The Lowcountry is Alright!
Images - Top L-R Turtles in backyard, a map in National African American Musuem in Charleston, Gator in our backyard, Me along the waterfront downtown, Fried fish from a church member,
Many of you know that I moved from the Midwest to the South - Charleston, South Carolina – the Lowcountry.
It’s been six months, but it feels longer. I love it.
At first, I thought the feelings were because I was back with my husband after we had lived apart for six months. Yep, that was hard.
As I become acclimated to my new home, I appreciate what this city has to offer.
In this growing city, southern hospitality is on full display. My church family extends a welcome to me with a genuine warmth and a line dancing crew has welcomed me to dance with them as though I belong with them. I’ve had several occasions to meet people and have made connections I hope will grow in the future.
The pace of this region is slower than the Midwest. In Ohio, I was a fast walker but never knew it until someone commented on my walk saying, “Where are you going in such a hurry?” To me I’m just walking. When in a conversation, I would finish your sentence in excitement, knowing what you were going to say. In the south, I’ve learned to pause, listen, and wait for the person to finish before responding - if a response was forthcoming. I’m sure interrupting may come across as rude.
Another feature of Charleston is the history and culture. I love listening to southern soul music on radio station 99.7 FM. Much of what they play, I’ve never heard on Columbus, Ohio radio. Even the music in worship feels and sounds different; sounds reflective of African rooted rhythms. Walking the streets downtown, I feel a sense of sadness and pride knowing that this city was built on free labor from enslaved Africans years ago. The cuisine, architecture and culture make this city a top tourist destination.
And let’s not forget the cuisine. NO WORDS – oysters on a half shelf shell from Pearlz, fried fish from Marvin’s, ribeye steak from Hall’s, etc. I am a foodie. I will spend money on good food and a great dining experience before going to Nordstrom for a shopping spree. FYI, no Nordstrom in Charleston! Who knew? The compromise is a Nordstrom Rack.
I know six months any place is like a honeymoon phase, but I am just going to embrace the southern life. Those living here may say, “She ain’t lived through the summer heat yet.”
I hear you and I know. I went for a walk yesterday morning and it felt like 90 degrees at 10:00 am!
I haven’t gotten used to the heat at 10:00 am in the morning, the rain that comes fast and furious with no warning, or the alligator in my back yard, but I will learn how to take it all in.
So. as I embrace my new home, I will continue to listen and learn about my new environment as I settle into my new life.
