Through a series of scheduling malfunctions I have spent several weeks more than I anticipated in the Charleston area. Sounds like a travel slogan: Came for a week, stayed forever. Although I will have the benefit of moving on eventually, I am really enjoying this area. I like the architecture of the downtown area, the big trees with streams of moss hanging down, the Ashley River and the marina. 

Boating is really big in Charleston. With lots of rivers, islands and inlets it makes me wish I had one. Or better yet, a friend with a boat! As a Pisces I am bound to water and at one time debated RV vs Boat. For now I am content to watch the boats and enjoy the water from the shore. Something really cool: they have a ZipCar equivalent for boats. Boats when you need 'em, I guess.

As I'm writing this post I am at Edisto Island State Park on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean (a little spendy and no wifi but quite beautiful). The crash of the surf is in the background, a more-than-slight breeze is blowing the trees and shore vegetation and I am in one of those “all is right with the world” moments. I took a long walk on the beach today, enjoying the sand and water between my toes, the sound of the waves, birds, kids playing, all the sounds I didn't realize I missed so much. I found a couple of shells to send back to the grandbaby (who is now less of a baby than she was when I left) in hopes that she will play with them and think of her Nana. I have all the windows open and have decided I will leave them open and risk freezing or being devoured by bugs just to hear the ocean as I fall asleep tonight. A beautiful sunset is in the making although it is strange to have it behind me and not at sea. If I'm lucky I'll get up early and go for a walk on the beach at sunrise. Won't that be a change!? 

I'll most likely be in Charleston a few more weeks, I hope to make it to the aquarium and who knows, maybe even find a friend with a boat. It has been a long journey from my Pacific ocean to this spot. I sometimes can't believe I'm on the other side of the world – at least, my world.