Just because I set out to look like an adult doesn't mean I have to act like one, right?  I liked the look of the Äpplarö series, and I picked out the medium-sized gateleg table with two drop leaves and the foldable reclining chairs.  Even though we had a mission, we were sure to enjoy ourselves along the way!

Once I got home and unloaded, I poured myself some liquid inspiration and got to work.

The table was first...

....and I was so pleased at how it came together and how it folds up so nicely!

One by one I set up each of the chairs, putting each one together more swiftly and adeptly than the last...

I selected these because 1) they fold when not in use (our deck's footprint is somewhat small), and 2) they recline!  I've loved coming out on the deck at night when I let the dog out and just laying back and stargazing.

The night after we got the set, we hosted hubby's parents for a lovely dinner al fresco, and I was pleased as punch with our deck setup!

This is how the set looks most of the time, when it's just Mr. and Mrs. enjoying some fresh air, but I love the option of expanding it for guests!  

It may even be big enough to stick two extra chairs at each end (though it'll be cozy).  I cannot wait to put this set to good use this summer!

I bought this clip-on thermometer awhile back and it has been priceless when doing tricky things like frying or candy-making.  Proper oil temp makes for non-soggy pickles!

It was hard not to snitch them all while I worked the rest in batches...

Hubby did his famous burgers in the cast-iron pan, his favorite method.

Assembled in all their glory...

Om. Nom. Nom.

More drool-worthy windowboxes!

After a hasty refresh-and-get-dressed session, we headed to Magnolia's for our lunch reservations.  I had been craving a Tom Collins after our long, sweaty walk, so I was delighted to see this Tarragon Gin Lemonade on the menu - gin, St. Germain, tarragon, lemon, simple syrup, and soda.

For our starters, we got deviled eggs with salmon...

...and fried mac 'n' cheese.  Amazing taste and texture!

I was craving a simple salad, so I got the grilled chicken salad and was very pleased.

Hubby got the Southern Cuban sandwich...

...and SIL got the fried chicken plate.

We went back to the hotel to change out of our nicer clothes and set out for more walking and shopping and snacking.  Cupcake Down South is a favorite place to stop - Hubby and I split two: Chocolate Caramel Moonshine and Cinnamon Bun.  

More walking....then later that afternoon we stopped at Rudi's Caffe e Vino - I follow them on Instagram and loved the atmosphere on their rooftop lounge area!

MAJOR deck goals!

Our last stop of the afternoon was at Charleston Beer Works for a pint and a snack.

Bacon beer cheese dip with fries and seasoned popcorn - NOM.

We got in a lot more walking and picture taking...

...before refreshing at the hotel for dinner at Poogan's Smokehouse. 

We got the skillet mac & cheese as a starter....

...hubby got this insane "sandwich" called the Porkpocalypse...

...and I got the Tennessee Hot Fish & Grits (sauce on the side at the amazing suggestion of our waitress...that sauce was volatile!).

We waddled back to the hotel and promptly passed out.

On Tuesday morning we went for another long walk to take in the sights before having to check out of the hotel at noon.  Check out this dainty hedgerow!

I was very sad to leave the city and admittedly a bit grumpy all morning.  After spending the past three days acting like calories and pricetags didn't count, it was tough to leave!