Nelson's Neighborhood

It's has been a bittersweet year for Nelwater . Professionally, we have increased our clientele and spent much of the producing commercials, marketing plans and more. Personally, I had to deal with mom's heart attack on July 14th. She was supported by ECMO for weeks and there were plenty of times that I didn't think she would live. When she did awaken, she had a pressure sore that turned worse...which lead to the amputation of her leg from the shin down on Black Friday. She's stayed with us and I've cherish each day.  I am thankful for the year I've had, even though it's been nutty. I'm grateful that I get to write for Lowcountry Parent magazine and The Post & Courier monthly. And I'm especially grateful for all my clients who were so great during this time.  There's still some time left to get holiday gifts. Here's some great ideas. Happy Chanukah to everyone! Merry Christmas and may 2012 be the best year yet!  FROM IRVIN~HOUSE...

With Christmas 10 days away, Cru Catering wants to make the holidays a little brighter and easier for you by offering a pick-up option for a full Christmas dinner. The last day to order is Monday, December 19 by 12:00 p.m. Orders can be placed by calling (843) 534-CHEF (2433) and will be available for pick up on Saturday, December 24 between 12:00 - 2:00p.m. at the Cru Catering headquarters located at 1784 Harmon Street.  This savory menu will have your guests wanting to dine at your house every holiday season.  The Christmas Dinner Menu Available for Pick Up Includes: (minimum 4 people) Spiced Rum Glazed Christmas Ham with Traditional Ham Jus Roasted Hazelnut Stuffing Cranberry Biscuits & Cheddar, Black Peppercorn Biscuits with Apple Compound Butter Baby Spinach Salad with Housemade Pancetta Croutons, Pomegranate Seeds, Roasted Gold and Red Beets with Spiced Vinaigrette Smashed Red Potatoes Honey Glazed Baby Carrots ...

This past Saturday was the Second Annual Small Business Saturday to follow Black Friday and according to the media, it went off really well. I do find it ironic that it already has to have a major corporate sponsor behind it, but at least they're trying to shine a light on small business.  This upcoming Saturday you can support your local small business by shopping at Sweet Olive at 264 N. Shelmore Boulevard in I'On as they celebrate their Holiday Open House. There will be sweets and treats along with wine and of course, some great gifts! The wonderful gals at Sweet Olive also gift wrap - and it's one of the best things, because it means you don't have to!  For more, visit www.sweetolivegarden.com & PLEASE buy at least 30% of your Christmas list local, it means much more than you know. Here's some cute ideas from Sweet Olive: 

  Enjoy nightly sunsets at Hope Town’s newest resort, Firefly Sunset Resort. Set on the Sea of Abaco on Elbow Cay in the Bahamas, the new Firefly Sunset Resort is now open for the season. Sustainably built by Firefly Vodka co-creator, Jim and Ann Irvin of Charleston, South Carolina, this whimsical resort offers seven villas and cottages with full size kitchens, three pools, a snorkeling reef, WIFI and an on-site restaurant, Firefly Bar & Grill. Firefly Sunset Resort is already a local favorite for its nightly sunsets and delicious cocktails.  Located just 200 miles east of West Palm Beach, FL and 100 miles north of Nassau, Hope Town is a quaint village on the beautiful island of Elbow Cay. Located on Elbow Cay, the resort features seven beautifully appointed rental properties. "Mint 2 Be" the honeymoon suite, sits nestled  nicely on the edge of a beautiful coral cliff, suspended over the Sea of Abaco. Designed for romance, this two bedroom/two bathroom...