I was planning to do this post about our April trip to Charleston for a while now. Then the tragic and heartbreaking church shooting happened. I don't watch TV, when Ryan is out of town it doesn't come on, therefore I cannot talk about what happened in Charleston with much knowledge as I've barely exposed myself to it. Quite frankly, I feel like I know enough though, and the things I don't know and I cannot understand will not be answered on the news. When I hear about the suicide killings and the "hate" crimes I'm left full of questions. I wonder if this is a mental illness epidemic. Then I question if the hate has been taught at home, because I do believe that babies are not born with hate in their hearts. Then I consider the fact that our world has always had evil and darkness, but that doesn't mean we should just accept it. I feel like we should be moved to pay attention to the patterns and try to understand what is going on in the minds and souls of the sick perpetrators. I did see the families of the victims speak. Their Godly love and forgiveness is a testimony of the light and love that does exist in our world. And I hope, that as time passes, and the legacy of the victims live on, that we can all cultivate a love like theirs.
On to a lighter note about Charleston. We loved our trip there. We stayed for three nights and every moment was filled with memories I'll cherish forever. There is a really good energy in Charleston. It's one of those places that just makes you feel alive. All the people we met were happy and friendly. Everything was clean. The food was delicious and the shops were fun to explore. I enjoyed strolling the colorful streets, hand in hand with Ryan, as we took in all the sights and sounds.
I have to share a few of my favorite places with you. This place, called Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar, had an inviting glow to it. All the windows were opened and as we walked by it you could hear the conversations and laughter, and smell the desserts in the air. After a day of shopping, Ryan and I decided to check it out. We had vanilla cappuccinos and shared a peanut butter chocolate dessert that was heaven to the mouth. The atmosphere was exactly what I envision for our future home. It was full of bright light, fresh air, white walls, exposed brick, and wood floors.
The Macintosh, we went here for brunch on a Sunday, and it was one of my favorite restaurants there. I had the best Bloody Mary with Dill Vodka. To eat, Ryan had the Chicken and Waffles and I had a delicious biscuit dish.
We did lots and lots of walking, and I believe we worked off all of the grand meals we were eating. The buildings and architecture could have kept me entertained all day long. It was simply beautiful. I may have been more attracted to the pink buildings!
Candles! They are my obsession. I can't walk by a candle without smelling it. Let me loose in a candle store and may sniff each and every one at least twice. Candlefish was on my places-to-visit list before we left Kansas City. I'm sad I didn't schedule a class for us to make candles because I really wanted to do it, but I don't like having an agenda on vacation, so I didn't. When we got to the store, they were in the middle of a class and I saw all the people learning how to make candles, I wished I had scheduled a class for us. I did however stock up on some of their library scents, and I got some extras for my mom and Ryan's mom. They smelled so good, I need to order more!
Last, but certainly not least, is Moon and Lola. This little boutique was posh! The walls were all white - the perfect back drop for all the gorgeous jewelry and accessories. If I had a million dollars I'd order one of everything!
They are on Instagram @moonandlola and you should follow them for colorful and cheerful photos of their jewelry and Charleston! Aren't they cute?
You can shop for all their glam jewels here.
Below are some of the pieces I'd like to order, click the image to see more details about their pretty jewelry and accessories.
Prayers and love for Charleston.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome. John 1:5
French Press Mornings has encouraging posters on Pinterest you may enjoy here, I do.
xo Wen, Instagram @wendycorreen