Olivia's Survival

21: I'm Sorry

Leaving New York was the best decision in my life. I moved down south to the quiet town of Riverside, South Carolina. It sits on the Atlantic Coast near Charleston. The streets of the town are covered by natural archways made by the long branches of live oak trees, dripping with Spanish moss. They hang over the street creating an ethereal, romantic feeling.

I was welcomed with open arms. I rented out a hotel room until I was able to find my own place. Exploring different neighborhoods and eating at the various restaurants, everyone was friendly and I can tell this tight-knit community is full of history.

With the generous amount of money in my bank account, I was able to purchase a cozy bungalow near the beach. It had a cobblestone walkway leading to the wide front porch. There was a swing in the corner. Inside of the house was a craftsman dream home. Two-story, open floor plan with beam ceilings, large fireplaces and massive columns. It has three bedrooms and four bathrooms. The perfect summer home, but it's just right for me.

After getting settled, I made a list of everything I would need. From furniture shopping to grocery shopping and in between. I spent over six hours shopping and had a million bags to prove it. Interior designing was my hidden obsession and I drew out plans of how I wanted each room to look.

I was on the ladder hanging curtains when the doorbell rung. I didn't know anyone personally so I wondered who could that be. I opened the door to find an older woman standing with a pie in her hand. "Hello dear. My name is Margeret and I want to be the first to welcome you to the neighborhood with a homemade peach cobbler." The woman said.

Remembering my manners, I said, "Thanks! My name is Olivia." I took the pie from her hands and invited her in.

I placed the pie on the counter and Mrs. Margeret was looking around at all the bags. "Wow!! You have a lot of stuff. Maybe and the other women in the neighborhood could come over and help you." She said and I smiled. That's a sweet gesture.

"That would be lovely. I would offer you a seat, but my furniture will be delivered tomorrow." I replied sheepishly.

"Oh dear, where would you sleep. I have a guest bedroom in home if you want to use it." Margeret suggested.

"No ma'am. I'm fine here, I bought some blankets. Besides, I'll be sleeping on the floor for one night." I replied. We chatted for a bit and she left promising to visit soon.

Ten minutes, the doorbell sounded again and this time it was young woman, looks to be my age, and a little boy. "Hi, my name is Michelle and this is Michael. We wanted to welcome you to the neighborhood. I made you beef stew and cornbread." She said and I smiled. These people are heaven sent.

"Hello, my name is Olivia. Thank you so much for the food. Please come in." I said and stepped aside for them to enter. She walked over and placed the food on the oven.

"You have a lovely home and a kitchen to die for." She said and starred in awe at her surroundings.

"Thank you. I'm still working on decorating and getting settled." I told and we leaned against the counter. "Would you guys like some water?" I offered and they nodded.

Returning with the bottles of water, I saw her eyeing my drawings on my design layout. She looked up and said, "These are wonderful. Did you draw them?"

"Yes, I like to draw out my design plan before decorating." I informed her.

"Did you go to school for this?" Michelle asked. I shook my head and she continued. "You should enroll at the community college in town and make a career doing what you love."