Happy July 4th!

Belvedere, Rutledge Ave., Charleston, SC  

I went on a patriotic flag search walk last time I was in town and the Belvedere Bed & Breakfast on Rutledge never lets me down. 

Happy Independence Day my fellow Americans! Thanks for welcoming this poor immigrant many years ago. You've given me a home, family, rewarding work and countless friendships.

PS: Making me go to Pittsburgh for a welcoming syphilis test was a little weird but happily I passed.

Around the lake

Colonial Lake, Charleston, SC 

We've enjoyed dramatic blue skies and billowy clouds today. I often park on lower Rutledge when I march about town and carrying a camera makes me try to see the same sights in a fresh way. The red brick building was the former Baker Sanitarium and is now fashionable condos. 

Clothes washed, walking done, a few chores taken care of. I may have time to squeeze in a nap.

Remember that as Charleston Restaurant ends, Avondale Restaurant week begins. These are the restaurants that will be participating from September 19 - 25. Where shall we go? What shall we eat?

• Al Di La

• Avondale Wine & Cheese Bar

• Mellow Mushroom

• Mex 1 Coastal Cantina

• Pearlz Little Oyster Bar

• Triangle Char & Bar

A patriotic show

Belvedere Hotel, Charleston, SC   

I am a day late but loved this picture of the giant flag draped over the porch. The gorgeous building is the Belvedere Hotel on Rutledge Avenue right across from Colonial Lake. The other flags are from the annual Memorial Day tribute on Lockwood Ave. It is a sight to see along the waterfront. 

I have NOT had a relaxing evening after searching for the source of a dripping noise inside my house. Boo hiss. The drip pan from my air-conditioning unit in the attic had overflowed and was dripping through the ceiling. Climbing around hot attics is not my idea of fun. Blah. Charles, my loyal heat and air repairman from Carolina Climate Masters responded to my plea for help and although I still have a wet ceiling I do have air-conditioning again.