In August, I traveled to Charleston, SC with my son, Jonathan and his wife Joan. The primary reason was to visit our good friends, Francine Cook (whose lung cancer was now progressing) her son Chris and her son, Berke and his wife, Mary Beth on Daniel's Island. We stayed in a suite at the Double Tree Hotel  in Charleston. Great location for getting around Charleston, and getting to Daniel's Island. We had lunch at Bubba Gump's. We were all hungry and afterwards walked around Charleston.
   Called Francine and made arrangements to go and visit tomorrow afternoon. She tires easily. We had dinner at Hank's which was right next to hotel. We were all tired, so it was an early night.
   Friday had breakfast in the LIghthouse Cafe in hotel. Afterwards, we went over to Fort Sumter National Monument. A 20 minute boat ride gets you to the fort. The ranger gave a great historical commentary; all those who wanted to assisted in unfolding the flag to be raised, took pictures and then back into city.

We went to Magnolia's for lunch (excellent). Afterwards we were in the car to visit Francine. Her home was built last year (she moved in around end of October); on the 8th hole of golf course. Beautiful home with an elevator she had installed to get groceries up to the living area.

While her son, Chris, took Jonathan and Joan over to the clubhouse, Francine and I sat on the screened-in porch and caught up with everything going on. It was good to see her. We have been friends for over 30 years and I have missed her. 
  When we returned to hotel, we walked across the street to Hank's Rooftop for quick dinner.
  Saturday morning out for breakfast, then headed back to Cook house. Jonathan, Chris and Berke were playing golf. Joan and I were having lunch with Francine at the clubhouse. Lunch was great; dessert was a chocolate chip cookie in cast iron skillet topped with ice cream (Francine's favorite). Afterwards, we went back to the house and watched the movie, The Revenant. When the boys returned, we were due back at clubhouse for dinner with Berke and Mary Beth. Francine bowed out - she was too tired. Had an enjoyable time. It was good to see Berke and Mary Beth. 
   Sunday we stayed put in Charleston. Did some shopping; took a buggy ride around Charleston,

and met Chris and his girlfriend, Melissa for dinner at 82 Queen. Another excellent restaurant.

Unfortunately, just as we sat down the sky opened up - ran for cover; had to eat inside. Had a good time. 

They all walked me back to hotel, the four of them continued to one of the bars for a nightcap or two.
   Monday, Chris brought Francine into town for lunch. She had not been into town since she moved down there. Cancer with chemo and radiation had taken a toll, so she pretty much stayed near home, but she did come in for lunch with us. Had cocktails at 22 Grill Rooftop. Great views!!!

Then proceeded up the street to AMEN - yes, that's the name of the restaurant. Seafood was great; their creme brulee not so good. Francine and I have always judged restaurants by their desserts, especially creme brulee. 
  Afterwards, we walked Francine to the car. She was tired and ready to get back home. We said our goodbye's since we were leaving in the morning to head home. 
   Jonathan wanted to go back to Magnolia's for our final dinner. Again, excellent. We discovered there is no bad meals in Charleston. 
   It was a great trip. 
  Unfortunately, yesterday October 11, 2016 Francine passed away.


Jonathan, Joan and  I were glad we went to visit with her. RIP my friend of over 30 years. You are already missed.