Sunday, June 13, 2010

Savannah

Last week Travis had to travel to Savannah, Georgia for work, and I weaseled my way to travel along with him. He's been there a few times, and talked about what a cool city it is, so I was pretty excited to do some exploring. Savannah is just so green, and so lush. Spanish moss covers the trees and drapes over the buildings and seems to make the streets, even in the city, seem like a neighborhood you'd want to grow up in. Savannah is set up with grids and lanes, with beautiful squares all over the city. (I think I read that there are 21 of them). Each square is surrounded by those beautiful trees, benches (Forrest Gump was filmed here), and in the center there is a statue, monument, or fountain dedicated to someone important in Savannah's history. The squares are all beautiful, and it was fun to stumble on them and see what they were all about.

Our hotel was just a few blocks aways from Paula Dean's restaurant "Lady and Sons". I love Paula Dean, but couldn't bring myself to wait in the line to eat there. Not to mention it was sooo hot while I was there, that food just didn't sound good all week!On night we ventured to the beautiful Tybee Island. I really missed the ladies this night because the beach is covered in sea shells, and they would have really loved finding them. We even saw a jellyfish washed up on shore.
Travis worked each day while we were there, so I mostly had to entertain myself. I slept in every day, went shopping at some really great boutiques, laid by the pool, read, and just explored the city. I couldn't get over how amazing the streets of Savannah were, and spent hours just exploring. (This street is home to the famous Mrs. Wilkes restaurant). The line to get in was around the block.
I read "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" while I was there. I had heard of the book, but didn't know much about it. It is a true story about a murder committed in Savannah in the 1980's. This is the home of Jim Williams, where the murder took place and a good chunk of the book is set. This house is huge, and surrounded by some more amazing homes. It is set facing Monterey square.

Just a block up from the Mercer house is this amazing building that Jim Williams also restored. He then sold it to a law firm (which is still there today), that ended up representing him in the last 3 of his 4 trials.
This fountain is in the center of the beautiful Forsyth Park. One of the most beautiful places in the city, though I learned later that it isn't the safest place at night....(I sent Travis a HURRY UP and COME GET ME text while visiting there later in the evening, when the ambulances starting showing up and policemen were blocking off the gates.Magnolia Place, stunning.

I've decided that I need a break like this one every 6 months. It was just amazing to be able to sleep in, shop without worrying my kiddos would break something, take a nap if I needed one, and just wander and not be needed for a few days. I came home missing my kids like crazy, and feeling like I could be a patient, good mom again. And I really fell in love with the city of Savannah. It is nothing short of beautiful!

7 comments:

KIRSTEN said...

Savannah, looks absolutely breath taking! That is funny you brought up Paula Dean .. me and the hubby just bought an entertainment center that was designed by of all people ... her. Is there anything, the woman cannot do :)

I agree with you on the whole needing to take a break away from the kiddos every now and again. WE love them, but boy do we need a break and that is why you MUST come with me and Jessie on our next girls trip ... New Orleans baby!

Justin & Ashlee said...

Looks like you had a great time! I loved the pics.

Amy Johnson said...

You were missed!

Eileen said...

What a fun vacay destination. You are very deserving of a fun get-away/R&R.

The Falkers said...

What a gorgeous city! I bet it was nice just to get away. Let's do lunch soon!

The Wolfley Family said...

I'm sooo jealous! You must take me next time!
I need a zoo trip too! Why do we have to miss all the fun!? Boo!

Clayton and Heidi said...

Trips like that are the best. Savanah looks beautiful.