Nancy, over at A Rural Journal, graciously allowed me to post this blatant commercial during her Rural Thursday Blog Hop.
As many know, Dave, my husband, died in November 2011 and life has been “interesting”…let’s face it, so many adjectives come to mind and all of them pertinent but I’ll go with “interesting” for now. -smile- However, life goes on, even in the midst of death, and it’s, too often, been a struggle to keep upright. Still and all, I choose happiness even on those days I’m not feeling too happy. Remember the old adage…fake it until you make it? So appropriate! Again, as many know, I’m writing a book to help others prepare for the financial fall-out, some of which can be prevented, that occurs after the death of a loved one. It doesn’t matter the marital status, gender or race, death is common to us all. One day, or night, we will die and leave our loved ones to deal with “after” as best they can. Trust me when I say this: it’s best to be better prepared than unprepared.
These past months have found me learning on God more than ever. Since Dave died, God has used this time to strengthen my faith, bolster my courage, has given me wisdom, has been my protector and my provider. Has it been easy? No, it’s been hard as nails and, frankly, I’d much rather go back to the way things were! But, I didn’t get a vote so I soldier on, daily asking God for wisdom, guidance, protection and what He would have me do.
One thing I’ve done is buy a two bedroom two bath condo in Cherry Grove, North Myrtle Beach, SC. Dave always loved the ocean, could swim like a fish and was a certified scuba diver. Me, I paddle like a dog with three legs but I loved the ocean because Dave loved the ocean. I’ve learned to snorkel and, while wearing a bell helmet, have walked on the ocean floor at a depth of twenty-five to thirty feet. That’s rather amazing to anyone who knows me and my fear of the ocean. Or, rather those things in the ocean!
Thistle Cove Cottage is available for rent but is not with an agency. I’d much rather rent to family, friends, friends of friends and folks I’ve met through blogging. The building has an elevator! and is on North Ocean Boulevard with a direct view of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a few blocks from Cherry Grove Pier and only two blocks away, within walking distance, of Boulineau’s, another Cherry Grove landmark. For more information on the area, read here, but, please know, I’m not recommending this rental agency.
The master bedroom has access to the balcony, as does the living room.
The Thistle Cove Cottage website is under construction and, hopefully, by week’s end, all photos and other information will be on site. If you have questions, please send me an e-mail at either gmail account…thistlecovefarms or thistlecovecottage. I’m excited about this new venture which will, hopefully, bless a lot of folks as well as generate income. If you tell someone about Thistle Cove Cottage and they rent from me, you’ll receive a monetary compensation as my way of saying “thank you”.
Nancy, thank you so very much for your kindness toward me! Readers, please visit those other bloggers who are participating in Rural Thursday Blog Hop; you’ll be glad you did!
Blessings ~ Nancy ~ God’s hand of providence on my life ~ Thistle Cove Cottage ~ Thistle Cove Farm ~
arrielle_p says
Looks like a nice place to have a vacation and this is nice cottage to rent so that I or we can enjoy the place so much. Thanks for this! 🙂
manila condominiums
IMGIRL says
How beautiful! My husband and I also love the beach. He lived in California for a while before we were married and always wanted to take me to the beach. Then he became ill and finances all on my income so there was no way. One day he entered a contest online and he won. It was 3 days and two nights in Newport Beach. Despite is not feeling well and the trip being so quick, he wanted to do it. It was the best trip we ever had. It was like God slowed the only full day we had and that was the closest to the beach that I have ever been. It was beautiful. Maybe one day, we will be rent your cottage!! Who knows! Thanks for sharing this and it looks beautiful. I know you will enjoy it as well as all the travelers you encounter.
Blessings,
Kim
vicki says
Sandra- your beach home is beautiful– I know this will be the perfect respite for you- a place to commune with God and your beloved Dave. I see many beach walks in your future–
Vicki
Erica says
You are so brave to share your story of loss here on your blog. My heart reaches out to you.
The cottage is lovely and I'm sure it reminds you so much of your husband…
Rita says
My favorite thing is getting to spend time at the beach. Myrtle Beach has long been on my bucket list as well.
Looking forward to seeing if this is something we could manage.
Wish you all the best in your new adventure.
Maa says
Sandra, It's been a while since I visited and to see how far you've come is unbelievable. Makes me so pleased for you. I hope life continues to get better and better, you certainly desrve it. All the best to yoy. Hugs Sue
EG CameraGirl says
Looks like a lovely spot and sounds like a promising venture. I wish you all the best!
Jeanne says
Thistle Cove Cottage looks just lovely, and so glad that you are finding God's strength in this hard time. You should be proud of your self for moving forward one step at a time!!
Yael from Home Garden Diggers says
I have never been to Myrtle Beach, but the spot looks beautiful as does the interior. If I do make it to Myrtle Beach, this would be a place I would like staying. Wishing you great success with your endeavor.
Yael from Home Garden Diggers
Lisa Lynn says
Congratulations on your new condo cottage! It is wonderful that you are filling your life with affirmation and hope for the future.
I love the condo 🙂 I always dream of going someplace warm in the winter. On my husband's teacher salary, it hasn't been possible yet. But I remain hopeful that we will be able to save for a dream vacation to a place like yours. If we do, I'll keep this in mind!
Thanks for sharing! And thanks for visiting me at Little Homestead on the Hill 🙂
Grandma Barb's This and That says
How wonderful that you have purchased Thistle Cove Cottage. I would love to rent it if I could ever afford a vacation to Myrtle Beach.
Thanks for visiting me today and your nice comment.
Wishing you all the best.
Anonymous says
Sounds wonderful… hoping it all works just as you plan!
Danielle says
Thank you so much for stopping by and saying hello…North Myrtle Beach is a beautiful area…there is one shopping place I like there…I can't remember the name but it is built like a boardwalk. Hugs and prayers as you continue to embrace your future while holding lovingly to your past. God Bless.
Farmgirl Cyn says
Gah! I am so excited for you! It is bee-you-tee-ful!
~from my front porch in the mountains~ says
This is great news, Sandra! I love that you have done this 🙂 Can't wait to see the site for this. You are always full of good surprises!
xo, misha
Buttons says
Oh Sandra Nancy called you that so I thought I could also call you that I hope you do not mind.
You are an inspiration a strong women who with our book I am sure you will help many women or men in the same situation.
What a great investment you are very wise. I would certainly rent that beautiful place. I really must get on that whole need a passport thing.
Keep doing what you are doing you are doing great as far as I can see.
Good luck on the new venture. HUGS B
Leovi says
I like those pictures, I especially like the first, wonderful.
KathyB. says
I think this is exciting Sandra, and if I ever find we are traveling east to your neck of the woods i will definitely check into this cottage. I will also remember this should any of my friends visit the area.
Deanna says
Dear One,
Thinking about you and this adventure you are on.
Sweet Summer blessings to you,
d
Lois Christensen says
We love Myrtle Beach! I will keep this in mind! Looks beautiful!
Pom Pom says
That's wonderful, Sandra! What a great idea! Your cottage looks so comfy!
HoodPhoto says
Just a quick note to let you know that starting tomorrow, I will begin hosting a new photo meme on my blog. Please come join me at "Orange You Glad It's Friday", and post a photo displaying a little or a lot of orange, my favorite color! Hope to see you there!
(GBS) NewsFromTheHill says
Good for you!!!!!
When you are next there, be SURE to go to Brookgreen Gardens (south of MB) …. I promise you that you won't be disappointed. It's absolutely one of the most marvelous places that I've ever visited.
Nancy Claeys says
It's a gorgeous place, Sandra — my boys do a bit of traveling and I will certainly let them know about your condo on the beach. xo
Val says
Wow! What a big move! Good for you. And impressive about your ocean floor-walks. 🙂
Lynne says
I was surprised and thrilled when I read, "One thing I have done is buy . . .". Good for you . . . I for one will keep Thistle Cove Cottage in my memory bank for a much needed winter holiday. How exciting . . . Now I know why our toes are wet . . .
Whimsey Creations says
Good for you – it looks like a very nice place! My in-laws used to go to Myrtle Beach for several weeks every year and loved it there.
Debbie says
You could knock me over with a feather! Good for you! I've never entertained (seriously) the idea of going that direction, but it is a lovely place in the magazines and now I have a personal connection through you!:D
I'm so glad you've found something so nice and that you'll have a great place to vacation to. How about renting us your farm while you're at the beach. That is entertaining to me!
Debbie
alissa apel says
I can only imagine how interesting your life must be. Wishing you healing and hugs!
The cottage is so cute!
http://theapels.blogspot.com/2012/08/fun-and-games-outside.html
jAne says
preparation ::
there but by the grace of God go i … but i may. so your forthcoming book will be bought (by me). thank you.
as to your condo in north myrtle beach .. hmmm. my daughter lives in myrtle beach now. that's an entirely 'nuther story (deep heavy sigh..and the root of much grief * prodigal). if ever we venture there, i will most definitely rent your sweet place. thank you for so kindly offering…
blessings,
"jAne"
ArtMuseDog and Carol says
Being a widow myself ~ know the difficulties ~ you seem to be doing well ~ as can be expected ~ Your rental property looks very appealing ~ so should rent well ~ healing hugs to you ~ (A Creative Harbor)
Lisa @ Two Bears Farm says
I'm glad you shared this today! We already took a beach vacation this year, but I will certainly keep this in mind for next summer, if we are able to afford a vacation then!