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A View from the Marsh:

After Work at Hudsons

The old metal steamers hiss and belch out a mist that rises into a cloud over the old wood bar. Windows steam up and as I open the door I am greeted by a huge fog like bank. A fishy smell permeates the air and for a brief moment I visualize being on the docks in San Francisco. Without request, like in a wonderful commercial, a cold Bud Light draft appears through the mist….My work day is over.

I don’t know about you, but I really enjoy making a brief "stop" on my way home. Up North in Pennsylvania it was BoBo’s. Now I can tell you it sure wasn’t fancy and the only view was over the pool table. But you know, it felt great to have my own version of Cheers where everyone knew your name. The last time I was there, a "regular" mentioned he hadn’t seen me for a few weeks. I didn’t have the heart to tell him I had been gone a few years.

It’s a comfortable feeling sitting at this wonderful bar made from the trawl doors of a now defunct shrimp boat. As early diners arrive, frequent door openings clear the windows revealing picturesque white shrimp boats anchored to the weather beaten dock. The windows fog again, but like a wonderful slide show, new arrivals allow the windows to clear and once again the soulful boats make their presence.

The pace quickens and the purveyors of food and spirits discontinue our friendly chats and go to the task at hand. Happy sun baked vacationers, recently showered and sporting bright loose fitting clothing, are professionally treated with the freshest of shrimp….right off Captain Mark’s boat. Laughter is plentiful, the food is excellent, the staff is friendly and cheerful. I stare out the window again and realize how lucky I am to be able to spend a small part of my day at this very special place.

An appreciative young couple takes my window seat as I enter the outside Island world. The warm Carolina breeze off Skull Creek makes me realize I am in the South, a group of pelicans on their way to roost accent the sky and the sun begins its early descent. My lovely bride awaits at home with a wonderful meal. Another day is coming to a close in this place I have decided to call home.

Think Lowcountry