Dear Reader:

Riding through historic Old Summerville on my way home with the windows down, brought back so many memories yesterday …as the sheer charm and beauty of our ” Flowertown in the Pines” enveloped me completely!

I am in love with Summerville because (like most long-time residents) I knew it when it was a little town ( 1972) and know it now… and truthfully it has morphed from a charming village to a bustling metropolis BUT along with growth and its challenges …have come fascinating people from all over …adding wonderful diversity and talents to improving the landscape and adding even more creative opportunities to still enjoy the elaborate art centers, restaurants, social centers while preserving the integrity and history of the town.

Summerville can hold its own against Charleston … and we are located within a 10- 15 mile radius of all the famous plantations off Highway 61 ( Magnolia, Middleton, and Drayton Hall) practically in our ” backyard!

But all my early morning errands Saturday morning had one objective… preparing for Mandy’s birthday TODAY!

Mandy was my first-born and a Labor Day Arrival … storks must have a sense of humor too! But it was a ” Labor of Love!”

All the family is turning out for a cook-out today-swimming , gifts, partying and just gathering … the most important part!

So until tomorrow… “Mandy’s first grade wish was that all our hopes for the world…” should be” I wish all the children of the world would grow up to be friends and love each other.”

Today is my favorite day -Winnie the Pooh