Living in the country for the past year has been a memorable experience, but as the saying goes, there's no place like home. I've lived in New York City from the 1950's to the mid 70's, Miami Beach from the 70's to the late 90's, and Myrtle Beach was the place I decided to stay. I've made some wonderful friends here and lost some very special friends, too, but this was the one place I felt at home the most. In my youth I loved crowds and excitement. As I grew older, I needed some quiet time, and since this place has it's slow months, I found it to be ideal.

Springtime begins in March, with the arrival of cheerleading squads, the spring breakers, the old car enthusiasts. There is always celebration for St. Patrick's Day, and this is a special week for me, because I was born on the 15th of March, my son on the 17th (St. Patrick's Day). We celebrate this holiday with special significance and the beach is the perfect place. There's a huge celebration downtown with music, food, drinks, and lots of fun and laughter. Easter weekend is also another Spring holiday which brings crowds of people to the beach for a mini vacation. The stores stay open later, restaurants are filled to capacity, and hotels are booked solid during the Spring break season. The nightclubs advertise college night specials, and the older crowds enjoy the car shows and shag competitions.

During May the bike rallies take center stage. Harley riders from all around the country gather to show off their beautiful bikes, people from all walks of life, professionals and blue collar workers alike who share a special bond. There are vendors selling everything from jewelry to clothing to parts, and there are families, and couples, old and young, who love the wind blowing through their hair as they cruise along the highway. There are special events planned for the bikers and welcome signs everywhere. People line the boulevard with folding chairs to watch as the multitude of colorful motorbikes cruise along the street. It's an experience like no other. After Harley week, the Memorial bikers come to town, also showing off their expensive toys, enjoying the sunshine, the crowds, and getting together with others who share their interests. When both bike weeks have ended, it's officially summer season when families come to enjoy what the beach has to offer, and the beach never sleeps.

The magic of the summer nights strolling on the boardwalk, listening to the waves crash along the shore, was something I truly missed. I loved the excitement of walking along Ocean Boulevard watching the crowds of people young and old, laughing and enjoying themselves, young girls screaming in terror from the balcony of Ripley's Haunted House. The streets were lined with the traffic of old cars restored to gleaming beauty, and the beat of the music coming from the little shops along the boulevard all made the beach atmosphere seem almost frozen in time. There were outdoor concerts in Plyler Park, there were fireworks every Wednesday evening, and there were the delectable smells of french fries and cotton candy. There was a special feeling of nostalgia on the beach, and many happy memories for countless visitors from all parts of the country.

Fall brings the cool, crisp evening breezes, the bike rally, the old car shows. Fall brings the Octoberfest street fair, halloween parties, Oyster roasts, and family reunions. And Fall brings the beginning of the holiday season. The hotels start to welcome the snowbirds, golfers arrive for special events, and the crowds slowly start to disappear.

Winter months are quiet, there aren't as many visitors, but the beach has a special attraction for those that enjoy the quiet peace. For the price of one night during the summer months, a couple or family can enjoy a beautiful furnished oceanfront apartment or studio for a week in the winter months. The snowbirds and retirees flock to the beach to escape the harsh winter cold and snow. Many bring their beloved pets and take their furry friends for long beach walks. Others enjoy the horses with their riders by the dozens, riding side by side, or galloping along the shore. And the beauty of the sunrise in the early morning hours, as well as the breathtaking sunsets, all make one appreciate the magic and beauty of being alive.

That's home sweet home.