New Year’s // 2014-15

Whenever I wander around my in-laws’ property in South Carolina I’m struck by a familiar smell. Perhaps it’s the wet pine needles, the moist air, the earth, the foliage. Whatever it is, that smell transports me back to childhood days spent at my grandparents’ home in Chapel Hill, NC. The Carolinas have an essence about them. A sense of familiarity and calm. A sense of home, although it’s never been one for me (however close I came to attending UNC for college, and instead opted for the colder climes of The Berkshires).

Regardless, I like how I feel when I’m in the Carolinas.

This visit was quiet and relaxing. While the weather was cool, we spent a great deal of time outdoors, swimming in the pool, exploring the property, building bon fires, biking, and searching for pine cones. We napped every day. We ate meals at home. We spent that quiet week between Christmas and New Year’s taking advantage of the lack of schedule and demands. I found myself taking extended walks, wrapped up in that comforting Carolina smell, sun soaked, and hooked on Serial (I plowed through all 12 episodes in three days). It was the perfect retreat before diving into the new year. Here are a few favorites that capture the heart of the trip.