I Forget

I often forget to take time to relax and enjoy the simple things in life. It seems that I am always busy, but doing what?

Today, I was reminded of how important and refreshing it is to take some time and do something you really enjoy, forgetting all distractions that life throws at you.

After church today, I drove the one hour to meet up with our daughter Elissa and we attended the Palmetto Chamber Orchestra‘s Holiday Concert. I have always tried to support local art, especially music and I have grown very fond of the PCO and the enjoyment they provide.

Elissa, (aka “Jelly”) is in her late 20’s, married and seems to be navigating her way through life with the enthusiasm she has always demonstrated.  I was a few years younger than she is now when I began to develop my appreciation for organ and orchestral music. Better late than never.

Today, she joined me and we enjoyed the “sold out” performance.

Maestra Suzanna Pavlovsky is the Artistic & Musical Director, Conductor, and Emcee for the Palmetto Chamber Orchestra. She usually has a few surprises for the attendees and today was no different. The Palmetto Chamber Orchestra delivered a beautiful and eclectic performance which included the South Carolina debut of a piece composed by Gordon “Dick” Goodwin, Maestro Goodwin was present to talk about how the piece came to be and appeared pleased with the performance of one of his works.

I had the opportunity to introduce Elissa to Maestra Pavlovsky after the concert concluded and we had a cordial chat before heading over for dinner. I told Elissa she could pick the place and she chose “Bourbon.”

With a name like that, am I going to say no?

With a New Orleans theme, we enjoyed our dinner and conversation.  The restaurant is on Main St, less than a block from the State House, so afterward, we walked down to take a look at “Henry’s Christmas Tree”. (Henry McMaster is our Governor).

As we parted, we decided we will attend the next performance on February 24th.

On my way home, I reveled in the four hours we spent together and how relaxing it was.

Now, my goal is to remember to keep renewing the joy.

PS. . . I know at least two friends reading this who are wondering what Bourbon I had with dinner?

No Bourbon tonight, but I enjoyed two, Pawley’s Island Black IPA’s. Think a cross between a Guinness and a Sweetwater IPA.  It matched perfectly with my Etouffee