We were so tired and cranky after being cooped up in the house last week during Hurricane Irma. I know we only experienced two days of rough weather, but two days with JP and Preston feels more like two months. I’m just being serious. 

Once the rain and wind subsided, we packed up the cooler, hopped in the car and headed up the mountain for the day.

There is a new waterfall (well, it’s obviously not new, but I’ve never been) I’ve been dying to check out. I figured, with all the rain, it was the perfect time to go.

After about 20 minutes on the road, it was clear we didn’t think things through. Every single road that led to the waterfall was closed. Every one. What in the world were we thinking? I mean, it’s not exactly rocket science. Schools were closed, for crying out loud. Of course there would be downed trees and power lines!

Our lack of planning was pure testament as to how desperate we were to GET. OUT. OF. THE. HOUSE. 

I was determined NOT to go home. We stopped in the cutest log cabin gas station/store to use the bathroom and load the boys up with sugary, terrible-for-you candy. Don’t judge me too harshly, it was a peace offering for not taking them to the waterfall like I promised. 

As we were driving down Hwy 11, I saw the brown sign for Devil’s Fork State Park. I literally slammed on the brakes and made the left. I’ve always wanted to see Lake Jocassee.

I was not disappointed. Despite the dark clouds and cool winds, it was absolutely gorgeous. (I apologize for the lighting in these pictures). 

I can’t wait to go back. I can imagine how beautiful the water looks when the sun’s out.

We were so frustrated when we couldn’t get to the waterfall. However, at the end of the day, where we ended up was more beautiful than the place we originally set out to find.

Life’s like that sometimes. The road I’m on now is not the one I planned to travel, but today I am thankful for blocked roads. Parts of this journey have been breathtaking and I can’t wait to see where it leads!