We arrived at Cheraw State Park around 2 p.m. on the 15th. It took a little over 3 hours, mostly on Rt. 95, then at exit 164, we headed west on Rt 52.

Living in Beaufort County, we really get an unrealistic view of South Carolina. Now I understand why our county is last on the state’s list for school and other funding. We traveled through some towns that have been hit very hard in this down economy. Quite sobering.

The long drive to the park office had me itching to be unpacked and out exploring. The staff at the park rolled out the red carpet. This is my first experience as an Artist-in-Residence. I hope to have more opportunities, but I will tell you, the bar has been set!

Rob and I settled into cabin #8. That’s our trusty mode of transport, compliments of the state park’s golf club. We could pick up a cart each morning as early as 6 a.m., and then needed to return it by 8 p.m. Never did make it there at 6 a.m. but got pretty close a couple of days 🙂

Our cabin was cute. On the right side was a cement pad with a picnic table and grill that was sheltered by a live oak. The cabin had a screened porch with 2 rockers, inside we found a decent sized living/dining area that included a queen-size Murphy bed, a very small kitchen (I was so glad I made salads to take with us), a bedroom with twin beds and a mini, and I do mean mini, bathroom. All in all, we were very comfy and air conditioned…. satellite TV too!
We spent the evening down by Lake Juniper. Don’t you just love that name? There are a small grouping of Cypress trees along the far shore. I understand that the head waters of Lake Juniper are loaded with Cypress.

For Tuesday, we planned to explore the Red-cockaded Woodpecker’s nesting area. Stay tuned 🙂