Baxter Court

Irmo Elementary has had a large garden space for several years. When I was a stay at home mom, I spent A LOT of time working in the garden and trying to keep it looking nice. It was a big job. Unfortunately, teachers and students were very seldom able to be in the space because there's just not time in the school day. And since I started working, I don't have time to take care of the garden. It has become overgrown and an eye sore. 

The PTA decided to dismantle the garden so the space can be used for PE and recess. I am so grateful for this group of women that have become my support and strength over the past several years. I love that we always pull together to serve our children. They make me a better person. I love with spouses and kids join in on the service.

These boxes are so cool, but they're falling apart. We dismantled them and are going to rebuild them in our backyard. I'm excited about that!

I dug up some of the iris to replant. I had thought of digging up the gardenia that I planted a few years ago, but it is now huge - too huge to move.

My sweet friend April is running for school board. It is a difficult and ugly time for her to be trying to do this, but I hope she wins. We need her voice to combat so much of the ugly out there.

The before and after is pretty amazing.

It was a great way to spend a Saturday morning.

Savannah River Scenic Byway

On Sunday, I wanted to go on a drive in the new car. I knew it would be a 2-3 hour drive. It ended up being more like six hours. Whoops! We saw some cool places, but it took way too long. Plus, when it comes to scenic byways, the Savannah River Scenic Byway is over-rated, unless the northern part is prettier than the southern part.

Our first stop was McCormick, a historic little town that used to be a big stop on the rail line. We saw the old station and explored a bit.

We were surprised to learn that the station was actually occupied. An interesting man - whose name I don't know - lives in the station and is fixing it up. He builds amazing model building kits that he then donates to veterans and other rehabilitation homes. He was quite a character.

Jalen thought it was amazing.

I was fascinated by the tobacco barn.

The place was filled with antiques.

Roof and loft.

There were beautiful historical homes.

And a huge cotton gin.

The old train station.

Main Street

Outside of town we found this cool church.

Across the street from this cool house. I love old buildings.

David liked this sculpture of fishing boys.

I am also fascinated by bottle trees.

Next stop was Lowndesville. There was an old post office.

And some cool artwork.

Main Street had been mostly deserted.

Just down the road - jail??

We saw a sign for a dam overlook so we took a little detour. It was worth it.

It was a very long day, but we made some fun memories. And we love our Subaru!