Stunning sunset to end the day

Jack and I were out and about today. Exploring as I put it. We found a few thrift stores. Well I found a few and Jack was just being a nice guy and pulled over. =) He did find a few good books though while I was looking for things. Yes, things. I really was not looking for anything in particular but I love the hunt. You all know what I mean. I came home with a few goodies.
Look at this sunset! On our way home I asked him to pull over so I could take a few pictures of this magnificent sunset. Ah the Lowcountry has my heart. We walked out onto this pier and had the view below. There were swings along the waters edge. Lovely. What a romantic setting.
The reflection in the water was magical. My heart was singing.

A lovely afternoon stroll

Being new to Charleston, we are still exploring. Each time I get a day off is like an adventure.This is part of an old church at Fort Dorchester. I loved the old brick and the archways and especially the view through the archway.
We meandered along this pathway until we came upon this wooden walkway that goes out over the river and makes a semicircle back. I just love tree lined paths and streets. They are so inviting, don't you think? They beckon me to enter and see what sort of surprise is at the end.
I looked up and this is what I saw. Spanish moss draped trees with a blue sky in the background. The trees seem so romantic.
This is an image from the waters edge. There were people picnicking, fishing sitting beneath the trees at picnic tables; some reading and some chatting. I would love to come back before sun down and take some more shots with less harsh lighting.

Charleston Charm

The French Huguenot Church
A Charleston driveway. Look at the details. Who wouldn't want to drive up to that!
A glimpse of someones secret garden.

My new town, Charleston, SC, has such wonderful charm. The history, the colors, the architecture, the ironwork, the churches, etc., etc. I love it here! I have taken so many photos and I am eager to take more. This place is a photographers dream. The sweet little courtyards, and magnificent gardens carved out of the tiniest of spaces. The window boxes overflowing with flowers and foliage. The cobblestone streets, the horse driven carriages, the palm trees...you get the picture. Pardon the pun.
There are some wonderful restaurants, live music at night and some great shopping. Are you psyched yet? You've gotta' come see for yourself. The beach is just a hop skip and a jump away for you sun worshipers. The aquarium is nice. I still have to check out the museums. I love that there is so much to do here.
Do you have a city that has captured your heart. Please share. I love to learn about new places. Traveling is such an adventure. Very exciting!

New camera lens

Here is a banner I made. I took a picture of my butterfly bush and then lightened it and voila. Feel free to use it if you'd like.






Ihad to test out my new lens. Mom and DH bought me one for my birthday. It has been fun playing with it but also has let me know that I am a bit shaky even when holding my breath. lol I may need to use my tripod if I want to take some serious photos.
Well I have to tell you this packing is for the birds but it made me declutter and donate more than usual. Charleston or bust, baby! Below is one of the images I took last year while in Charleston, SC. I'm excited! This will be the first time my husband and I have been without children under the same roof. Should be interesting and fun.