It’s so easy to get too busy. We all have so much to do and not enough time to do it in. However, I think it’s really important to make time… for YOU! Easier said than done I’m sure! Continue reading “Don’t be too busy… you only need 5 minutes!”
Author: Barbara Stroud
Beach Sculpture by Mother Nature – Botany Bay (Edisto, SC)

Botany Bay – located in Edisto, SC is one of the most beautiful, unspoiled beaches that I’ve ever seen. From the moment you enter the Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management area you will be stunned by the beauty. Continue reading “Beach Sculpture by Mother Nature – Botany Bay (Edisto, SC)”
Backyard Palms
These wild palms pop up all on their own. They’re quite amazing – they grow quickly and provide wonderful shade not to mention the palm fronds are just beautiful – I love taking photos of them, especially with light shining from behind – look how it lights up the palm. Continue reading “Backyard Palms”
Our Sanctuary!
Today is Memorial Day, and many of us are outside enjoying our backyards – I wish I could pass along the scent of everything blooming right now. The lagustrums (against the back fence and bordering our yard), the Confederate Jasmine (to the left of the buoys) – Ohmygosh! Continue reading “Our Sanctuary!”
Pier at Brittlebank Park – Charleston, SC
Yesterday I wrote about visiting places right near you… well this is another shot of Brittlebank Park, located very close to us. I was surprised by just how nice it is! The gorgeous dock extends into the Ashley River. The covered area is a dream, off to the right is a floating dock. That funny building you see on the horizon – that’s the “round Holiday Inn” a landmark for many. Continue reading “Pier at Brittlebank Park – Charleston, SC”
Lowcountry Beauty Right Under Our Nose!

You know how it is… there are so many wonderful things to do right where you live, but have you done them? Many people have not, including us… So one day, after stopping at Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) we popped over to Brittlebank Park (literally across the street from DMV) situated on the water with stunning views to check it out – There is a wonderful dock with a covered pier for fishing – although situated where it can certainly get congested (especially during events), we went at a quiet time, one man fishing, and it was beautiful outside! Continue reading “Lowcountry Beauty Right Under Our Nose!”
Looking up!
Miraculous, right? It’s amazing how flowers can be so vibrant, and look at that velvety texture – stunning! I’m not sure what kind of flower this is (do you know?)…
A Canopy of Oak Tree Limbs
The Charleston, SC live oak trees are something to be treasured. In this photo, I shot upward. The limbs form a canopy over the road which is magnificent, especially on hot days! There is enough shade to walk laps (one time around the block is 0.8 miles) and for the most part stay out of direct sun. It also helps if you get caught in the rain, the trees shield you from regular rain – but not hard rain.
Bright Flowers Against Dark Grey…
I have such fun with flowers. If I receive flowers I will take an ungodly amount of photos. I love experimenting with different backdrops. I’m partial to a dark background or a white background, each can be stunning in their own way depending upon the subject.
A Quick Dinner Idea!
Grilled chicken and corn with a side of macaroni salad… A quick and easy dinner is ideal on a warm day, especially when the most time consuming part of it (macaroni salad) can be made in the morning. Continue reading “A Quick Dinner Idea!”
Featured Artist: Poppy Balser!

Poppy Balser. An artist that braves the harsh Canadian winters to paint what she loves – to the point of adding vodka to her painting water to keep it from freezing. Now THAT is an artist who loves to paint! Continue reading “Featured Artist: Poppy Balser!”
Lowcountry Marsh

I snapped this photo while walking – it’s so hard for me to not stop and take photos. I’m not sure my other half appreciates this trait in me, but it can’t be helped… So I snap away, then try to catch up only to stop again.
The marsh here in the Lowcountry is dramatic and beautiful. Always changing – low tide, high tide, grasses change, birds, sky and oh those trees! Continue reading “Lowcountry Marsh”
Featured Artist: Jeff Markowsky!

Jeff Markowsky, a plein air artist living in Savannah, GA. This painting… Wow, right? Look at all the layers of color in the sky. I am drawn to these bright colors.
Jeff has a great website be sure to check out not only his paintings (and don’t miss the Purchase tab, more great paintings!) His drawings are pretty fabulous too, but of course! Continue reading “Featured Artist: Jeff Markowsky!”
The Nantahala House Plan by Allison Ramsey Architects!
This is the Nantahala house plan by Allison Ramsey Architects – from the Blue Ridge Inspirations Book (Vol. 1). This plan is 2,438 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. I love how the front porch is situated at an angle – also love the deck along the side of the house! Wonderful lines on this house! Continue reading “The Nantahala House Plan by Allison Ramsey Architects!”









