Just before Thanksgiving, I was sent on a trip to Folly Beach, South Carolina. I've visited the 
Palmetto State before - with a quick work trip to Myrtle Beach - but this time something was different. I was so excited to head to the Charleston area and was really looking forward to exploring a city with so much charm and history! Plus, there is a moon on their flag, that qualifies the state for a few extra points in my book right away! Little did I know I'd fall in love with Folly and only make it into the city once.....
I arrived in the early afternoon, and after a 40 minute cab ride from the airport, settled into my beachfront hotel room. It was a beautiful day for getting out and about, so after admiring the view from my balcony one more time, I headed out for a stroll down the town's main street. Every shop and restaurant sports a beach theme - with a twist... Just take a peek at some of the places:
Throughout my visit, I enjoyed tasty 
margaritas at 
Rita's Seaside Grille, some yummy fried corn at Taco Boy, and during lunch one afternoon at Blu (the hotel's signature restaurant) I was entertained by the dolphins that decided to play just yards away in the ocean. Are you beginning to understand why I fell in love and hated to leave?! 
The Folly Beach Fishing Pier is a local landmark and th
e focus of many pictures by all who visit the little island. I found myself there at some point each day whether to shop for some local flare, immerse myself in the local culture, or to simply bask in the beauty of the setting sun. 
Another favorite landmark is The Morris Island Lighthouse. There
is such a peace that encompasses you when you step foot onto the sandy shores. Pieces of driftwood litter the coast, and the only sounds you hear are those of the waves crashing along the beach accompanied by the cries of the birds overhead. My only regret was not getting to visit the lighthouse more than once.
During dinner one night, my coworker and I were offered a
pair of tickets to the Alan Jackson concert in town. There was a couple at the hotel celebrating their anniversary and decided they'd rather stay on the beach than go into the city for the concert. Ashley and I jumped at the opportunity and soon found ourselves enjoying the vocals of one long-legged cowboy.On my day off, I decided to head into Charleston and take in the sights. In my typical whirlwind fashion, I 
tried to see as 
much as possible all in 
one day. 
I was not disappointed! The historic houses took my breath away. Each one I saw was more beautiful than the next and I kept envisioning the lives that have 
been lived within those walls. I could easily picture myself enjoying a mint julep on the porch while taking in the scenery of The Battery. There were churches scattered all across the city each one unique and gorgeous as only a church can be.
tried to see as 
much as possible all in 
one day. 
I was not disappointed! The historic houses took my breath away. Each one I saw was more beautiful than the next and I kept envisioning the lives that have 
been lived within those walls. I could easily picture myself enjoying a mint julep on the porch while taking in the scenery of The Battery. There were churches scattered all across the city each one unique and gorgeous as only a church can be. 
I was invited to the CD release party of the Taylor Festival Choir by one of the members of the 
choir who also happens to be an employee of my hotel. Having never been to a CD release party, let alone one for Celtic Christmas music, I was not sure what to expect, but since it was being held in a bar in Charleston, I knew I didn't want to miss the chance to find out. It turned out to be a very fun way to end my day of exploration!
choir who also happens to be an employee of my hotel. Having never been to a CD release party, let alone one for Celtic Christmas music, I was not sure what to expect, but since it was being held in a bar in Charleston, I knew I didn't want to miss the chance to find out. It turned out to be a very fun way to end my day of exploration!As I've said before, I relish the opportunities my job provides to see new 
places or revisit old ones. With each trip, I try to take part of that place with me when I leave. With all that I took away from Folly Beach, I actually find that I left part of my heart there too. Surprisingly, I'm okay with that :o)
places or revisit old ones. With each trip, I try to take part of that place with me when I leave. With all that I took away from Folly Beach, I actually find that I left part of my heart there too. Surprisingly, I'm okay with that :o)
