Meet the Family

The Heartbeat of Talking Water

Behind every detail at Talking Water Nature Retreat is a family that poured their love, creativity, and energy into making this dream a reality. From DIY projects to managing day-to-day activities, get to know the people who made this special place possible.

James & Bobbie (Sonner) Such

Bobbie and James have called Chattanooga home since 2016, where they’ve planted roots and started their family. Parents to four lively young children, they balance the joys of raising kids with the passion of running Talking Water. Bobbie, a registered art therapist (currently on a creative hiatus), juggles managing the retreat while keeping the kids entertained. James, on the other hand, works at a local foundation repair company and loves tackling projects at the retreat whenever he gets the chance. If you reach out to Talking Water, it’s likely Bobbie who will be on the other end, ready to help make your stay unforgettable.

John & Karen Sonner

The Talking Water story truly began in the 1930s with Bobbie’s grandmother, Sandy Sonner, who grew up on Signal Mountain. Though life took Sandy away from Chattanooga, her legacy carried on through her son John and his wife Karen, who returned to the area with a love for the land and a youthful spirit. John, an IT professional, and Karen, a retired elementary school teacher with a green thumb, bring their semi-nomadic lifestyle and a deep commitment to the vision of Talking Water. Karen, in particular, is known as the “arborist” of the group, tending to the greenery that makes the retreat so special.

Ken Kelly Sonner

Ken, Bobbie’s brother and John & Karen’s son, is the family’s very own lumberjack—when he’s not sitting behind a desk, that is. Though his career keeps him busy, Ken loves taking breaks to handle the heavy lifting around the property and tend to his animals. The whole family is hoping that fate will bring him back to Tennessee soon, but for now, Ken remains a bit of a mystery, contributing his strength and skills from afar.

The Next Generation

Bobbie and James’s four young children are growing up with a deep connection to the land and the joy of hands-on work. They love getting involved in the family business, whether it’s swinging hammers, stacking wood, or helping out with the daily tasks that keep Talking Water running smoothly. Their energy and enthusiasm bring an extra layer of life to the retreat, making it a true family effort.

Merlin

Merlin, the youngest member of the team, is a lively pup who joined the family in December 2023. As a young dog, Merlin is still perfecting his manners but is always eager for attention from guests. He’s a regular at Talking Water, adding a bit of playful energy to the retreat.

Our Inspiration

The idea for Talking Water took root during family reunions in the 1990s, where countless memories were made in beautiful, offbeat settings.

These gatherings, filled with exploration, shared meals, and lively conversation, left a lasting impression on Bobbie. She loved seeing the joy on her relatives’ faces and creating her own adventures during these trips. Over time, the dream of creating a retreat where others could experience these light-hearted moments grew stronger.

Fueled by a passion for DIY construction and design and inspired by the stunning backdrop of Chattanooga’s mountains, our family set out to turn this dream into reality. We’ve built a place where guests can bring their own laughter, meals, and open spirits. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, we wholeheartedly welcome you to experience the magic of Talking Water.

Come Experience the Magic of Talking Water

Whether you’re staying in one of our cabins or exploring the grounds, we invite you to become part of our story. Let the natural beauty of Talking Water inspire you, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

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