Chimney Rock NC

After the wedding, Michael decide to go to Chimney Rock state park, he was sure that I will like it and he was right. For us it was kind of honey moon trip. We went first to Chimney Rock Village just outside of the state park. A quaint, quirky community full of friendly folks, the Village offers an eclectic array of shops and eateries, as well as campgrounds, motels and the historic Esmeralda Inn. Be sure to take time to meander down the Rocky Broad River Walk, a beautiful path that winds around the Rocky Broad River. One of amazing art of the locals was in the village that I thought that be worth to capture. 

Chimney Rock state park have a lot to offer, from panoramic views to hiking trails for all levels, from up-close animal encounters to bird watching, there is an experience for everyone. The tickets are pretty expensive comparing to other parks, but it was worth it.

 

From the top Chimney Rock, above the valley you can see more than 75 miles across Lake Lure, the Blue Ridge Mountains and Carolina Piedmont. With unique hiking trails, the Park has something for everyone including the family-friendly Great Woodland Adventure. More adventurous hikers will want to take the Outcroppings and Skyline trails for some of the most unique views of the Park. We choose to climb the rock by stairs, It was the only option of the time of our visit, not easy buy each time we climbed higher the view was more and more amazing till we reach the top. 

We stopped at lake Lure after watching it from the top of Chimney Rock, its pretty huge lake. You can enjoy a wide variety of water activities, ranging from canoeing and fishing to pleasure boating and water skiing. Both motor and non-motorized boats enjoy the lake. Just remember, you need an annual boat permit before placing a private boat on the lake. That time we didnt need to worry about the permit because we did not have a boat, but just for the knowledge. The lake is the number one attraction and the reason so many families visit Lake Lure year after year. Visitors come to enjoy lake sparkling clean beach area, and the incredible Blue Ridge mountain range including Chimney Rock.

Broad River SC, USA

 

Our travel journey start at Broad river in SC pretty much close to town  Gaffney. Michael wanted to share with me his childhood, where he was spending the most time in by himself or with friends. We stopped first at downtown Gaffney buying hot dogs for lunch at the river because close by there is no shops or restaurants. 

The Broad River is a principal tributary of the Congaree River, about 150 miles  long, in western North Carolina and northern South Carolina in the United States.  Broad river dam was very magical and calm place, in some sense I understood why Michael choose to spend time here in his childhood and adulthood. We eat Lunch and jump from stone to stone to have different view from each angel. I felt like hugging the surrounding and Michael in it, when he expose me to one of his escaping corners. A 15-mile segment of the Broad River between Cherokee and York counties was designated a State Scenic River in May 1991. The designation extends from Ninety-Nine Islands Dam to the confluence with the Pacolet River. The Broad Scenic River presents an undeveloped riverfront of Piedmont forests and pasturelands. The riparian forest is home to diverse plant and animal life. Eagles, ospreys, and other birds frequent the river corridor. The area surrounding the river is rich with historical features from Smith's ford to Native American fish traps.

 

 

Meeting at Charlotte NC

 

The Charlotte airport thrummed with a joyful energy. A cacophony of greetings, rushed goodbyes, and excited chatter bounced off the polished floors. In the midst of it all, Eden stood, a beacon of quiet elegance amidst the chaos. She held a worn copy of "Pride and Prejudice," her escape route in case her flight ran late again. Eden had been dreading this trip. But the moment she caught a glimpse of him weaving through the crowd, a smile tugged at her lips. 

 He was late. 

 Michael. He was even more striking than his photos suggested. His dark hair was slightly ruffled, as if he'd just run a hand through it in exasperation. His eyes, the color of warm honey, scanned the crowd, and when they met hers, a genuine smile lit up his face. “Eden?” he asked, his voice a low rumble that sent a pleasant shiver down her spine. She nodded, closing her book with a soft thud. "Michael. You're late." He winced. "I know, I am so sorry.  Charlotte traffic is no joke." He extended a hand, and the simple gesture felt charged with a surprising current. "But I’m here now." His handshake was warm and firm. “Forgive me?” “Forgiven.” 

The word slipped out before she could think to play it cool. They had been corresponding online for months, sharing their dreams, their fears, and their mutual love for classic literature, Music. But meeting him in person was different. The digital connection had been a spark; here, in the bustling airport, it felt like kindling ready to burst into flame. "I was starting to think you were a figment of my imagination, conjured up by too many late-night coffees and Jane Austen novels," she confessed, surprising herself with her honesty.

He chuckled, a sound that resonated deep within her. “Believe me, I’m real. And I’m starving. How about we grab some Dinner? We are going to my home in Gaffnet.  As they walked side-by-side, the initial awkwardness melted away. They talked easily, their voices blending with the music that was playing in the truck radio. They discussed their shared travel stories. The Truck  was small and cozy, tucked away from the airport's clamor. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating the dust motes dancing in the air. As they sat side by side.  Eden felt a sense of joy blossom within her. This trip, which had once seemed so daunting, suddenly felt like an opportunity. Maybe, just maybe, this chance encounter in the Charlotte airport was the start of something truly special. 

As Michael’s honey-colored eyes met hers across the truck cabin, Eden knew, with a certainty that warmed her from the inside out, that destiny had a funny way of leading you to where you were meant to be. And right now, she was exactly where she wanted to be. 

 

USA - Endless possibilities to Happiness

Flying to USA, for the first time in my life, so exited. Planning to stay 3 weeks and meet the love of my life. I can see so many possibilities for new start, new life, new relationship, new marriage. Everything new, it was scary too. But adventures is in my soul and I was ready to give it a try.

Was talking with him till late in the night and packed my small suitcase, will be enough for 3 weeks that I am gonna stay there. I was happy for a change after living with my mom for almost 2 years after my Dad died and she requested that I will move in with her because she feel so lonely. I understand what is loneliness before and after my life story began.

That is the song that I received in the morning that I was suppose to fly to USA, thinking that its a good sign for new beginning. I missed my train, was thinking that every delay its for good. Not long before I came out from train accident and terribly was scared to go on trains, but I took the chance and went on train to the airport. I want to know what love is, I want you to show me. 

moving to a different country it’s scary and need to consider several things before you decide to move.

1. Money - saving money prior moving abroad it’s a good idea. Save enough for living at least for 2 months living.
2. Language - learning the language will make it much easier. Always listen what people say around you and catch all the common phrases.
3. saftey- learn the area you are moving to, and the embassy recommendations. Make sure you have travel insurance if you become sick or need any medical services.
4. communication - make sure you communicate with your love ones through Skype, emails, WhatsApp, facebook etc. remember to make friends as they will be your second family.
5. Failure - try to enjoy your experience. If you decide to go back home it’s not a failure, it’s about your adventure and your life. You tried it always could end different or in success.

Adopting those thoughts and knowledge, I was on my way to experience my journey in life.