Sharing Joy Every Day at Traditions at Camargo
At Traditions at Camargo, you’ll find a strong sense of community. A beautiful, tree-lined landscape and well-maintained properties complement our “small-town” charm. Part of that charm is due in part to a small, well-maintained, beautiful garden outside the building, maintained by Sara, “the plant lady”, a resident of the community located in Madeira, Ohio.
Meet Sara, The Plant Lady of Traditions at Camargo
When Sara moved into Traditions at Camargo in November 2019, the community was brand new—and so was the landscape. Having relocated from Virginia to be closer to her adult children and their families, Sara saw not only a fresh start but a blank canvas.
“There was so much bare dirt,” Sara said. “It was calling to me.”
A lifelong gardening enthusiast, Sara began transforming Traditions at Camargo's grounds one flower bed at a time. With the support of the Executive Director and the helping hands of her grandson, she tackled a particularly ambitious project during the height of the pandemic in 2021: a 15-foot by 50-foot garden, complete with a lamp post, nestled in a former section of the parking lot.
“It was what I could see from my window, and I wanted it to be beautiful—not just for me, but for everyone here.”
The Project
The early days of that project were quiet and solitary, spent working in the early morning or evening hours to stay safe during the COVID lockdown. But to Sara, those peaceful moments in the garden were more than just a hobby—they were a lifeline.
“Gardening kept me sane during that time. It gave me purpose. And now, it brings joy to others, too.”
Her flower garden, filled with deer-resistant perennials and vibrant containers of annuals, has become a beloved part of the community landscape. Residents often stop to thank her, and visitors smile as they pass by. Sara takes joy in knowing that something she loves can bring happiness to others.
“When I look out from my window or my deck, I’m grateful,” she says. “I created something beautiful that everyone can enjoy. That’s a blessing I’m happy to share.”
From Raising a Family to Raising a Garden
Sara’s love for gardening runs deep, rooted in a memory from years ago when she was a young mother. A neighbor once told her, “Honey, right now you’re raising babies. Someday you’ll raise flowers.” And she was right.
Now, with her “babies” grown into adults, Sara finds joy in raising flowers—not just for herself, but for those who may no longer be able to. Around the grounds, she has lovingly planted over 25 peony bushes, more than 250 spring bulbs, and a wide array of perennials.
Her advice to others? “If you dream it, find a way to make it happen. Never say never. Just do it.”
Traditions at Camargo is situated in a close-knit community with excellent schools, a convenient location, and a commitment to maintaining a small-town charm while embracing growth. Even the Madeira Senior Center is conveniently located adjacent to our community!
