I can spend hours wasting on Wikipedia. There is endless information in the world, and what amazes me even more is that our ancestors didn’t have access in their whole lives to the information we can browse in one hour.
But did you know our own South has versions of our own Wikis?
Many of the states such as Alabama, Georgia, and Virginia have their own encyclopedia.
So the next time you’ve got a little time to waste, learn a little bit about our own Southern backyard.
Many of my favorite blogs post regular roundups of what they’re loving that week or month. I always get excited about lists, so we thought we’d throw up a few of the things we’re loving around here from time to time. What’s caught two Southern girls’ eyes lately? Check it out…
Music
Portable record player (plus a bonus: Saturdays scouring music stores for some Elvis on vinyl)
Deep Roots album by Steven Curtis Chapman — Bluegrass meets favorite hymns. Mr. SIT and I discovered this gem from one of my favorite artists at Cracker Barrel one morning, and it’s been our going-to-church music on Sundays ever since. (And I found this Wall Street Journal article amusing: Cracker Barrel is “the Starbucks of Country Music.”)
Civil Wars new album
Carry the Fire song by Andrew Peterson
Reads
The Road by Cormac McCarthy — And speaking of “carrying the fire,” this book is one of the best I’ve read this year. It has haunted my thoughts in a wonderful way ever since.
All of Ann Patchett’s books — Ann Patchett is not exactly a well-kept secret. I had read Bel Canto a few years ago, but I picked up another of her novels, and then voraciously read everything she’s written within a few months. I think I loved State of Wonder best of all, but it’s a hard decision. She has a way with language and stories. And, she’s a Nashvillian (Nashvilitte?).
Modern Mrs. Darcy blog — Actually, one of the aforementioned bloggers that regularly gives readers a peek into what she’s into is this Louisville gal — The Modern Mrs. Darcy. This is one of those blogs that I’m always thrilled to see pop up with a new entry on my Feedly. I always find some gracious inspiration, a great read, or something new to me!
Pretties
These cotton stems I found at Target — A bit of rustic glamour added to my decor as an homage to my favorite Southern crop.
WoodWick brand candle — I love my gas fireplace. It’s so convenient to turn on in the mornings once Mr. SIT is off to work, but I miss that crackling wood sound. And the WoodWick brand is made in Virginia … some of the other brands don’t make that crackle.
Click image for source {via Saveur}
Eats
Sweet Potatoes with Butter and Brown Sugar — I cannot get enough of these lately. For breakfast, for dessert — pure deliciousness.
Learning
Rosetta Stone — Remember my New Year’s Resolution to “values timeblock“? Well, one of the items I came up with to be the kind of person I wanted to be, was to speak another language. Spanish is so practical. Over seven percent of the world speaks it, not to mention a certain mister with whom I reside. I’ve been dabbling in it for a while now, but I’m redoubling my efforts as the young people go back to school. Something about September always makes me want to learn.
U.S. Constitution — I’ve taken a new interest in the very founding document of our great nation. I’ve had the privilege of hearing a Constitutional expert, Bob Menges, in a 12-week study at our church and it has been hugely enlightening. There is so much about the framing of this rule of law that I did not know, and it effects each one of us each day of our lives. If you’d like to experience his course on our nation’s charter, he has all the sessions available (for free) on his website.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Norfolk, VA
Travel
Virginia Beach, Virginia — I got to tag along with Mr. SIT on a work trip last month to the Virginia Beach-Norfolk area. Norfolk gets a bad rep as a drab military town, but I found it is rich with history and art and great food. I ran around town dashing to the renowned Chrysler Museum satellite sites, St. Paul’s Church to see a Revolutionary-war era cannonball stuck in its brick wall, and feasting on southern sea fare such as potato chip-encrusted crab cakes.
Tennessee — This fall, we are heading back “home” to Tennessee for a proper vacation. Bookended by a wedding in Memphis one weekend, and a birthday celebration from my mom in the Smoky Mountains the next, we decided to spend a little time in Nashville and Cumberland relaxing and seeing the sites in between. I’m so excited to experience the Ryman and Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage and to catch Tennessee’s counterpart to my Charleston’s Husk.
And last, but not least…
Football is back! — Truth be told, while I’m a basketball girl myself, I love that Saturday afternoons are reserved for curling up on the couch with Mr. SIT, good snacks, and maybe a magazine or two for me (if it’s a Tennessee game).
The Storming of Ft. Wagner
If you’ve seen the film Glory, starring Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman, you’ll remember the historic Civil War battle at Fort Wagner. Positioned on the Atlantic beachfront, this fort was the site of two Civil War battles and was responsible for the subsequent inspiration and recruitment of many African-American soldiers.
This southern fort is especially fascinating to me, as it was built on swamp lands, which have been slowly eroding over the years since, and now, only the Morris Island Light tower remains, surrounded by water.
Natural Beauty at Fort Frederick Preserve
Built by the British between 1730 and 1734, Fort Frederick was designed to defend against a possible attack from the Spanish at St. Augustine. It measures only 125 feet by 75 feet, but held a battery and cannon along the east wall and a magazine and barracks in the interior, which was garrisoned by a company of foot British Regulars until their transfer to Georgia in 1736.
Located near Beaufort, South Carolina, the fort remains the oldest tabby fort. Artifact collecting, digging and metal detecting are not allowed on the preserve, since climbing or walking on the fort can lead to deterioration of this cultural resource. So while it is currently closed to the public, this beautiful and historic landmark may be arranged to be visited by calling for an arranged tour. A committee to conduct preserve maintenance and other stewardship activities has been formed to benefit the preserve.
Located off the coast of Charleston is a grouping of citadels called Fort Moultrie, named for General William Moultrie after the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. The entire history of sea-coast defense from the 171-year history can be told from this island fort.
Moultrie’s Liberty Flag being raised during the Revolutionary War.
During the American Revolution, patriots began to build a fort from local palmetto logs. When British ships opened fire, their cannon balls virtually bounced off the palmettos until the British ships were driven back from the area. June 28th is still known as “Carolina Day” as a celebration of this galvanizing victory.
The fort evolved with the times through further wars, including the Civil War and World War II, as well as hurricane storms. Today, the National Park Service runs this historic landmark as part of the Fort Sumter National Monument. As this southern fort is located quite near my new home in Charleston, I plan to visit Sullivan’s Island and Fort Moultrie soon.
When we think of the Southern islands, I jump right to the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida.
But don’t forget the Gulf Coast has some beautiful islands as well. South Padre Island off the coast of Texas is a resort island that is always filled with good food, good music, and water and sun. What more could you want?
If you’re an outdoorsman (or outdoorslady), there’s plenty of kayaking, horseback riding, and fishing. The island is host to many annual fishing tournaments, so whenever you visit, you’re likely to see a few catches being hauled in.
And check out last year’s Southern islands week featuring Dauphin Island, Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, and Kiawah Island.
If the South has a capital, it’s Charleston, South Carolina. From the moment I turned onto Highway 17, I was smitten by the Lowcountry. How is it that I’d never spent more than a few minutes passing through this charming city? Well, I made up for lost time this weekend. We met my dad there for a little 50th birthday trip, since it’s one of my parents’ favorite cities, and halfway between my folks and my sister and her husband.
There was so much to do on our itinerary, we of course didn’t see it all, but I think we gave it a pretty good go, and I know we’re all already planning our next trip back! Here’s what we did, in case you want to re-create a patented Thompson family trip:
Thursday Evening
Mr. SIT and I snuck in early and had a delicious dinner at Jim ‘n Nick’s. Listen, I’m a Memphis BBQ girl, but I do love some vinegar-y Carolinian ‘que. And Jim ‘n Nick’s Cheese Biscuits are to die for!
Friday
We slept in a bit at our hotel in preparation for a big weekend of late nights chatting and eating. Upon recommendation from a friend who works for the Charleston Tourism Department, we stayed in the up-and-coming neighborhood of North Charleston. In addition to being full of great shopping, eating, and near the airport, it was also central to everything. It never took us more than 20 minutes to get anywhere in the city.
Then, before our families arrived, we explored the city a bit, familiarized ourselves with the varied neighborhoods like quaint Summerville, hip Park Circle, beautiful Avondale.
But as soon as the families arrived, we hugged and squealed and then promptly went for the food (you’ll notice lots of eating on this trip). Jack’s Cosmic Dogs was the perfect place to start off a fun and distinctly Charleston local favorite. There were dozens of hot dogs to choose from, and the atmosphere rocketed us (sorry!) back to the atomic age.
Next off, we headed straight for the downtown area. We strolled through the City Market, the perfect place to pick up souvenirs like handmade woven baskets, art, benne wafers, and jewelry. It’s like Etsy in real life! We wondered up and down Meeting Street, where you’ll find plenty to see. My favorite were the gorgeous old churches, fitting appropriately in the “Holy City.” So much history!
We lucked out and happened upon the French Quarter on the first Friday of the month, where the local art galleries fling open their doors with plenty of art to see, snacks to nibble, and wine to drink. The best part? I happened upon a couple of new favorite artists, and even got to visit with one about her inspiration and process.
But by the end of the evening and plenty of walking, can you believe it we were hungry again, so we headed over to the highly recommended Sesame Burger. The service was fantastic, and the menu varied so that even the vegetarian lovers in your group will be happy. I got the South Carolinian burger, topped with pimento cheese. You can not go wrong with that! Plus, everything, and I mean everything is fresh. They even grind their own meat on site.
Saturday
Of course we had to start Saturday morning off with more food. We woke up early and got to a classic Charleston favorite, Hominy Grill. If you’re going to take it slower, be aware that their crowds start showing up at highest peak around 11 a.m., so grab a coffee on your way, ’cause you’re gonna wait a minute. But boy was it worth it! Around our table, I was drooling over the Fried Green Tomato BLT, Cornmeal Cakes, and poached eggs with salmon. But if it’s your first time, you gotta go with the classic Big Nasty Biscuit. A biscuit topped with fried chicken and gravy. Makes you want to smack yur momma! (But I didn’t. She was sitting right across from me.)
We still hadn’t seen the famous Charleston homes that are so uniquely Southern, and it was a gorgeous day, so we headed for the Battery. What a view! Charleston is surrounded by water, and the cool breezes kept us company while we broke out the bocce ball set and wiled the morning away.
Mr. SIT, trying on hats
But we ladies hadn’t gotten our fill yet of shopping, so you know we had to hit King Street sooner or later. With everything from Louis Vuitton to Forever 21, ladies you will get your fill. But there was plenty for the men to enjoy too. Seersucker, hats, book stores, a whole shop full of industrial lamps that my dad and Mr. SIT went crazy for. And when you’re tuckered out, a two-story Starbucks to soak up some air conditioning.
We’d spotted a cool old building down by the marina, and turns out it was California Dreaming, where my parents had recalled they had gotten unforgettable ribs before at their location in Columbia, so off to dinner we went. We got the best waterfront seat in the house, delicious salads (I mean seriously good, couldn’t-stop-talking-about salads), scrumptious meals, and fantastic service. The wait wasn’t short, since it’s apparently a very popular location, so we suggest calling ahead for reservations.
Since we happened to be in Charleston on Derby Saturday, and since I’ve not missed a viewing of the Derby since I was born, my dad then raced back to the hotel like a prize-winning jockey, just in time place our hands over our hearts as “My Old Kentucky Home” was sung. We’d all placed our bets, but no one chose winner I’ll Have Another. What a inspirational story, so we didn’t mind anyway!
We were all tuckered out from a day filled with walking and shopping, we stayed in for the rest of the evening, playing games and chatting (and polishing off a bucket of Peterbrooke popcorn I had brought up from Jacksonville. Then off to bed early so we could be well rested for…
Sunday
Like any good southern Baptists that we are, we had to visit a church while we were there. What a treat to get to worship with some real locals, and get a good feel for the city. We had fallen in love with the nearby neighborhood of Summerville, so we tracked down a pastor that had graduated from my favorite seminary, and attended Sunday morning at Old Fort Baptist Church. There are plenty of great churches in the city to choose from. In fact, it got its name, the “Holy City” from the amount of steeples dotting its skyline.
After a failed attempt to lunch at EVO (closed on Sundays — sad for us, good for them!), we settled on spending the perfect day out at Folly Beach. So we drove out, and grabbed a quick lunch at Taco Boy. A cool atmosphere (a little too hip for us Southern trads though… we did not care for the unisex bathroom!) — Taco Boy has fresh tacos a la carte for a quick snack before an afternoon of dipping our West Coast toes in some good Carolina ocean. We frolicked, played a little more Bocce Ball, but were then too hastily ushered to our car by a quick afternoon coastal thunderstorm.
It didn’t last long though. Just enough to cool things off. By the time we had popped into Publix (the things I miss about the South!!) to stock up on more waters, the sun was popping back out, so we drove downtown again for just one more look at those genteel, elegant homes. We just couldn’t get enough! Walk down Broad Street and Church Street for some of the most gorgeous Southern homes you’ll ever see. A girl can dream…
After all that fresh air and water-gazing, we were all in the mood for a little seafood, and you can’t leave Charleston without trying out a favorite, Hyman’s Seafood. Despite its popularity, and location right on Meeting Street, we got right in and proceeded to dine on fresh fish, shrimp and grits, and crab cakes. Make sure you visit their gift shop on your way out. We could not get enough of their salt scrubs. Perfect for souvenirs to bring home to friends and fam who weren’t lucky enough to accompany you on this trip. (Maybe grab one for yourself too, because you won’t stop thinking about the Holy City.)
I even sat at the table where Pat Conroy has dined!
Monday
Just enough time to grab a sackful of Chick-fil-a biscuits on our way to the airport and one last wave to the East Coast before we headed back to California. For now. But we can’t wait to get back to Charleston as soon as possible!
As I said, there was so much we didn’t get to this time around. From Magnolia Plantation to Fort Sumter to Sullivan’s Beach, and restaurants galore. Here are a few that are on our list for next time (trust me, we shoved as much food as was humanly possible down our hatches, but we can’t wait to eat at): Poogan’s Porch, EVO, Husk, F.I.G., McCrady’s, High Cotton…
And of you’re still looking for more to do, of course always check out Design*Sponge’s collection of City Guides.
Has that special girl in your life made you a Christmas list yet? No?? Well, we’re here to bail you out of a jam. Yes, diamonds are a girl’s best friend. But since we’re sure you just did that last year, here are a few other ideas, just to keep things interesting.
This signet ring is substantial enough to be rock-star cool, but simple enough to be classic.
How about a bit more rustic, everyday wear for the jewelry lover. This equestrian necklace is a gorgeous patina that she’ll want to wear with everything, on into the summer months.
The ladies love a great set of stationary to keep in touch with their dearest friends. Give her the gift of corresponding in style with these pineapple notecards.
Great Southern girls don’t mind sewing on the occasional loose button or two. But your girl will love it even more if she’s got a cute sewing kit, complete in a mason jar to do it with.
My favorite day of the week is shopping day. I love placing all my green veggies, fresh bread, and tasty goodies in a colorful reusable bag. These, from L.L. Bean are classics. And besides getting them in her favorite color, you can have them personalized for an extra special touch.
I love sticking small vials of essential oils in stockings. They have so many uses. Once you start, you’d be amazed at their health, cleaning, and gardening benefits. Try eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint to start.
I love these hair bands. They are simply the best.
Every girl loves a beauty product — especially if they help her relax and smell gorgeous too! Try this bath tea by Bettijo or the tea collection by L’Occitane.
Want to make something with your own two hands? How about these bath teas? They’d be most appreciated after the holiday hurrying and bustling, I’m sure.
Or if you prefer to support the handmade community, Etsy is a great source for gifts made with love. I’ve extolled my love before for these personalized jars by DayJarView filled with sweet notes to last your friends well after the holidays, and let them know you’re thinking of them into the new year.
If it’s often held true that men are the hardest to buy for, that’s quickly changed. Lately, I’ve been noticing the coolest gifts around with men in mind. Maybe it’s the rise of metros, or maybe there’s really just that much cool stuff.
But if you’re having trouble with the man in your life, fear no more! Sweet Iced Tea is here to help. Here are our favorite picks for all the good boys and good ol’ boys:
I don’t know about your house, but in mine, it’s the man’s job to put up the Christmas tree. So start his season off right by having one come straight to your door. Several companies now will deliver fresh, still growing trees to your home, and then plant them back after the new year. Your family can even adopt the same tree year after year, and watch it change and grow like an old family friend.
Got a golfer in your life? Make a golf gift basket with tees, balls, and a set of this care kit by F. A. Seeds, including polishes and leather conditioner.
If there is one surprising thing I’ve learned about Southern men, it’s that they actually love candles. Of course, they’re not often going to waltz into your favorite home store and pick up a bagful themselves, but everyone from my hubby to favorite uncle light the candles on the coffee table when they get a chance. My FIL (father-in-law) just had this tobacco candle burning all Thanksgiving in his sitting room, and it was delicious, and so manly.
Monogrammed handkerchiefs — Nothing better to show Southern chivalry than a guy who has a hankie in his pocket to offer along with his “Bless You. Give him a box of crisp new hankies in his stocking.
Men are practical creatures, so give him something of use and value. Like this fire-resistant document bag or a firesafe to keep his family’s precious memories and important papers safe. Peace of mind is a priceless gift.
Is your guy always looking for a screwdriver? Combine key ring with a useful tool that will always be with him where he can find it easily.
He can also never have too many flashlights. Especially when they are as cool as this super-bright LED model, with bulbs that will never need replacing. Tell him he, like this light, lights up your entire room.
Mr. SIT loves his iPhone to get us places, but we miss our GPS, mounted conveniently on the dash. Here’s a universal mount that will hold just about anything. Problem solved!
I love to stick a little something humorous in the mix. But I think any guy would seriously love this bacon soap.
If there’s a music lover in your family, how about one of these cool records-turned-clock to keep time in the man-cave. (Someone in my family is getting one of these, but I’m not telling who!)
What about an experience together? Book a massage for a day of relaxation after the parties are done and the lights are down and the snow is shoveled and the families are gone. A short drive across town to that fancy place you’ve always wanted to go to is a good excuse to throw in a lunch and perhaps even an overnight staycation in the mix. It’s something to look forward to after the holiday leaves.
And if you’ve got to do the gift card thing, at least put it in a clever ornament to be used again and add a little spark to, let’s face it, probably their favorite gift of all.
It’s no secret we love to read around here.
So it’s natural that we love to give & receive books as presents. Think about it, if you can find a great book, it can transcend age/gender barriers and be the perfect present to last the year and a lifetime through. (Plus, is there anything easier to wrap than a book?)
So, here are just a few of our great suggestions for reading material (these work well on plane rides and car trips to grandmother’s house too).
Nathan Coulter by Wendell Berry — The first of Berry’s set in the fictional Port William, Kentucky, this Southern work is deeply emotional and human. A fantastic, but lesser known Faulknerian work from the South.
In the Company of Others: A Father Tim Novel by Jan Karon — I’m just going to pretend it’s not even a possibility you and yours haven’t read the rest of the Mitford series, and just remind you that the latest in the Father Tim novels came out this fall, so this would make a perfect present for Dad/Mom/Mamaw and everyone in your family who are old Timothy Kavanaugh friends.
God and Football by Chad Gibbs — Such an interesting read for any Southern man. Seems almost like the title could be a book describing the South — God & football. In that order, thank you very much.
A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson — Everyone knows someone in the South who has hiked the Appalachian trail. But, not really being too much of an “outdoor gal” myself (surprise, surprise, I know), I never really “got it” until I read Bill Bryson‘s hilarious journey in A Walk in the Woods. His books are some of the few that will literally make you laugh out loud. I also love I’m a Stranger Here Myself, The Lost Continent, and The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid, but truly everything I’ve read of this man is genius — hilarious, informative, and warm. Perfect winter reading.
And if your friend or family member has a shorter attention span, but wants the gift that keeps on giving, we love magazine subscriptions for the holidays too. Make sure to pick up the latest copy, tie with a bow, and give them something to open and thumb through after the Christmas feast!
Our picks? Why, Garden & Gun of course!
We also love Cooking with Paula Deen for great Southern recipes and more.
And if you really love that so-n-so you’re buying for, the gift of a thousand books — a Kindle. I’ve loved every incarnation since the first. Amazon has a large selection of books and stellar service. The perfect gift for anyone!
Read Sweet Iced Tea!
Sweet Iced Tea 