MLK Weekend

This past weekend Josh got a four day so we were excited to take advantage of it and explore some of the surrounding area.  We had been meaning on getting over to the western side of base because we had heard that the towns over there have quaint downtown areas and good restaurants.

After hanging around the house most of Friday, Saturday morning we headed out for Southern Pines.  It took about an hour to get there but the drive was beautiful.  Mara slept most of the way too so it was nice to have that time just Josh and I.

Once we got there we stopped at a small coffee shop to warm up and get some beverages.  The shop was an old house that had been converted with a few small tables and a welcoming fireplace. From there we wandered down the main street checking out the local shops and restaurants. We had a few hours to kill before heading to Aberdeen for a brewery tour.

My dairy restrictions made finding lunch a little difficult but we ended up in this little crepe place that had breakfast crepes, savory crepes and dessert crepes.  Of course all of their crepes had milk in them but I was able to find a really good panini that didn't.  From there we kept walking, peaking in shops as we continued down the road.  We browsed a local book store and green store before heading across the street.

On the other side we wandered into a great local meat and cheese shop.  I wish I would have been able to sample the majority of the selection but we walked out with some great garlic and herb goat cheese!  We also checked out an outdoor store similar to REI.  I wish we would have had more time to browse but our time was running out.

Our last stop in Southern Pines was a great little growler brew shop.  There you could sample a lot of different beers, most of them North Carolina.  Once you found one you like there were multiple growler sizes that you could purchase and fill.

In Aberdeen we toured Railhouse Brewery, a local brewery owned and operated by veterans.  Lately Josh and I have been checking out the local breweries via groupon.  They always seem to have a deal where you get a tour, a free pint and a glass for under $15.  We weren't overly impressed by the brewery compared to others we had seen but it was a nice afternoon nevertheless.

Overall I really enjoyed our time in Southern Pines and Aberdeen.  I only wish we would have had more time to really look around and take our time.  Maybe next time we won't sleep in so late :)