When summer gathers up her robes of glory, And, like a dream, glides away. – Sarah Helen Whitman
With school starting for our big girl this week it feels as though summer is drifting away (although the oppressive heat would indicate otherwise).
There were a few items on her “summer bucket list” still to be checked off including a boat ride and roasting s’mores, so we decided to send summer off with one last hurrah and check off these bucket list items with an overnight stay at the lovely Montage Palmetto Bluff resort in Bluffton, SC.
Situated along the May River between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, the well appointed inn is nestled among the greater Palmetto Bluff community, and it’s the perfect spot for family travel. The staff is gracious and accommodating, all restaurants are family friendly, and there are a variety of activities to keep everyone busy. I also appreciate the lovely attention to detail- from Honey Mint Punch in the spa ladies room to a gift of a seersucker bow tie given to pets to wear during their stay to shortbread cookies left on the nightstand to ensure sweet dreams- southern hospitality can be found around every corner. (See March 2018 post)
Our first stop upon arrival was exploring the elaborate treehouse, every little one’s dream come true with different levels to climb. 
After a quick change into our bathing suits, we enjoyed the afternoon by the pool and ordered lunch to maximize our swim time! Cabanas are available at no extra charge including a fan, which was very helpful to keep baby out of the August sun.
Next up was a boat ride, and we hopped a golf cart to the recreation center to rent a kayak. Baby and I watched from the dock and even spotted a few dolphins in the water. We needed to cool down afterwards, and made it back in time for “porching” at the Inn complete with lemonade and cookies.
Dinner was at the beautiful Canoe Club overlooking the water, and dessert was extra special as we go to roast s’mores over an open fire pit – Eloise chose chocolate chip and sprinkle marshmallows. 
The fun continued the next day with a morning bike ride (where we spotted an alligator from afar) followed by more pool time.
Before heading home, we met up with our Hilton Head cousins for a delicious brunch at Buffalo’s in the Village Square.
It was a sweet way to bid farewell to summer while creating family memories, and we hope to make it a new tradition!
