Posted from Atlanta, GA.
I have taken a break from rustic living and from Nova Scotia weather. My budget includes a generous amount for a yearly vacation so, to jumpstart my spring, I flew to Atlanta to visit MAC.
Wormsloe Historic Site (photo by MAC)
My first trip since retirement is timely: MAC and I met 10 years ago this month on an REI Adventures hiking vacation to Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon. Since then, we’ve had a yearly trip or visit. We’ve hiked in national parks in Arizona, California, Wyoming, and Utah and enjoyed leisurely travels in Hawaii and New Mexico. When I cut back on expenses in 2014 to save for simpler living semi-retirement, MAC visited me in Seattle and explored the PNW.
And it’s been almost a year since MAC and I left WA and drove across Canada for my move home. We hit the road again here for a trip to Savannah, GA and Hilton Head, SC. I have never been in this area before and Savannah did not disappoint with its unique architecture, historic squares, and Spanish moss. At Hilton Head, we walked the beach, feet in the water, and I was reminded that just up the coast the same water, a tad cooler, was lapping the Nova Scotia shoreline. I was also reminded how good it feels to travel and see a new location.
Forsyth Park, Savannah (photo by MAC)
I walked around the Whole Foods and REI stores here with fond memories of my time in Seattle.
But I am not experiencing spring here: I have jumped into what feels like the height of summer. Many days have had temperatures in the high 20’s C/90’s F and even reached 35C/100F in Savannah. It’s been a welcome adjustment since I only recently peeled off my long underwear after five long months of winter.
My original SLSR plan included the idea to inexpensively escape more of Nova Scotia winter so my mind is already working on options for next year. In the week before I left for Atlanta, the landscape was just starting to look green again with new grass. When I get back there, I’ll be ready to embrace spring and tackle some farmhouse improvements. Until then, I’ll be admiring the southern flora and soaking up the warm.
References and related links:
- MAC: mon amie Caroline.
- REI: Recreational Equipment, Inc.
- PNW: Pacific Northwest.
- SLSR: simpler living semi-retirement.
- Previous post: the road trip.
Cousin Rob says
Savannah is indeed an interesting city. Sort of reminds me of Halifax. We spent a few days there about 10 or 12 years ago. Did the horse and buggy tour. Sat on Mr Gump’s bench ( but without the box of chocolates. Our week there was during their St Pat festival in March. Quite a party city!!!
back is the new forward says
One of our guides said the St Patrick’s Day parade lasted 6 hours this year. I cannot imagine how crazy the city would be!
Neil says
Glad you and Caroline had a good trip and that your vacation is going well. Enjoy and soak up the sun. We’ve had some warm days while you were away, but a cool breeze often accompanies the sun.
back is the new forward says
Caroline says it’s time to retire my “Gilligan” sun hat. I got a new one with a larger brim at REI.
Claire Haas says
In your plan for SLSR winter escape, please remember that one should get out of Canada during winter! That would be Jan. or Feb. or maybe even in March! I prefer leaving during the shortest days…. say in Jan. When the days get longer, I don’t mind winter so much!
Please note that I have changed my email address. Looking forward to more “back is the new forward”!
back is the new forward says
Hi Claire – good point about getting away from the short daylight time, not just cold and snow. I’ve deleted your old email address from the mailing list. Thanks for following along on this adventure!