Good Morning, Palmetto Parents!

Can you believe that it’s the end of January!? 😮 I feel like January always flies by, and this year was no different. After a bit of a rough December, we were grateful for a (mostly) healthy month. Some of our highlights this month included:

We’re looking at some possible snow for this weekend. When it comes to snow in Summerville, what’s your opinion? Let us know in the poll below. 👇🏼

Today’s issue is a lot about rediscovering our favorites! There’s constantly so many new things popping up that sometimes we forget about some of the activities and restaurants that we used to love. This weekend’s cold temps and possible precipitation call for a cozy weekend at home, so this information can help you plan for a fun February (with hopefully some warmer weather). Stay warm and have a great week!

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If you're new to the area, consider this your official introduction to the North Charleston Fire Museum. And if you've been here a while, this is your reminder that it exists.

When our oldest was a toddler, the Fire Museum was a place we went a number of times to escape the hot summer days. This week, we went back for the first time in months, using it as a fun (and warm) way to get out of the house on a cold day. I had to make a return at the outlets, and when I glanced at Google Maps for directions, I saw the museum pop up literally right next door and I was so glad for the reminder it existed. My 21 month old is fire-truck obsessed and I knew it would be a hit.

Here’s why we love it the fire museum:

Homeschooling parents—This is a fantastic educational resource and aligns really well with lessons on safety and community helpers.

🕘 Museum Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 10am – 4pm
(Last admission is at 3pm)

On your way out, there's a cute little gift shop (perfect for grandparent spoiling), and since it's right by the outlets, you can easily pair it with some errands or a bite to eat. We grabbed lunch at Jim 'N Nick’s Bar-B-Q after our visit and it made for the perfect low-key outing with my younger son while our oldest was at school.

If you're looking for something different, indoors, and kid-friendly, definitely add the Fire Museum back to your list.

Ernest (a.k.a The Dream Maker Agent) was our realtor four years ago and he’s become the go-to realtor for our family and many friends who’ve relocated to the Summerville area. He’s incredibly responsive, patient, and knowledgeable, and we’re so grateful to have had him by our side through such an important process.

But what truly sets Ernest apart is his heart for the Summerville community. He goes above and beyond long after the closing (he’s been known to deliver Nothing Bundt Cakes to our door) and hosts free events throughout the year to give back, no strings attached.

One of his annual events is coming up: Love Ya Latte at Café de Fleur in downtown Summerville from 8-10am on Friday, February 13th. This event includes a free cup of coffee and time to enjoy meeting other members of the community!

Palmetto Parents (me, Courtney!) will be there too, hosting a Valentine’s craft for kids while supplies last. Come relax enjoy the cozy vibes of the café to kick off Valentines weekend with your family.

This event also shines a light on Roses in Concrete, a local nonprofit mentoring youth and supporting our homeless community, with an opportunity to give monetary donations to support their mission.

If you’re planning ahead for a way to spend Valentine’s Day with your kids, the February Kids Club at the Summerville Museum is a perfect option. Held on Valentine’s Day (February 14), this month’s theme is “Shells of South Carolina”—with a fun kindness twist. Kids will learn about the unique shells found along our coast, then paint two shells: one to keep and one to hide as a surprise for a stranger or gift to someone they love. The program is geared toward children ages 6+, and parents are asked to stay for the entire session. Registration is just $5 per child, payable the morning of. While walk-ins are welcome, space is limited to 18 children, so it’s best to RSVP by emailing [email protected].

My dad was recently in town for his birthday, and we were looking for an early breakfast spot to celebrate. We hadn’t been to Toast! All Day in quite a while, though we went a few times after moving here years ago and had great experiences. On that Monday morning, it happened to be the only spot nearby that was open, and I’m so glad that’s where we ended up!

To spoil him a little, we started with the Pig Candy, which is thick-cut bacon roasted with brown sugar. It was just as amazing as it sounds. My dad, a big seafood fan, ordered the Blue Crab & Shrimp Omelet and said it was delicious. I went with the Corned Beef Hash, which was flavorful and perfectly cooked.

Instead of toast, we both opted for their house biscuits as our side and when they arrived our jaws dropped. These “side” biscuits were huge! We brought a couple home for the boys. I had an almond milk latte and my dad ordered hot tea, and on a chilly morning, it all hit the spot. If you’re into espresso drinks, Toast! offers fun latte flavors like French toast, Nutella, and salted caramel mocha to satisfy your fancy coffee cravings.

Right now, to celebrate their 21st anniversary, they’re offering a breakfast special: two eggs, your choice of grits, home fries, or artisan greens, and a biscuit or toast, all for just $8.95. They’re also featuring a Maple Berry French Toast for $7, which sounds absolutely delicious!

The Summerville Toast! location is 717 Old Trolley Rd. (they have six locations in the Charleston area). Toast! is open daily from 7am-3pm.

Last week, we shared why date night has become a non-negotiable part of our weekly rhythm. It’s truly been a lifeline for our marriage, both in the highs and the harder seasons. This week, we’re sharing some of our favorite go-to date nights, both at home and in downtown Summerville.

We feel so lucky to live in such a charming, historic town with amazing restaurants and local experiences just minutes away. While we love heading to downtown Charleston or the beach when time allows, with limited babysitting hours, staying local often just makes more sense.

None of these ideas are groundbreaking, but sometimes it helps to see a few fresh (or familiar) ideas in one place to spark inspiration. Full disclosure: neither of us (especially Daniel) are big board game people, so we’ve had to get creative beyond the classic game night.

We’d love to hear from you, too!
Drop your favorite date night ideas—local or at home—in the comments. We’re always looking for new inspiration.

Love,

The Berks 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦

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