Sunflower Photobook

Sunflowers Captured By My iPhone 8

By Laurie Bower Epps

I knew I was in need of headshots since my last photoshoot was in either 2012 or 2013. Impulsively, I clicked on a link embedded on Facebook to have professional sunflower pictures done. I chose sunflowers because they're one of my favorite flowers. But again, things didn't go as planned. My youngest is so cute, she sort of shanghai'd the appointment. But I'm sorta glad she did, because these are the type of photos that you blow up and hang on the wall. So buckle up, fashion just got cuter.

1826 Bistro

By Laurie Bower Epps

Something about the town of Pendleton, SC just speaks to me. One can really feel the history all around them, and it fosters a sense of solidarity. Prominently situated on Pendleton Square is building that's been through many transformations. Currently serving as a restaurant, dressing up for a meal there seemed to be the best way to get a glimpse inside and into its varied past.

The Tanglewood Mansion

By Laurie Bower Epps
On a stifling hot summer day, I opted for a local adventure. Adjacent to the Pendleton Public Library are the ruins of the Tanglewood Mansion. A few years ago, you could balance yourself on the foundation walls. But the former mansion has been enclosed by a fence for visitor safety. 

The Ballenger House in Seneca

By Laurie Bower Epps

When I saw the forecast, I did see a break in the typical thundershower pattern we have in summer last Friday, so I decided to get out there for a blog while the weather was good. The Fourth of July has always been one of my favorite holidays. Since I've lived in the Upstate of South Carolina, that usually means fireworks shows are postponed due to the rain. But down here we just roll with it. Lately, I've mainly been straightening my hair, but with all the humidity, I went with a more Bohemian look. It was much easier to achieve with my naturally curly hair. 

Mother & Daughter Date Lavender Picking

By Laurie Bower Epps

As a young woman, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to study abroad in France. The beginning of my stay, I was in a study-tour group. My group of 30 American students toured the majority of France in the summer of 1985. One of the stops that stuck with me was touring Provence and Grasse. Grasse is where most of the world's perfume is made. The images and aromas of the lavender fields will be with me forever. Nostalgia got the better of me when I saw a local farm sponsoring a U-Pick on Facebook. Since my daughter is studying environmental science, and the farm is located roughly ten minutes from her house, I couldn't go without her. So my story got to make a full circle, and I got to share my memories with her.

Liberty Hall Bed & Breakfast

By Laurie Bower Epps

Since so many of my blogs occur outside historic residences, it will be of no surprise that I found this little gem where you can be part of the magic. Something about this home just called to me. The owner, Susan, has done a wonderful job with the grounds, and with the house itself. I literally would rubber neck it just to see it as I'd drive by coming back from work or the mall or wherever. Being in the South, I've learned it's a good idea to let folks know you're coming, otherwise, you're libel to get shot. Today, you're in for a treat, this bed and breakfast is a real beauty.

The South Carolina Agricultural Museum

By Laurie Bower Epps

I've lived in the Upstate for 13 years, but frankly, all I thought Clemson was known for is football. It wasn't until a couple of years ago, that I found out Clemson University also boasts due to having one of the best agricultural programs in the country. Being a girl from the suburbs of Atlanta myself, I do have a little country in my soul as well. (But a very little...) As a young girl, I did wear braids and got my 4H in livestock. Now that I'm rekindling my own little herb garden, I just had to check the agricultural museum out.