This past weekend was a special treat to have time with my mother relaxing and reconnecting. Just an hour drive from Columbia, historic Aiken is the perfect weekend getaway. Founded in 1835 and named for William Aiken, the founder of the SC Railroad, Aiken became a winter haven for the elite and an equine capital of steeplechase racing.
We spent the morning popping into galleries and adorable boutiques downtown, including Pitter Patter Aiken {amazing selection of children’s and ladies clothing}.
After lunch at a favorite locals’ spot, Betsy’s on the Corner, we checked into the charming Willcox Inn. This beautiful colonial style inn was established by Frederick Sugden Willcox before the turn of the 19th century and over the years, has built upon its reputation of service and gracious accommodations. 
Spa time was on the agenda for the afternoon, and we enjoyed resting with some hot tea and our books in the zen room. Feeling refreshed, we headed to dinner in the inn’s stately dining room for a delicious dinner featuring local produce and ingredients.
Hotel guests are invited to partake in a lovely breakfast, and we took ours by the tranquil pool to soak up a little sun.
Now that I am a mother I value nurturing the relationship with my own mother even more, and I’m so glad that we were able to make some new memories together.
