Georgetown, bikes and brilliant sunshine

 Georgetown has the most beautiful tree lined streets ever! I'm not sure what they are called, but they must stay somewhat green all year. It's lovely riding through a canopy of trees like this on our bikes. Today was gorgeous out. slightly breezy and a bit chilly under the shade. However when the sun has its full effect on you it is toasty warm.

After a hot breakfast at the hotel, Evan and I headed down the coast a bit to McClellanville which is half- way between Georgetown and Charleston. In route we noticed a Historical park called Hampton Plantation. we made a mental note to stop by on the way back. McClellanville is a tight knit community with lovely homes and one place to eat. Small but quaint. Stopped a lady on our way out taking a walk and got the whole lowdown on the town. Her husband was a third or fourth generation resident. So enjoyed our chat with her.  Now on to the plantation.

I always thought cotton was the cash crop down here only to find out around here it was RICE. And a huge crop made plantation owners very wealthy. It must be because all the wet boggy areas. This particular plantation was the "home" of 350 slaves. They worked seven days a week, doing extremely difficult work in the hot sun, making their "masters" rich. Evan and I tried to immerse ourselves in what it must have been like to work under such conditions. We could not imagine how difficult it truly was. I respect their work ethic even if it was forced. Man, they worked hard. And I complain? 

This tree was actually planted by George Washington in 1791. It would take at least 6 people hand in hand to to completely circle this massive tree.

Spanish Moss hangs from most trees                                  Me sitting on the porch of Hampton Mansion

A beautiful Camellia in bloom made me think of all my beautiful granddaughters

Clinging Spanish moss

It's hard to believe this does not kill the tree. This tree will bloom and be beautiful as the spring progresses.

 

Winyah Bay and the waterway going up through Georgetown. All of those million $$ boats must travel up through there and into the inner-coastal waterway many docking in Georgetown.

As I write this we are looking for a place to stay in downtown Charleston. Gettin' sticker shocked big time, but we are going to pull the trigger and pretend we live the rich life. For two nights I will turn a blind eye to the cost and try to enjoy every minute of this place. It's called the King's Courtyard. What swayed me was the wine, cheese and hors d'oeuvres they serve at 5pm to guests. And a sip of sherry at 9. Ain't that hoity toity. But to be honest the other places in the area were totally outrageous. I have great respect for increments of $100 bills. So The King's Courtyard is our choice. Opulent, but not totally outrageous. The wine will help with the cost especially when I get to drink Evan's glass! Maybe I should break my rule and eat at Taco Bell tonight! Ya think???