information. You can explore the history of the retreat center here and the WinShape organization here.)
