And the answers I wanted to give. As you can see, I'm better with a pen:
What are your top three destinations in NC?
1. Anything Blue Ridge Parkway. We've driven the entire road.
2. Pisgah National Forest
3. We haven't decided on a coastal favorite yet; we're still learning our way around. So far, it's between Lake Mattamuskeet and New Bern.
However, we haven't explored the Piedmont yet, though after researching a few potential destinations, I've stopped referring to it as the land between me and the mountains.
What would you say is a rare jewel in the Carolinas?
I automatically pictured the swamp at Cypress Gardens, the marshes at Cape Romain, and the haunting forest of Congaree, but then remembered the view from the end of Table Rock's Summit Trail, and Pearson Falls in Saluda. [And I failed to mention Pretty Place and places along the Outer Banks.]
However, we've yet to see spider lilies blanketing parts of Landsford Canal State Park, to stroll the pristine shores of Bulls Island, see the view from Jumping Off Rock, watch snow geese swirl over the pocosin lake at sunrise, or witness the wonder of sea turtles hatching before they make their way into the silvery ocean. So I think the best answer is the Carolinas themselves, since they're home to all of these.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
As often as I can, I include warnings about dangers, both hidden and visible, one may encounter. We're so accustomed to walking around city streets and inside buildings, expecting care has been taken to ensure our safety. But as I've mentioned in several posts, nature doesn't care about liability, and when people steps in its boundaries, they do so at their own risk. Having learned the hard way, we tell people to watch out for snakes and other critters--including bears. To watch where they walk (rocks, holes and tree roots often litter trails), to make sure they fill out hiker registration forms available at many trailheads, and tell someone where they're going and what time they should return home. Take plenty of water, and wear appropriate clothing. I can't tell you how many people we've seen hiking Table Rock with purses and sandals. Heed warnings listed on websites or posted at the destination. Use common sense.
Above all, don't play near the edge of cliffs or on wet rocks around waterfalls. Have fun, but be careful. We want people to enjoy the Carolinas, but we want them to go home safely so they can return again.
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Thanks for sharing this event with me. In my mind, it isn't about us and our talent or work, it's about showcasing the wonders of the Carolinas, which we hope to continually explore, and to share with you.
4 comments:
Well, I came by at just the right time. I was worried I'd have to wait another week to see Part II. Beautiful!
I know you're not doing this blog for glory or honor, and I know you're doing it to showcase the beauty of the Carolinas, but I still have to say congratulations on an excellent job.
The fact that it's a labor of love from your heart makes it even better. It's not an "ad" or a self promotion. When I come here, I know I can trust what you say and use it in my own travels.
Thank you, Kimberli! We're so glad you're here.
Thank you very much, ma'am. And you bring up an interesting point. At times I wonder what I would do if someone invited me to a town, park, etc. for the purpose of promoting it. I decided I'd have to turn them down. It's far better we travel to a destination on our own and report what we see (and what we trip over along the trail) than to feel pressured into writing a glowing post.
I know, most of my posts are glowing. But that's because we truly feel that way about a destination. Despite everything there is to do there, I'm not fond of Myrtle Beach and I say so. Too many people. Too many cars. Tons of traffic. Same for Hilton Head.
Oh, I should do a post on the differences and similarities of those two cities. Cool. Thanks for the idea.
Kimberly,
You did a fantastic job! I love the Carolinas and I'm glad you have all these destinations. I recently start a Carolina Scots-Irish Blog. If you run across any sites where I could find some Scots-Irish history, please let me know about them.
Thanks, Jennifer. I haven't happened on any Scots-Irish sights, but I'll let you know. I'm Scots-Irish as well, of the Clan McKee (though I think they were called McKey or MacKey in Ireland), so it tends to catch my eye.
I'm sure you know, but I think--not certain, but based on material I've seen--the largest concentration of history and ancestors is in the NC mountains. You've probably checked this too, but don't forget to research using the term "Scotch-Irish". One of the doctors at the seminary where I worked is Scotch-Irish (as he insists they're called.) He lives in the NC mountains and grew up there as well. His father logged around Mt. Mitchell, and he told me quite a few interesting stories.
Thanks for stopping by, and for that great Carolina History widget.
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