Better Off Wet Water Lifestyle Magazine January 2023

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PUBLISHER

Benjamin Chewning ben@betteroffwet.com

SALES

Megan Chewning megan@betteroffwet.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Theresa Barzyk TIBCreativeStudio@gmail.com

WEB Juan De Leon info@webdevelopmentanddesign.com

CONTACT

Better Off Wet Media Group 352-238-7009 www.betteroffwet.com info@betteroffwet.com

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Better Off Wet , all rights reserved. No part of this magazine or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted without the express written consent of the Publisher.

ARTICLES

TAMPA BAY WATCH

At the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center on the St. Pete Pier, visitors are invited to learn about the local ecosystem and Tampa Bay Watch’s past and current work to restore it.

HOLY CATFISH...

WHAT A CHANGE IN THE HOLY CITY!

B.O.W. takes a trip to Charleston, South Carolina; a beautiful city with tons of history and one of the most beautiful landscapes imaginable on the water, in the Southern United States. The city is growing though… almost busting at the seams.

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VISIT MERTAILOR’S MERMAID AQUARIUM ENCOUNTER

Explore the underwater world as never before! As you cross the threshold into the Encounter you will enter a tropical rain forest and visit our rescued macaws and parrots. Continuing your journey towards the Bay; you will have the opportunity to interact with some of nature’s most amazing sea creatures such as the Mantis Peacock Shrimp, a freshwater exhibit to show you what exactly lies under the local springs, and more!

LITTLE JETTIES - “A GREAT PLACE TO SPEND THE DAY… JUST NOT THE NIGHT”

If, you are visiting Jacksonville, Florida… take a trip over to Little Jetties, near Mayport and enjoy some time off the beaten path, on the water. Read to see how B.O.W.’s trip had an unexpected twist!

Discover Tampa Bay at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

DISCOVER TAMPA BAY

at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

Discover Tampa Bay at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

Located on the over-water walkway approaching the St. Pete Pier head, the Discovery Center features roughly 3,000 square feet of indoor space — 2,000 of which are exhibits that tell the story of Tampa Bay’s unique ecosystem.

At the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center on the St. Pete Pier, visitors are invited to learn about the local ecosystem and Tampa Bay Watch’s past and current work to restore it. Our exhibit gallery features interactive displays, live animals, and a touch tank. Educational programs and boatbased eco tours are offered daily.

The Ribbit Exhibit features a variety of live native and nonnative frog and toad species that can be found in Florida. Visitors will discover why

native species are important, the dangers of invasive species, and how to tell them apart.

The 240 gallon terrapin exhibit is home to Bertha and Ruby, two rare ornate diamondback terrapins, classified as a vulnerable species. Come meet them and learn how they are different from turtles and tortoises.

Estuaries are nicknamed the “nurseries of the sea” because they are prime breeding grounds, providing protection for young fish and other marine life to hide and eat. In Tampa Bay, red mangroves are an essential nursery habitat. The Living Estuary tank showcases some of the species that depend on these unique, salttolerant trees.

The interactive spin browser high-

lights the history of development, destruction, and restoration in Tampa Bay. Learn how our estuary ecosystem has changed over time and find out about Tampa Bay Watch’s past and present work to protect it.

Discover the many microscopic organisms drifting in Tampa Bay! Our estuary is full of phytoplankton and zooplankton. While at the Discovery Center you can peer through the microscopes to view familiar organisms, such as sea stars, in their earliest floating phases of life. Live plankton samples are collected and shared daily.

Single-use, disposable plastic is the most common type of marine debris, and it’s a real problem for the ocean. This sculpture represents the 1,500 plastic bottles thrown away every second in the United States. Visit this exhibit to learn about plastic’s effects on marine life, Tampa Bay Watch’s beach cleanups, and what you can do to help!

Can you find your home on the critically detailed, laser-cut Birchwood map of Tampa Bay? This work of art by cartographer Dean Forss makes it easy to understand the layout of the bay and the locations of Tampa Bay Watch’s many restoration projects. Oysters play a crucial role in maintaining and improving Tampa Bay’s water quality. The interactive Oysters at Work exhibit shows how these filter feeders remove pollution from the estuary and provide habitat for marine life. In 2021, Tampa Bay Watch built and installed more than 1,000 reef balls as part of our Community Oyster Reef Enhancement Program. The touch tank features some of the local marine life you can find in Tampa Bay. Stop by to learn about and interact with sea stars, sea urchins, hermit crabs, horseshoe crabs, live shells, and more. It’s fun for all ages. Seahorses are an important indicator species, meaning their presence can tell us about the current health of the

Discover Tampa Bay at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

bay. View live seahorses (and some of their close relatives) in the seahorse tank, and find out how Tampa Bay Watch’s restoration work and research is helping the local seahorse population grow!

Our oceans have been given different names, but they are all one connected body of water. As Florida’s largest estuary, the health of Tampa Bay is linked to the health of the entire ocean. View the One Planet One Ocean video to learn more.

The Discovery Center sandbox projects a topographical map representing our coastline and the animals that live here. Pile the sand high and create an island or dig deep and uncover some interesting creatures! This exhibit is a favorite among young visitors.

An invasive species is an organism that causes ecological or economic harm in a new environment where it is not native. Lionfish arrived in Florida more than 25 years ago via the aquarium trade. These ornate IndoPacific fish are voracious predators that reproduce quickly, and they are having detrimental effects on our ecosystem. View live lionfish, which were caught locally, and find out what’s being done about these damaging invaders. The Discovery Center also offers lionfish dissections weekly!

A living shoreline acts as an important barrier, protecting our coastline by absorbing wave energy which ultimately reduces erosion, filters our water, and supports the growth of marine life. The living shoreline exhibit includes a video and an interactive exhibit that demonstrates how natural shorelines can protect property from waves and storms.

All text for this article is from: tbwdiscoverycenter.org

Phone: (727) 291-4103

Monday - Thursday: 10 AM to 5 PM

Friday - Saturday: 10 AM to 7 PM

Sunday: 10 AM to 6 PM

Discover Tampa Bay at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

Discover Tampa Bay at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery

American Picnics and Better Off Wet Charters have teamed up to offer unique and customizable on the water picnic cruises and sunset cruises! American Picnics has created a time-capsule into another era with their Luxury Picnics and are sure to bring elegance and charm to your special day. Combine this extraordinary picnic experience with a comfortable cruise along Florida’s Nature Coast and a beautiful West coast sunset, to have an unforgettable day. All trips are customizable, be sure to let us know your thoughts. Swimming, island exploration, and fishing are available for those who want to maximize their day of adventure, on the water.

Call today to start planning your amazing American Picnic! americanpicnics.com

Suwannee

Holy Catfish...

By: Benjamin J. Chewning

Holy Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

What a Change in the Holy City!

Holy Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

In my opinion, it would be rare to go back to a place, whether large city or small town, after over a decade and not see change. In fact, to take it a step further, I believe it would be rare to not to see a “ton” of change. That being said, I would usually be thinking of change in a manner that would be mostly illustrated by the advent of new buildings, homes, neighborhoods, stores, etc. While on a recent trip to visit family and friends in Charleston, South Carolina, I saw those same familiar “changes”. There are many tower cranes present, many new buildings (that weren’t there the last time I was in town), new restaurants, and many new folks. But, the change that surprised me most was not a change you can take a picture of. I spent much of my life in South Carolina and went to dive school in North Charleston, at the old Navy base (closed in 1996), on the Cooper River. I am by no means a historian or scholar on the city, the state, or southern culture. But, I am a “Southerner” who grew up in the South and who knows a thing or two

Holy Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

Holy Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

about southern hospitality, manners, and what is expected of folks who also grew up in the South. While going to school in the Charleston area, all of these things mentioned were a part of my life there and a part of the life of the folks all around me who inhabited the area. While there are many folks there who are instantly recognizable as folks who view things the same as me; there is also an entirely “new to me” group of folks who have certainly not been brought up with those same southern values. I am not judging anyone who doesn’t see things the same way I see them, talk the way I talk, or go out of their way to be polite…I’m just saying that the population seems much different than that of what I remember. After a little research, I quickly understood why the change in such a southern city. Just in the past year the city has had a population growth rate of 1.4%. It is said that there are around

30 people per day, moving into just the Charleston Metro Area. This may not seem like a lot but, it does mean that it is 4 times the national average. Far removed from living in South Carolina, it is easy for me to see the changes taking place and anyone who has been living there this past decade, who isn’t walking or taking an Uber, can see the change as well. Driving on the same roads with the new influx of folks will definitely get a few tempers flared, as I saw firsthand with my friends and family.

While there are many changes to population, there are many things that have not changed and hopefully will not. The historical city architecture, waterways, and skyline are a few things I personally hope never change. You can look across the skyline from the water and see the steeples of churches towering above the other buildings and structures, “the Holy City”. No building can be

built higher than Charleston’s tallest church steeple. While I am typically not of fan of zoning agencies or the restrictions they place on landowners, I have to say I love this one. First, as a Christian, I like the idea that a governmental agency still recognizes something about the church or anything with a spiritual nature. That in itself seems extremely rare in the day and age in which we live now. But, second, I really don’t think most folks, like me, who love the water, want every waterfront city to look like Fort Lauderdale and Miami. I lived in Martin County Florida for some time and always appreciated the fact they didn’t allow for any structures over 3 stories, for that same reason. Whether you are a “Southerner” or not it makes no difference in appreciating the beautiful city that is Charleston, South Carolina; her beautiful waterways and her geographical makeup are exquisite and one of a

Holy Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

Holy Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

Holy Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

Holy Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

Catfish... What a Change in the Holy City!

Holy

kind. The architecture in Charleston has been featured in more artwork than you could shake the proverbial stick at, the city’s history is as rich as Uncle Scrooge’s bank account, and if you have never visited, it is in my humble opinion that you should, especially if you consider yourself a water lover. According to a Google search, there are nearly 5,000 restaurants in the Charleston area. So, that means plenty of opportunity for fresh

seafood and excellent dining options.

Charleston offers many boat tours, if you don’t visit with your own vessel.

The green and white ferry pictured in this article will take you to Fort Sumter and give you a water view of the city for just thirty two bucks. A little internet searching will provide you with many other affordable options, as well.

In closing, I have gone through many changes in my own life, some good…

some bad…and, through the changes there are still plenty of folks in my life I love and who love me back. Charleston, the Holy City, has gone through many more changes than I will ever go through and will certainly still be loved by many, no matter what the change; and I am sure I will continue to say “holy catfish”, what a change every time I go back to the Holy City in the future.

Mermaids…folklore or nonfiction…well, after seeing them in person, we have to go with non-fiction! As soon as we walked through the door of Mertailor’s, we were greeted by a very nice woman, who was happy to tell us all about the Mermaid Aquarium Encounter. In fact, everyone working there was extremely nice and informative. We enjoyed our visit tremendously and would highly recommend to anyone that the price of admission is well worth it, for the experience they provide…educational and informative. Make the time to see it for yourself. Please, continue reading to find out how the Mermaid Aquarium Encounter came to be and what they are all about.

About Mertailor’s:

After making thousands of dreams come true, what could be next for the company Mertailor? All his life, the Mertailor himself, Eric Ducharme has created tails. Weeki Wachee Springs being his main inspiration; young Eric was enchanted watching them swim in those flowing tails through the water. He began making tails as soon as possible, by the age of sixteen officially becoming the Mertailor. His tails found him astounding success. From appearances on Drag Race, to Lady Gaga herself ordering from him, Mertailor has become an internationally acclaimed brand. One of the top tail makers in the world! It was around 2019 the idea of becoming a retail store began to take place. Not an aquarium originally, but a store with mermaid shows.

B.O.W. Visits Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter

B.O.W. Visits Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter

The aquarium came much later into production. The plan was to buy a huge tank to decorate the store, where customers could watch a mermaid show in the store to help encourage them to buy. Performing had always been a dream of Eric’s, one that he briefly experienced working with Weeki Wachee. But as his tail making career took off, his dreams to perform were temporarily paused. Now, performance was back and ready to lend a hand to his career. On top of his grand idea, Mertailor was outgrowing its previous home in Crystal River, FL. It was time for a change!

The location of 4100 W Gulf to Lake Hwy, previously a furniture store; was set for the new mermaid tail shop. The first weekend of June 2020 was when Mertailor officially set up shop in Lecanto. In the back still sit our sewing stations, a silicone lab, and the main hub of Mertailor tails. The team placed down a lease for a 15,000-gallon aquarium tank just before moving in. However, there were still some major bumps in the road. It was Eric’s mother, Candy Ducharme who asked the question that would lead to the start of the Encounter; “What are you going to do when there are no mermaids in the tank?”

B.O.W. Visits Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter

The question was answered by the talking Macaws Eric had rescued over the years. The Macaws flooded his house and backyard aviary, and all were beautiful animals. Eric built an aviary in the new location that his birds immediately claimed as their own. As he watched his birds flutter and flap their wings, another idea came to his mind. What if they also had a fish tank guests could look at? Just like that he watched as the store transformed into something more than a place to spend money. With the addition of each tank, the planed retail store went from 4000 sq. ft. to a mere 500 sq. ft.

Looking at all the animals he had collected, Eric realized Citrus County needed a place like this; an educational facility where people could experience life under the sea and all its wondrous creatures. Thus, the Aquarium was born. More than a simple show, the Encounter would be a place where people could learn something important – something that would inspire them to protect animals. To protect the beauty and grace that awaits under the sea.

On December 20th, 2021, Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter was born. We have been growing steadily and strongly ever since! Ironically, the 15,000-gallon performance tank ordered in 2020 was the last tank to arrive in early 2022. New exhibits, new mermaids, new shoes, and so much more excitement is always washing over us. This is only the beginning for the Encounter! We hope you’ll watch us grow more with each passing day!

A word from Mertailor’s (An Interactive Aquatic Adventure for all Ages):

Explore the underwater world as never before! As you cross the threshold into the Encounter you will enter a tropical rain forest and

B.O.W. Visits Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter

B.O.W. Visits Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter

visit our rescued macaws and parrots. Continuing your journey towards the Bay; you will have the opportunity to interact with some of nature’s most amazing sea creatures such as the Mantis Peacock Shrimp, a freshwater exhibit to show you what exactly lies under the local springs, and more! Our exhibitions include two touch tanks – one full of sea stars and urchins, and the affectionately nicknamed Ray Bay! There, our variety of friendly sting rays will happily fly up and accept a gentle stroke. You will finish your journey in front of our 15,000-gallon Caribbean Saltwater Aquarium where you might even see a mermaid or two!

4100 W Gulf to Lake Hwy Lecanto, FL 34461 USA

Phone: (352) 513-3278

Open: Monday - Sunday 11:00am - 4:00pm

Daily Mermaid Shows are at 11:30, 1:30, and 3:00.

Little Jetties

- “A Great Place to Spend the Day… Just Not the Night”

Little Jetties - “A Great Place to Spend the Day… Just Not the Night”

Helen Cooper Floyd Park is located on a peninsula southwest of Mayport, at the convergence of the Intracoastal Waterway and the St. Johns River. In 1830, bar pilots and fishermen established the village that eventually became Mayport. The park property was known for decades as the Little Jetties. In 1985, the City and officials of the Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament began efforts to co-develop the site as a home for the event. After the City leased the property from the Navy and made improvements, Little Jetties Park was dedicated in November 1992, but the tournament never moved there. Around the first part of 1999, the park was renamed. A Mayport native, Helen Cooper Floyd (1922-1998) was a schoolteacher, journalist, and historical researcher and writer. After moving with her family to Pascagoula, Mississippi around 1963, she eventually compiled and wrote two booklets and a book about the folk history of Mayport.

“Y’all headed to Jacksonville; I know a great spot for y’all to spend the night in your R.V.” This was what the B.O.W. Crew was told by a family member who spent years working at Mayport. While he was absolutely correct about being a great R.V. spot, to spend the night, the Naval Police didn’t think the same way. The B.O.W. Crew were headed up to Charleston and decided, as usual, to take it slow and check out some new “watery” areas, we hadn’t seen before. So, when we were told you could camp at “this little beach”, by the base, we thought perfect, it doesn’t’ get much better than camping on a beach, watching the sunrise and doing a little fishing, to boot. We had been fishing near Bayport, with Captain Buddy Price, earlier in the year and knew

exactly where the perfect spot the family member told us about was located. From the boat earlier in the year, we saw a good many people park on the beach that is Little Jetties; fishing, partying, picnicking, building fires, and generally having a blast. So, that’s where we pointed our R.V. for a night’s stay on our trip north, to South Carolina.

We arrived at Little Jetties just before sundown on a Wednesday evening. There were many folks there already, campfires blazing, music playing, rods in the hands of anglers looking for a fish they could fight, and just those looking for a sweet sunset picture. No one seemed to pay us or our R.V. any mind, upon arrival and we seemingly just fit right in. There were no other R.V.s present but there were

Little Jetties - “A Great Place to Spend the Day… Just Not the Night”

Little Jetties - “A Great Place to Spend the Day… Just Not the Night”

Parramore’s Fish Camp & RV Resort

campfires and presumably “campers”. After a little exploration and walking the dogs, we decided to head up the road a short piece to get some fresh blue crabs and fill our bellies. Once we returned from dinner, it hadn’t seemed if anyone had left from the time we were gone and it was well dark by then. We stayed outside and walked off dinner, watching folks catch fish, and watched numerous vessels pass by. Being full and tired, we turned on the heat, turned out the lights, and laid down to get some rest.

Sirens and strobe lights…that’s what we heard and saw next… Then there was the distinctive tap, tap, prolonged silence and tap of an official knock at the door. Upon opening the door we were greeted by a Navy policeman, who informed us we were onsite after hours and would need to leave. After telling him we hadn’t seen any signs stating the hours, he simply said “we were on U.S. Government property and it passed time to leave”. So, we did what anyone with any sense would do…we left. After boon docking in the local Wal-Mart parking lot, near Little Jetties, we returned early the next morning before sunrise, back to Little Jetties, for breakfast, a beautiful sunrise, and a little fishing. We were joined by many others just after daybreak. We ended up with a funny story and great time. We would say lesson learned, in this situation, that you should always do your research before pulling up and setting up camp. But, as we are writing this, I still cannot find anything that says no camping and the family member swears he has seen many campers there before. If, you are in Jacksonville area, this is a great little spot to stop and enjoy the day…just don’t overstay your welcome.

Location: 3600 Florida A1A, Jacksonville, FL 32233

Some information for this text from: https://www.coj.net/ (City of Jacksonville)

Parramore’s Fish Camp & RV Resort

ET READERS PICS

We at Better Off Wet would like to say thank you to all of our advertisers, supporters, and read ers! We had so much fun in 2022 exploring new places on the water and bringing those places to you in our digital magazine. Check out some of the pics submitted to us through social media in 2022.

We pray that all of our readers had a great 2022 out on the water, whether fishing, diving, paddling, or sunbathing. We also hope that you have a great 2023, on the water and make tons of great memories with your friends and family.

Happy New Year

from the Better Off Wet Crew!

BOATING DESTINATIONS

BOATING SPEARFISHING Frog gigging something we here at Better Off Wet feel every Florida outdoor lover should try. It is great (inexpensive) fun for the whole family trip, we know you’ll be hooked! Frog gigging has been an American nighttime sport for many years, especially here in Florida. The concept simple. We took one of our Better Off Wet girls, Christina We first went to the local bait & tackle shop and geared up with gig pole, gig and spot light. Frogs can be found in ponds, lakes, creeks or rivers (just listen and you will hear their high pitched chirplargest freshwater lake in Florida and went out on an airboat with one of the locals. An important aspect frog gigging the timing; you have to wait until it’s

FISHING I was invited on the show again at age 17. was fun to have the whole experirelatives. Sheri and still go out on the water to this day, and we consider her family. am now 20 years old and presently run called Into the Blue Charters LLC out of Little Torch Key. With my knowledge of the reefs and conditions, I’m able to putply photo/video with the help of my sister and mother for those that would like to record their ventures. My good friend, Darylguns so my clients can try them out during my charters. consider myself lucky to be doing something love and to be able to family, and friends. To me, this the ultimate job! Some last words know am Young Gun and have lot to learn, but want to share my experience with fellow is a dream come true for me, but will always remember our lost friends and divone simple rule, and that is, ALWAYS have dive partner/buddy. could save your life!

INSHORE FISHING

FRESH WATER

FISHING Postscript, by Sheri: I’ve been lucky to make some genuine friendships through spearfishing, and one of my dearest is with of seeing AJ grow from sweet boy when first met him into the talented young man he is today. He is one heck of spear-pressive fish, but I’m equally impressed by his captaining skills and his desire to help adventure in the water!

2023 RATE CARD

good and dark until you begin toning the shore line and lily pads. It was not minsee several pairs of glowing white eyes and the occasional white belly within our spotlight’s path.

GONE GIGGIN!

2016 Winter Issue AJ HallyFacebook: The Blue Wild Photo Credit: Alessandra Hally

fer any assistance you may need bagging the catch. Special thanks to Jeff Treece for taking Better Off Wet out!

EVENTS GEAR GEARED for KAYAKS The new DOA inch Shad was developed in response to the comheavy mass of plastic in the nose of this bait allows for maximum holding power when matched to DOA jighead. The large opening in the belly of the bait and recessed hook slot allow for flawless provides hard “pulse” in the water as well as natural flutter on the drop. This new bait has already performed impressively in both salt and freshwater. Doalures.com 877.DOA.LURES here. The Feel Free Lure, coming three sizes (10 ft, 11.5 ft and 13.5 ft), has all the amenities fishing fan could ask for. Rod and drink holders, ect. They also have all the handles molded into the hull so there no place for line to catch on as fish works its way around the boat. Also most comfortable seat in kayak fishing today! The Stern wheel makes getting your kayak to and from the water a breeze. Here atyou make the right decisions to maximize your on water experience. Sweetwaterkayaks.com SWEET RIDE GEAR ADVERTISEMENT STUART, Fla. All recreational vessels must carry on board at least one approved wearable-type life jacket for each person on board or being towed. All life jackets, otherwise known as PFDs(personal flotation devices), must be the proper size for the intended wearer, be in good condition, readily accessible and United States Coast Guard (USCG)-approved. Furthermore, while on Florida waters, any person under six years of age must wear a PFD of proper size while on board any vessel less than 26 feet in length that underway.” (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, MyFWC.com). Information below will give you an idea of what it all means. United States Coast Guard Life Jacket Classifications: TYPE The offshore life jacket provides the most buoyancy. It is effective for all waters, especially open, rough or remote waters where rescue may be delayed. It floats you best but is bulky and not comfortable for extended wear. TYPE II: The near-shore vest is intended for calm, inland water where quick rescue expectation. These are the basic orange vests most boaters have on board. TYPE III: The flotation type vests are good for calm, inland water, or where there is good chance of quick rescue. These are the most common jacket used for recreational purposes.They are light weight and comfortable. TYPE IV: Throwable devices like cushion or ring and can be thrown to anyone in the water needing assistance. Special-use devices are intended for specific activities and may be carried instead of another life jacket used according to the approved conditions. These include work vests, board sailing vests, etc. Some other noteworthy requirements: Readily accessible means you must be able to put the PFD on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency. PFDs should not be stowed in plastice bags, in locked or closed compartments. All vessels 16 feet or greater (except canoes and kayaks) must carry one Type IV throwable preserver (i.e., ring or cushion). for persons over 16 years of age use by weak swimmers or nonPersonal watercraft operators and all passengers must wear PFD at all times. Remember this, 90 % of those who drown while boating were not wearing a life jacket. They work if you wear them. This information is provided as guideline and not to be used for any other purpose. Some information reprinted from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s About Boating Safety. LIFE JACKETS SAVE LIVES but ONLY IF YOU WEAR THEM! SAFETY Stone Crab Claw Recipe WITH MUSTARD DIPPING SAUCE RECIPES

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Preserving History

On our first out of state B.O.W. trip, we visited Charleston, South Carolina. Although we were there to visit family and friends, we could not go up there without getting on and near the water, of course! I have visited Charleston more times than I can count since my family lives close by, however one area that I love to revisit the most is Battery Park and Battery Row. History has always fascinated me and Charleston is full of it. Battery Park is home to many statues with story after story of the rich history and the men and women who died trying to find or protect freedom for their town. This park overlooks Charleston Harbor and has breathtaking views of the water. Walk a little past the park and you will find Battery Row with houses that have been there for hundreds of years. These homes are by far some of the most beautiful homes with unique architecture, gorgeous views, and Southern charm. My mind easily drifts off to the families that resided in those homes and what

By: Megan Chewning

life was like back in those days. One thing I noticed, as we were walking, admiring the history of Battery Row, was that almost every one of them is being worked on. It seems each time I visit, there are multiple houses under construction there. I can only imagine what it takes to keep up a house that was built in the 1700s or 1800s. There has to always be something to work on, upgrade, or bring up to code. When these were built, plumbing and electricity was not something they would have even thought about installing. Being so close to the salty air and water, the wood paneling must take a beating. The “honey-do” list must go on and on as endless projects arise to keep these homes in tip top shape and preserve their history. I thought to myself how frustrating that could be to those who live there but at the same time, it shows how they truly care for the property and piece of history they own.

The same can be said for each individual. We need constant upkeep to stay in shape physically, mentally, and spiritually. Some see it as a negative, being “under construction forever,” however; this just shows you care about your growth. If we do not continue to work on ourselves, we will not preserve our physical bodies, our minds, or our relationship with God. The Bible talks about taking care of your body, which is a temple for the Holy Spirit to dwell in (1 Corinthians 3 & 6) and renewing your mind to be sharp and ready for testing (Romans 12). Throughout scripture, we are reminded of how important it is to grow closer to our Creator and preserve that relationship as the most important one we have. This New Year, don’t just make another resolution and forget it. Instead, make it a year to be “under construction” and continue to stretch your body, mind, and spirit, not only for yourself but for the glory of God.