For ones such as we (that is, old fogeys) the main ingredients of Hilton Head Island are: the Sea Pines plantation, cycling and the North Atlantic Ocean. From these elemental features follows and flows everything else, including as we reconfirmed early this morning before tending to grocery shopping at Publix the delectable glazed doughnuts from Lowcountry Produce Market & Café in The Shops at Sea Pines Center. There we were greeted by the same server whom we had met last year; and, as I wandered about the store looking at the artwork on display I encountered and gabbed with the proprietor’s sister whom we had met more than 10 years ago.
Thus enlivened we proceeded afterwards to Zips Car Wash then Publix. At Zips we spoke with the staff and struggled with the App to engage it effectively but ended resolving to give it another day to connect properly. Meanwhile the staff member opened the gate for me. I had just purchased the wash card yesterday and we accordingly speculated it was a technological delay only. I have made a note to call Head Office tomorrow (Monday). This is one more example of the popular currency of retailers to delegate as much as possible to technology though not always with success. The assistant yesterday had installed the window sticker but it did not respond today.
At Publix, while I dozed in the car awaiting His Lordship to complete that inescapable domestic duty, a young man (an employee of the store) called to me, asking, “Sir, Are you all-right?” I presume my sedentary aspect gave cause for alarm. I assured him that, in spite of my dormant aspect, I was quite satisfactory. I thanked him for his concern. After being awakened I amused myself by trolling the internet to locate a barber. I found one in a nearby part of town; and then called, leaving a message requesting for an appointment tomorrow. In the past I have naturally dealt with hair salons but now as my immobility advances almost daily, I am increasingly inclined to so-called “accessible” venues which, in my particular vernacular, means places where I can park at the front door. By coincidence I located a shop adjacent a restaurant which we regularly frequented in the past.
Before returning to our digs on Lands End we stopped at South Beach Bike Rentals. I tried a step-through bicycle but quickly recognized my failing ability and precarious exposure. I might possibly have been more adventurous but my instincts told me to resist the pretence. Later when tricycling about Lands End I was thankful I hadn’t chosen the bicycle. Although the trike was noticeably awkward (and ponderous) compared to a bicycle, I was comfortable with my decision. I rode outside our contained area briefly but did not attempt to go onto the beach, a venture I’ll save for a warmer day when I can sport short pants instead of the sweatpants I wore today.
There are a multitude of bike rentals on Hilton Head Island but we chose South Beach Bike Rentals because they are so close to us. This is important not only for purposes of rental and pick-up but also in the event of unforeseen mechanical need or air for the tyres. Our attendant today was a perfectly delightful gentleman named Alfonso (though he goes by “Poncho”). At the counter we dealt with Mary Beth who was exceedingly helpful and prompt in reply to our questions regarding negotiation of a long-term rental for the duration of our stay here.
In the past twenty-four hours since our arrival on Hilton Head Island we have managed to put ourselves in order. Certainly it helps that we already have an acquaintance with the Island. There is too no question that at our advanced age the imperatives of travel have narrowed and distilled. Looking out the drawing room windows onto the inlet affords the hope of many a restful hour to come in the late afternoon sunshine surrounded by the towering sea pines.
