Holidays away from family are weird. Luckily, I have some experience with it because I feel like it would’ve been a lot harder had this been my first time away. And, even though we got to video chat and all the amazing photos were shared with me so I felt like I was a part of it, it was still hard.
It is also fun for Dave and I to make new traditions and memories of our own. We knew that we’d want something special to do on Thanksgiving, so we weren’t totally bummed out about not being with family. So we Googled “what is happening in Charleston on Thanksgiving?” We found a three course dinner by Top Chef alum Jaime Lynch at a place called Church and Union and that was it. The space was amazing! They converted an old church and commissioned the writing of “The Art of War” on the ceiling by a local artist that took them three months to do! Was it anywhere near what we’re used to? No. Did we still enjoy the experience? Yes!
Thursday was Dave’s first day off since we started our adventure and it was absolutely lovely to have a relaxing morning. The epitome of “hurkle durkling” which is a phrase my dad taught me that means, staying in bed long after you should have got up.
It had been a busy couple of weeks after getting back from Cancun and then heading to Asheville for Dave’s birthday adventure, so it was a much welcomed time to just be. When we were in Asheville we were able to accomplish one of his goals of walking the Appalachian Trail. It was a little bit treacherous trying to get up to Max Patch Mountain and well worth the effort. The views from up there, albeit chilly, were absolutely stunning!
We have been in Charleston for a week so far and we love it. It has been a little rainy and damp but when the sun comes out it is absolutely glorious and still in the 60s. I love the architecture and style of Charleston with its cobblestone streets and gas lamps. Its history and old-world feel are slow and easy. I also appreciate its walkability which I know comes as a surprise to you!😉
I just finished up a weekend in Nashville with a dear friend as I write this. We saw live music by Shawn David at Tin Roof on Broadway, went to a Harry Potter pop up bar at Union Station, visited Dolly’s place the White Limozeen and had some incredible food at Biscuit Love. I’m so thankful for the time we have had together.
I have another close friend coming to visit on Saturday and we’re hoping to get to Gullah Grub, which was featured on Netflix’s show High on the Hog, on Sunday. Then I finally get to see my dad for the first time since we left on the 7th. We are planning on visiting the McLeod Plantation that was mentioned in the book “How the Word is Passed” by Clint Smith. It is notable for its effort to focus on the experience from the enslaved people’s perspective. As well as a trip to Fort Sumter, before we head to Florida for the Christmas holiday on the 16th. Dave has several aunts and uncles that live there and we’ll be able to see some old friends too.
I’m sure our time in Charleston will fly by so my goal is to continue to remain as intentional and present as possible. As I stay grounded in gratitude this post is in memory of my friend who passed away on Friday after a 16 month fight with cancer. Life is short, never miss an opportunity to tell the ones you love you love them. I love you and I appreciate you being on this journey with me!❤️
