Cypress Gardens

This spot is magic. I'd discovered it through an incredible photography blog, Q Avenue Photo, and jotted it down on our list of places to go while on our trip. It's about 45 minutes away from where we were staying in Mount Pleasant, SC. The tall cypress trees cast their reflection across the water, which is black due to tannins, a chemical naturally released from plants. There are row boats that you can take out for free to do a little exploring on your own or guided boats for a small fee. We went on a guided boat to get a feel for the layout of the area. We were lucky enough to see some alligators! These alligators are pretty elusive and stay away from boats and people, so we were excited when we spotted one from our boat, about 10 feet away. If the pictures look familiar, it might be because it was one of the filming locations for both the Notebook and the Patriot - something that we didn't find out until we got back from our boat ride. 

We got out on the water around 11, before the midday heat drove us to find cooler places. Everything was quiet and still, and the water was perfectly glassy. From the shore, a completely open expanse of water stretched out before becoming dotted with tall, straight trees. The open water was a mirror, reflecting a flawless inverted image of each tree. Spencer and I were completely silent for most of the ride, soaking in all the sights and sounds. Three old, southern ladies behind us chatted away about some of the craziest things, including their supposed knowledge of swamps, especially alligators. I was intently focused on the beautiful surroundings, but at times their voices would interrupt and I would have to laugh because it was undoubtedly something absurd. It's places like this, hidden away in their small corner of the world that make me sad that I don't have more years to see it all.