When I was young, South Carolina represented family. Each year, our family would pile in our car, my two older brothers and I, along with our parents, and make the never-ending journey spanning 500+ miles and four states. We'd spend a week together doing fun family things and just enjoying the beach and salt air.
After I graduated college I made the decision to move to the Palmetto State and ended up raising my own family here. In time, that family I'd traveled to this magical place with as a child also decided to move to South Carolina.
For me, the number one reason my heart will always be in South Carolina is...
1. Family
I travel a lot for my job, but regardless of where I am my heart is always with my family.
2. The Beach!
I can get lost for hours in the lull and sound of the waves...
... and 3. I love the Salt Air in all seasons. It smells amazing.
...and 4. Walking along the beach and checking out all the cool houses is something I never grow tired of.
5. The mountains!
South Carolina has some of the most breath-taking vistas in the country. I love this photo of Table Rock, taken from across SC11.
South Carolina has so many things to do:
Like 6. the Balloons Over Anderson Festival each fall. This year's festival dates are Oct. 7-9, 2016. Go check it out if you're even remotely curious. You won't believe how spectacular a balloon festival is.
...and 7. Spoleto Festival USA in Charleston. This year's festival takes place from May 27 - June 12th in the Charleston area.
8. The food, OH...THE FOOD.
Starting with dishes like this whole crispy fried flounder at Coast Bar and Grill in Charleston.
and 9. Oyster Roasts! I've overstayed my welcome bellied up to many an oyster-shucking table stuffing my face with fresh clusters from the local rivers.
Plus, 10. we have the BEST BBQ in the world, like this plate from Scott's BBQ in Hemingway. It looks so tasty your mouth is watering, isn't it?
11. Outdoor Exploration
12. ...like Kayaking on Lake Jocassee in the Upstate. This beautiful man made lake is among my favorites in the Palmetto State.
...or 13. making my way to one of the state's spectacular waterfalls, like Raven Cliff Falls.
...and 14. exploring South Carolina's State Parks. Did you know we have a whopping 47 state parks? Firstly, we only have 46 counties. Secondly, that's enough to explore a new one nearly every weekend of the year!
15. Friends and Community
Friends and community are a big deal in the Palmetto State. There are countless opportunities to develop each of those here. That's not always the case in other places in the country. If you've ever lived anywhere else, then you know what I mean.
16. A country drive is never too far away
Even if you live in one of the big cities you know a road like this one is somewhere just outside of town.
Well, there you have it. Regardless of where I've traveled or lived, South Carolina will always have my heart.
What are some reasons your heart will always be in South Carolina?
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