Barns and BBQ!

Growing up in New York, going to BBQ's referred to grilling hamburgers and hot dogs while guests lounged on deck furniture and children played in the yard. When I moved to South Carolina, I quickly learned "BBQ" meant something extremely different. It did not describe an event but rather a type of food and a lifestyle surrounded by good eating. This weekend, Mark and I were invited to a party celebrating a friend and this was my first time experiencing true Southern BBQ in the most ideal setting. It was absolutely fantastic! Located on a horse boarding farm, guest were surround by horses, goats, and even chickens! There was so much to see and do. I felt like a kid!

We were instant friends!

Wouldn't he make the perfect playmate for Finn?

I think he wanted to get out and celebrate too!

The celebration itself took place within the barn where guest enjoyed a live bluegrass band who's tunes reflected the joyful occasion. Meanwhile, delicious scents of pit-cooked pig lingered in the air. My mouth-watered in anticipation for the main course to be served!

Wish I had worn my dancing boots!

The pit where the pig was cooked!

Did you know that type of BBQ sauce used in SC depends on your location? Sauce from the low country is vinegar and pepper based, while sauce in the midlands is traditionally mustard based, and sauce from the upstate is tomato based. To learn more about SC BBQ and to see a BBQ map, check out Discover SC or the South Carolina BBQ trail. My favorite is definitely the mustard based and for all my friends up North, it is nothing like the mustard you put on your hot dog! You must try it!

Doesn't this dish make your mouth-water? Take me back, I want more!

Traditional southern BBQ consist of mac n' cheese, baked beans, collards, cole slaw, and BBQ. Where in comparison, "going to a cookout" describes grilling hamburgers and hot dogs.

While the location, food, and music might have been different from where I grew up, a few things do remain the same.  Joy, love, and support, are universal and yesterday's celebration not only made me think of home but made me even more appreciative of the life i've created and the people i've surrounded myself with in South Carolina!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend full of fun and adventure!