from the editor

I grew up in Memphis listening to its sounds on the banks of the Mississippi River: the blues on Beale Street; sobbing fans at Graceland on the anniversary of Elvis' death each year; and the delightful tings and dings of the midway at the Mid-South Fair.

My first stint living outside of the land of Elvis was in Charleston. The splashing river was replaced by ocean waves and the blues became beach music. I loved the contrast at the time, but it wasn't until I moved again that I realized how the ear appreciates the unique sounds of the Lowcountry.

During three months in Moscow, Russia, I missed the local harmonies at the Music Farm (then a small club on East Bay Street where you could often find Hootie and the Blowfish). Two years back in Memphis had me missing the squeaks and squawks of the water birds. I visited Charleston at least twice a year while living in Washington, D.C., for the next eight years, and each time I felt an enormous void as we started the trip north again and the sounds of the Lowcountry both real and figurative slowly faded away.

This issue of Lowcountry Living has plenty to keep our local sounds (as well as sights and tastes) from fading away. Musician Trevor Weston tells how the Gullah culture inspires his compositions and our products page offers an intriguing selection of music choices. Bark along with the basset hound, and read about two artists who give back to the community through their craft.

Sadly, this is the last issue of Lowcountry Living. We have enjoyed exploring, tasting, and celebrating with you and sincerely thank our loyal readers. I hope we have succeeded in our goal to bring you the best of the Lowcountry.

I am reminded of something I said recently to my son Evan. He was running down the sidewalk ahead of me but kept looking back as he moved forward. I yelled, "Look where you're going, not where you've been!" This is what we must do now. We at The Post and Courier will continue to bring you many outstanding publications to enrich your enjoyment of our wonderful region.

Today I am looking at where we're going. So much is changing, but so far, I like what I see.