What People Say About Their Stay

Today we served our Zucchini and Pumpkin Bread paired with Chesnut Chops for the first time. One guest declared it a “Hit it out of the park!’ 

It’s been a whirlwind at Chesnut Cottage. The phone hasn’t stopped ringing, and the waiting list continues to grow. Families from Augusta, Greenville, and Spartanburg are reaching out, desperate for a moment of peace and maybe just a little pampering. They long for the simple luxuries: a fresh, homemade breakfast, a hot cup of coffee, and the comfort of a warm bath—small pleasures we sometimes take for granted.

We want to say "yes" to them all, but we’re at capacity. Every room is filled, and still, more displaced folks seek a place to rest. The need is overwhelming, and it breaks my heart not being able to accommodate them all. There’s something about providing a sanctuary, even if just for a night or two, that feels essential right now.

I wish we could do more.

Our guests truly are the loveliest people. There’s a calmness and grace to everyone who walks through our doors—so considerate, well-mannered, and engaging. It’s one of my favorite things about this place, meeting such wonderful souls and hearing their stories. This weekend was extra special. One couple who stayed with us got engaged! Another couple celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary here. Watching them celebrate was such a reminder of love’s resilience. I can’t help but feel honored to have been a part of that moment.

On a different note, the Gamecocks had a rough weekend, losing to Texas A&M, 27-3. I’m still holding out hope for a better season, though!

In more exciting news, I discovered honeydew melon juice, and it’s been a hit with the guests. It’s refreshing and unexpected—perfect for these late summer mornings. But with fall creeping in, I think it’s time to come up with a warm autumn breakfast drink. I’m thinking of something comforting, but a little different from our signature Chesnut Coffee. I’ll have to get creative in the kitchen soon!

Last night was a special one for our guests—Lyle Lovett performed at the Township Auditorium, and everyone who went just raved about it. The best part? It was only a short walk from Chesnut Cottage, so they didn’t have to worry about driving or parking. The show - and the convenience of the location- was a hit!

Ms. Suzanne from CrazyBlondeLifeBlog returns to Chesnut! She says she refuses to stay anywhere else! This time she’s in The Carriage House (it was the only suite available this week). She joked that she might never leave, and I couldn’t be happier to have her here again. She’s such a delight and brings a special energy to the place.

And another exciting guest! The first lady of The Pelican Inn stayed with us for two nights. When she wrote in our guest book, “Y’all are the gold standard,” I was honestly blown away. It’s moments like these that make all the effort worth it—knowing our guests leave here happy and impressed makes me feel so fulfilled.

I tried something new with my Freedom Toast. Instead of the usual French baguettes, I used freshly baked sourdough, and it was a game-changer! The guests loved it, and I’m thinking it might become a new staple.

Now, we’re gearing up for the Ole Miss vs. UofSC game coming up. We’re at full capacity at the Cottage and still have a long waiting list! Things are busy, but it’s something wonderful seeing this place filled with life and excitement.