Sadie Jane Travels: Hunting Island, SC

My end of summer has been (surprisingly) busy. Whilst preparing for the upcoming school year, I've been bustling around from city to city with my family, and our last summer adventure was a trip to Hunting Island in South Carolina. While still giving you the beach experience, it is free from the tourist vibes of most coastal areas. We spent a Thursday, Friday, and Saturday wandering around the beautiful maritime forests and relaxing on the beach. Although the trip was short, I was thankful to have a break before I resumed my hectic lifestyle as a high school student. 

One of my favorite locations to visit while in the state park is what my dad refers to as the "boneyard". The sands are littered with fallen trees, which creates a playground for any nature lover like myself. Another hidden gem of the area is a small restaurant called the Shrimp Shack. Although I'm currently vegetarian, this eatery was a favorite of mine when I ate meat. On this trip, I tried their sweet potato fries and some hush puppies and they were delicious! Going along the lines of food, I tried the Carolina Cider Company for the first time, and I loved it! The cafe's rustic vibes coupled with their amazing lattes made for a lovely breakfast experience.

While summer is coming to an end, I admit that I am ready for cooler weather and falling leaves. This season has left me with so many wonderful memories that I cherish dearly, but it is time to say farewell to a Summer filled with adventures, smiles, and sunshine and hello to the crisp, cool Autumn that lies ahead.

How did you spend your summer? Tell me on Instagram!

XOXO,
Sadie

Sadie Travels: Chicago

Growing up in Western North Carolina, the only skyscrapers I knew were mountains, and seeing buildings taller than trees was unheard of. Instead of getting lost amongst flora and fauna, I found myself wandering through miles of concrete and metal. Naturally, I had to use Google Maps more than a few times to get around! Even with the stark contrast of my rural life and this new city experience, exploring Chicago was one of my more memorable experiences this summer.

Perhaps the most interesting part of my trip was visiting the Art Institute of Chicago. We meandered through many a gallery filled with classic paintings like American Gothic, Van Gogh's Bedroom, and even A Sunday Afternoon on La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat. Even after spending an entire day in the museum, I found myself wishing to spend more time with the Institute's vast collection. I also had the opportunity to walk through the Alder Planetarium. Due to my interest in outer space and astrophysics, I found their exhibition on the universe and dark matter fascinating.

Although I enjoyed both of these amazing experiences, I wish I had gotten to spend more time wandering through Chicago. From what little time I spent in the city, I loved the area and the vibe of the locality. Someday I hope to return and continue my explorations of Chicago, but until then, I'll be relaxing in the mountains, with not a skyscraper in sight.

Until next time!

XOXO,
Sadie

Rivers & Roads

Time seems to have slipped through my fingers as I look back on the wonderful month that was July. It seems like just yesterday I was unpacking my bags, settling into Duke, and looking forward to the incredible three weeks to come. The class I took this year (History of the Future) focused on how we can use the past to effectively predict the future. The course was so fascinating and my classmates made even the dull moments enjoyable. While I wasn't studying, I was able to meet so many kind and lovely people and still enjoy time with my old friends. It's hard to believe that camp is now over, but I was reminded on the last night that we are all sitting on the same earth, looking up at the same stars. No matter how far the distance between us, we will always be connected by the memories and smiles we shared this year. I'm so thankful for my Duke TIP experience, and all of the beautiful people I have met because of it. 

Remember, its only rivers & roads til' I reach you.

XOXO,
Sadie