Places to visit in and around Charleston, SC…

Crossing the Ashley River Bridge | Charleston, SC

Charleston, SC – with so many alluring vistas – from natural parks to oceanfront beaches – marshes and wildlife – stunning flora and wonderful scents wafting through the air – it’s a magical place to be! I feel fortunate to live in such a beautiful place that has so much to offer. I’ll give you a few of my favorites (in case you’ve never visited Charleston before)…

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Because everyone needs a laugh…

This is Charlie, a 13 year old Jack Russell Terrier. He can be as wild as the day we picked him up, although he naps a wee bit more, but not much! I happen to look up and see his ear standing up, grabbed my phone and snapped a photo. Haha…

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A Big Birthday + “The Realization”!

Yikes, this one is a biggie…

Let me start by saying – I’ve added another year to my life (thank goodness) – It’s crazy, because I feel like I did in my 20’s with the added bonus of wisdom, earned throughout the years. It’s pretty cool to be an age that seems impossible, yet it is. Yet, this story reads like something on Seinfeld (from those of you who watched that TV series from 1989-1998).

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Featured Artist: Wilfred Spoon – Whimsical Realism at its finest!

Egret with Haliconia 60×48″ Oil/Canvas

Wilfred Spoon. Be still my heart. I would describe his paintings as “whimsical realism” with the perfect amount of creativity. Wilfred’s paintings are happy, different, full of nature and showcase this part of the country so well. This painting can really elevate a space!

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S i m p l y E l e g a n t

What a thoughtful gift to drop off – a nice surprise. As y’all know, I happen to LOVE flowers of all kinds, and orchids are so special. Most require minimum care (at least in my experience) and will bloom again in time (have patience!) – A stunning combo of colors between the leaves and the flowers. This is a small orchid, so I’m giving it ice chips…

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22348 Garage Plan by Allison Ramsey Architects!

Garage Plan 22348 by Allison Ramsay Architects

Garages are all the rage right now. Beautiful garages are being built and they’re stunning! Some offer living space up and down (depends on zoning restrictions in your area) and some have garage space, like this plan, with living space above. Nice if you have someone who wants to stay with you for an extended period, or even to use as a guest room and studio space. Also nice if you’re renovating, build the garage first, then move into it until the house is built or renovated. What a sharp look this plan has!

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Baked Eggplant Parmesan – So delish!

This Eggplant Parmesan tastes like lasagna minus the pasta and a good bit of the fat

I have an Eggplant Parmesan recipe that my mom made (recipe from a Detroit cookbook) – a winner, but I wanted to try a version without frying the eggplant. I found one – everything about this dish was so good, and made a full 9×13″ pan. The dish was hearty, so I made a cucumbers/Greek yogurt side dish – an all time summer favorite.

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Alison Hill – [Featured Artist]

Alison Hill in her studio on Monhegan Island

Let me start by saying… we haven’t been to Monhegan in a while. This photo was taken several years ago in Alison Hill’s amazing studio. Those of you who know Alison, love her – she’s a kind hearted, soft spoken, amazing artist. Her work is incredible and a visit to her studio is a “must do” when you’re on the island. (She’s actually one of the reasons we originally visited Monhegan) – Alison is out painting every single day – her dedication is admirable.

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Who Knew? So many pretty berries on a Yew!

Yew with berries

We were out on a walk, phone in my pocket and as we walked by this Yew, the berries hanging over the fence in a multitude of colors was fascinating to me. I don’t recall seeing all these different colored berries in the past. Sometimes it’s the little things that really stand out. #beautiful

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Furniture moving can make your space brand new!

This is a snippet of the (original) living room that was previously the dining room… last week we moved the rooms around again – changed the furniture – and it’s like new! This is now the living room again. It’s so refreshing to walk into a space that has been completely transformed. This shot mainly showcases the view of the gorgeous trees and oh! The shadow on the wall from the sunlight on the sheepskin – Love it! Nothing like shopping your own home to find treasures and furniture, paintings etc. to change your views!

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(Call) 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Please spread the word!

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, substance abuse, or suicide crisis – please reach out to people who can help you.

CALL:

988 OR 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

(Yes, 988 – only 3 digits, this is new as of July!) OR you can call the original phone number for the Suicide Prevention Hotline, it will still be good as well.

CHAT:

If you feel more comfortable chatting with someone who can help: click HERE for the link that takes you directly to the chat.

Visit their website: 988lifeline.org

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By now, too many of us know someone who was such a force of nature, loved by all – and then they were gone. Perhaps if we can all pass this information along, more lives can be saved. If you’re having any kind of mental struggle, addiction or thoughts of suicide – please STOP what you are doing and make this call. Sometimes you just need to speak to someone, and it may help to speak to someone you don’t know. WHAT IF, this person you speak to understands what you’re going through and made it through to the other side? It’s worth a try, right?

The world is difficult right now, but there ARE good people out there who do want to help, regardless of your situation. They aren’t here to judge you, they’re here to listen and guide you.

You are worth it. You are valuable – no matter what’s going on, these trained people can help lead you to a better life. Please. Do it. #makethatcall

SUICIDE & CRISIS HOTLINE LINKS (so much valuable information):

Website: https://988lifeline.org

Chat: https://988lifeline.org/chat/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/988lifeline/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/988Lifeline

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/988lifeline/

I never ask this, but:

PLEASE SHARE THIS POST however you can… thank you!

👩‍💻 #inmemoryofmyfriendgeorge

Cherau Residence House Plan by Lake + Land Studio!

Cherau Residence House Plan by Lake + Land Studio

What an amazing house plan! So different – and so perfect, especially if you’re situated on the water, but even if you’re not – it will still be fabulous. I love the porches (there is a LOT of living to be done on these magnificent porches!). Note the outdoor kitchen, and oh… a room I’m super thrilled about…

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