My Happy Place

December 3, 2015

If I had to choose a letter to best describe the events of last weekend it would be the letter “S”. Since my sensationally stellar weekend included sand, sun, surf, starfish, shorts, singing, and a stage. Oh, and flip flops. Technically flip flops end in‘s’ making it arguably suitable because I’ll wager you’ve never heard anyone say, “Let me just grab my flip flop.” Flop falls flat, doesn’t it?

Speaking of flip flops, they just happen to be the perfect accessory for a spectacularly sunny seaside weekend. Thanksgiving was warm, but I was going coastal Friday and the weather promised to be even balmier in Charleston. Dusting off my flip flops I have to admit, they felt a little weird at first. But hey, I was about to get tropical…my favorite destination and flip flops were essential.

Arriving just after dusk, we were greeted by a serenely star filled sky. Sigh. It felt surreal as we unloaded and carried everything up the steep driveway into the house. The salty air was calm and smelled divine. Even though the night air was warm I had goose bumps thinking about the beach but that would have to wait…first I was being called upon to lift one end of the love seat. Yikes, did I mention the driveway was very steep?

The next morning was busy shopping for supplies. Then when I thought I couldn’t possibly wait any longer we were off to Isle of Palms beach. Awe struck every time I’m beaching it I can’t help but drool over the exquisite oleander and various palms. How fabulous for home landscaping!

Charleston sunset

Of course, I’m always mesmerized by the sheer magnitude of the ocean too. It’s extraordinary. Walking the beach the tide was so far out we stood under the pier in about the same spot sharks swim under the Myrtle Beach pier because fish parts are thrown down to them. Looking up the water line was…well, way above our heads. Mind-blowing to think massive fish would inhabit that same location when the tide came in. Um…moving right along…

…the tide pools looked more inviting and shallow anyway. As much as I could sell everything tomorrow and move to the beach, I’m happiest with sand between my toes and the sound of waves in my ears not technically in the water. Sigh...it’s my happy place. However, dancing was on the agenda later that evening and we needed to get ready; but first, a quick stop to examine a starfish and teeny tiny hermit crabs in a makeshift moat along the way. I’m always amazed and intrigued by the small wonders of this world.

Such a picturesque sunset driving back across the bridge after eating scrumptious seafood waterside while photographing the pelicans, however, it was almost time for my other happy place…the dance floor. Later that evening we arrived at the Elks Lodge enthusiastically because the band was the same band that played at Halloween and they remembered us as Ginger and Skipper. How wild is that? Plus, the folks at our table were extremely friendly. Goodness, everyone we’d met thus far was very cordial. In fact, Charleston is listed as one of the most hospitable cities in the U.S. Now that is something to take pride in. The oldest city in South Carolina, it was originally called Charles Town in 1670 after King Charles II of England. (A little known fact I googled.)

Anyway, as soon as the band started to play we hit the dance floor. Boogying to the beat I was surprised by an unexpected turn of events. One of the band members took me by the arm and escorted me to the stage (front and center) and planted me in front of a mic. Dickens, if you’ve ever seen me dance I’m usually singing too. Therefore, me being me; I just kept dancing as I belted out, “Celebrate good times. Come on!” Shoot, I’ve always said, “Don’t get me in front of a mic.” (Someone should have warned the band.)

One couple at our table said, “Boy, she sure looks like she belongs up there.”

“Yeah, she’s in her element.” Skipper said, and I was. Of course, the next morning I was singing a different tune. Went sort of like “Ow! Ouch! Ow!” And that was just going down the stairs! Did I mention it was a very steep driveway?

Can you imagine…being in your happy place?

Smile, it looks soooo good on you!

CanYouImagine@charter.net

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