I think I like Greenville SC - Day 997 (Year 3, Day 265)

Greenville, SC

This place reminds me a lot of Asheville, NC -- the main drag where the stores are, and the residential areas with narrow, winding, hilly streets.  We saw a glimpse of the downtown skyline but didn't have a chance to visit it yet.  However, we did pick up a booklet at the Visitor's Center and it appears that there's so much to do here!

In addition to that, Shabbat services at Congregation Beth Israel were delightful.  Being a different "denomination" (Conservative vs. Chassidic), it took us back to former times, about 15 years ago, when we were affiliated with a Conservative synagogue.  It was actually a very inspiring service, with a Q&A type discussion.  The rabbi was young and extremely energetic, and there wasn't anyone in the congregation who didn't stop to welcome us!  The only real differences were (1) the prayers are much shorter and fewer here; (2) women and men sit together; and (3) many women wear tallit, are included in the minyan, and are called up to bless the Torah (for my non-Jewish readers, feel free to send me a message if you'd like more information about these words).  This isn't necessarily a good or bad thing -- just different than what we're used to.  If we get to return here, we would definitely feel comfortable being part of this community.

Overall, I'm really hoping that when the Lexington assignment is over, we do get to come back here, although with any luck, have availability at a different campground!