Hello, all!

I recently had the opportunity to visit my family for two weeks in Summerville, South Carolina which is near Charleston. It was so cool! Not only did I get to see my family, but I got to experience Charleston in a way I hadn’t before and here’s why: Research.

I took this opportunity to explore this amazing city, experience the crazy summer thunderstorms, and to even eat alligator tail! (Just for the record, it was delicious!) It was a fabulous opportunity and I tried to take in as much as I possibly could.

Why? I’m glad you asked…

I have written a couple of picture book manuscripts about alligators that happen to be set in Charleston and that has lead to a love of all things alligator. So, here are some of the highlights from my trip and hopefully some inspiration for you!

First place of interest: Alligator Adventure in Myrtle Beach, SC

This was the alligator show that they do. It’s held a couple of times per day and they let you touch an alligator and a snake and tell you all sorts of cool facts!

(This little guy is actually a crocodile. It was amazing to see the variety in species they had at this park!)

This place was super cool! If you’re a reptile nut (or if you like seeing dangerous animals up close) then this is totally worth the visit!

Next Up: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

They told us when we got there to allow 45 minutes for the tour of the gardens… Two hours later we finally emerged drenched in sweat and savagely hungry. What?! It was like a jungle in there! All joking aside it was a fantastic experience. (Now, keep in mind we did go in August, so the being drenched part is 100% true…)

And the Audubon Swamp Garden

Last, but certainly not least: Charleston, SC

So there we are! It was an amazing trip that we will never forget and for that I am truly grateful to my family for letting us stay at their house, eat their food and – Oh, speaking of food: Yup, that’s me eating some ‘gator tail!

If you’ve gotten this far, thank you for reading!

This trip was so incredibly inspiring for me and my creative work has blossomed as a result, both in new manuscripts and new watercolor pieces, and I want to share that amazing feeling with all of you!

⇒Art Tip for Today⇐

Take some time outside your studio or workplace and visit somewhere inspiring to you.

If you’re a writer, visit a place you’re writing about or a place you’d like to write about and get those creative juices flowing!

Pursue that thing that makes you excited, that lights you up, and that you feel passionate about-

Then go make the world a little brighter.

Oh, one more thing. . .

My new BFF Rudy wanted to say “Hi!” He’s super excited about visiting California and hopes to have many adventures on the west coast!

Bye, everyone!

P.S. Bonus points if you can name this Mystery Lizard that they had at Alligator Adventure! Let me know your guesses in the comments! (Except for you, Dad – I already know that you know! 😉 )

Git Yer ‘Gator!