Greenville and Cowpens Battlefield

Mel and I took a road trip to Greenville, SC over the weekend. What a great town! I would recommend seeing it if you're ever in in the area.

There is a variety of historical, cultural and shopping options to enjoy from funky clothing shops to art galleries, theater and museums; there's even something for baseball fans - the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum and Baseball Library and a plaza where a life-size bronze statue of Joe stands.

My favorite part of town is the 32 acre Falls Park in the center of the city. This park was recently redeveloped in an area of town that was run down and neglected. They did a great job to make it a pedestrian friendly gathering and walking area. The park is built around a river that runs through town, now lined with hotels, an ampitheatre, restaurants, walking paths, bridges, play grounds and seating areas. What a great place to enjoy a hot southern night! People were out in abundance that evening including bridal parties being photographed, runners and families with kids cooling off in the river. I love the warm evenings in the south where wearing shorts, and flip flops is the norm - it still feels like I'm on vacation after so many years of cool evenings in the northwest where wearing a sweater (or parka) in the summer is the standard.

The following day we walked the Cowpens Battlefield. It seemed appropriate (on 4th of July weekend) to learn about this battle that took place on January 17, 1781. On that day, Daniel Morgan led his army of tough Continentals to a victory over Banastre Tarleton's large force of British regulars. It is considered by many historians to be a major turning point in the war. Happy 4th of July everyone!