We’re beginning to make “merch”—cool stuff like coffee cups and hats. We’ll tell you more later.
North, SC: A Perfect Friday Evening Small-Town Getaway
Discover North, South Carolina, with its Friday farmers market, historic blacksmith shop, local honey, fresh produce, and delicious churros.
FESTIVALS AND FUNHISTORY, TRIVIA & CURIOUS THINGS
Rom Webster & Opa
North, South Carolina: An Evening Well Spent
Sometimes the best vacations don't require reservations, hotel rooms, or even packing a suitcase. Sometimes all you need is a tank of gas, a couple of hours, and a sense of curiosity.
That's exactly what E.B. and Opa discovered during a Friday evening visit to the charming little town of North, South Carolina, where Highways 178 and 321 meet.
Down By The Rail Station
Our first stop was the Farmers Market at the old railroad station, where local growers and artisans had filled the market with fresh produce, homegrown vegetables, sweet melons, local meats, handmade crafts, jars of golden honey, and one of the finest slices of homemade banana nut bread we've enjoyed in a long time. There's something special about buying directly from the people who planted, baked, raised, or crafted what they're selling.
Old Historic Sites, Evening Walks, & Dessert
After browsing the market, we took a leisurely stroll through North's business district. Small towns have a pace all their own. You notice the old buildings, friendly smiles, and bits of history that are easy to miss when you're rushing down the Interstate.
One of those treasures was the historic E.T. Odom Blacksmith Shop, standing quietly near the railroad tracks as a reminder of the days when sparks flew from the forge and nearly every town depended on a skilled blacksmith.
Opa could not resist pulling out his iPad and going to work on a “Saltwater Color” painting of the old place. We call these “Saltwater Color” paintings because they look like a watercolor painting—but no water is involved. You use the watercolor tools in your apps (Photoshop, Procreate, etc.) to create the artwork.
Of course, no Friday evening adventure would be complete without dessert.
We wrapped up our visit at North's excellent Mexican restaurant, where a basket of hot, freshly made churros arrived alongside creamy vanilla ice cream, all finished with a generous drizzle of chocolate. It was the perfect ending to a delightful evening.
A Lifestyle That Works
Trips like this remind us that some of life's richest experiences are hiding just a few miles down the road.
If you can't make it to North, pick another small town near where you live. Spend two or three hours exploring its shops, talking with the locals, sampling the food, and discovering its history.
You might be surprised to find that your next favorite vacation is waiting just around the corner—and it doesn't even require taking time off from work.
Our Story
That’s our story, and we’re sticking to it!
What’s your story going to be next week? Make it something fun, peaceful, and affordable—visit a small town near you!
