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Honeymoon Joy & Wonder in Georgia

December 19, 2022 by angelchatt

Did you know that there are beautiful and unexpected things which evoke joy and wonder in Central and South Georgia? This travel writer is a true Southerner and has lived in six southern states. So, when I recently married Tony, a man from New Jersey, I wanted to take him on a lovely honeymoon road trip to places he had never been and would never forget. Honeymoon joy and wonder in Georgia is possible, keep reading for details.

Windsor Hotel

This historic hotel opened in 1892, has won numerous awards for hospitality and preservation, and is on the National Historic Register. It has welcomed two American presidents, one Romanian president, numerous celebrities, musicians, and sports figures. Located in Americus, Georgia, it is a great hub for area exploration.

Georgia heart pine, Italian marble, and hand-carved golden oak combine to create a spectacular lobby. The breath-taking influences of Moorish, Islamic, and High Victorian in architecture and design are grand and luxurious.

Lovely evening view of lobby at Windsor Hotel in Americus.

Two of the suites are in a magnificent circular tower. We stayed in one of those wonderful circular rooms, the Carter Presidential Suite. And, yes, former President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn have stayed there. I mailed a sweet letter to the Carters a couple of weeks before the honeymoon…find out what happened at the end of this article!

Rosemary & Thyme Restaurant

After checking in, our first stop was the hotel’s own gorgeous restaurant. In fact, we were running late for our reservation! But the staff was terrific, and our table was excellent. My husband Tony (I will get accustomed to calling him that) enjoyed the grouper while I savored the salmon.

I am so drawn to fancy ambiance, and this one includes cream and plum-colored wall panels, red ceiling, perfect white tablecloths, and view of a stunning grand piano complete with a silver candelabra. The simplest things just excite me, like the way the flickering of the little golden candle made my water glass sparkle. There are not enough positive words to say about how much I loved the entire experience of Rosemary & Thyme Restaurant.

Plains & Other Small Towns

What can you expect to see as you leisurely drive all over this section of Central and South Georgia? We thoroughly enjoyed meandering through these six counties: Crisp, Dooly, Dougherty, Lee, Marion, and Sumter. This was at the end of October. The most beautiful sight was large fields of cotton. Some was ready for harvest, while some had just been baled. There were also lots of pecan trees.

Fields full of fluffy cotton ready for harvest.

Plains, GA mural celebrates Pres. Jimmy Carter.

In Plains, home of former President Jimmy Carter, we took photos of murals and of the train depot. In towns like Buena Vista and Vienna we delighted in the beauty of the architecture and the nostalgia of those simple small-town vibes. Such sweet variety of honeymoon joy and wonder in Georgia.

Celebrating Art at Pasaquan

How do I even begin to explain or describe the Pasaquan experience? You need to know that Eddie Owens Martin (1908-1986) has been called a visionary, a dreamer, and an eccentric folk artist. He described himself as a creative man, a poet, and a fortune-teller. In a “vision” he saw futuristic beings who told him to build a sort of utopian Shangri-la to be called Pasaquan where he would be “Saint EOM”.

PASAQUAN is a must-see bucket list ART destination!!!

For many years he created concrete statues, mandalas, and various art forms which represented personhood, power, and world peace. Thanks to the Kohler Foundation, Columbus State University, and countless volunteers, Pasaquan has been preserved and is an internationally renowned art site. The current caretaker/tour guide is Charles Fowler. He does an outstanding job of enthusiastically sharing his appreciation for the artist and for this fantastic place. If you have not been, please add it to your bucket list. Any art lover would find a sense of joy and wonder at Pasaquan.

Guide Charles Fowler entertains with fascinating & funny stories.

Celebrating Nature at Radium Springs

In Albany, Georgia, one of the most enchanting places you could ever imagine is hiding in plain sight. Radium Springs is one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders. This location has been a sacred ceremonial site for Indigenous people, and later a tourist attraction that included a grand casino.

Is this serenity & healing, or wonder & joy… or all that and more?

Today visitors can still enjoy a peaceful and pleasant walk while viewing the fabulous stonework, columns, and trees. While you can’t see the underwater caves, you can see fish swimming in the blue water of the cool springs. Radium Springs has long been known as a place with healing properties, and you just might encounter that same sense of healing and serenity during your visit.

Conclusion

My hope for this honeymoon road trip was that it would be relaxing, fun, and filled with unforgettable beauty, wonder, and joy. The entire trip was awesome beyond expected and we will always cherish those memories. The honeymoon road trip in Georgia was, indeed, filled with beauty, wonder, and joy… plus art, food, nature, and lots of love. Every new experience was just like another dollop of icing atop a yummy cupcake.

We were thrilled the following week to get a note from Jimmy Carter in the mail. That was so sweet and special, like sprinkles of joy on top of that same silly cupcake.

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TO EVERY READER, please show some love and kindness by leaving a COMMENT. I deeply care about you and want to know how you enjoyed this article. Thanks. Here are some links to help you plan a trip to these destinations: Windsor Hotel https://www.windsor-americus.com/ Visit Sumter County (Americus & Plains) https://visitamericusga.com/welcome-to-americus/ Visit Pasaquan (CSU helpful info) https://pasaquan.columbusstate.edu/ Visit Radium Springs in Albany https://visitalbanyga.com/attraction/radium-springs-gardens

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Find Embrace Southern States on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ and please consider joining our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates .

HOW TO HAVE A SWEET WEDDING

November 16, 2022 by angelchatt

SHARE THE JOY

How to have a sweet wedding filled with joy, fun, and special memories. This is easier than you would imagine if you remember to keep it simple and let the core character of the wedding couple shine through.

Yes, I’m using my own very recent wedding as the example here. I am Angela, a travel writer who loves to focus on all things “Southern”. I grew up in Mississippi. Later I fell in love with Tony, the kindest man on earth, who happens to be from New Jersey! We now live in Florida.

Anyway, the theme of our wedding was “Share the Joy”, because that just made the most sense for us. Crafting sweet handmade decorations that also served as mementos for each guest added a quaint and charming individualized touch.

VENUE & OFFICIANT

Our idea of a sweet wedding meant something small, simple, and nearby. We kept the guest list to under twenty and decided to have it in our home. I asked a dear friend to be the officiant and was so thrilled that she said yes (thanks, Deb).

ATTIRE

For this comfortable celebration, we suggested everyone dress casually. The groom wore soft shades of golden brown with black sneakers. The bride wore a dark green dress with golden brown shrug and multicolored paisley sneakers. Everyone there felt relaxed and looked fabulous.

The bride & officiant show off FUN footwear!

CHOSEN FAMILY

A total of seventeen people were together as our chosen family, regardless of actual kinship. We addressed this in the ceremony, welcoming them as precious chosen family into our home to enhance and embrace our concept of loved ones and togetherness.

There were no traditional attendants…everyone in attendance was an integral part of the special event. Every single loved one jumped in with their own unique skill and ability to add a remarkable pizzazz of perfection to the day. Love, joy, and a deep sense of belonging filled the air (thanks everyone).

SPEAK NOW

Apparently, a legal wedding must include time for objections. We added that same “speak now” opportunity for positive words. This turned out to be one of the most touching and heart-warming features of the ceremony.

VOWS

Tony spoke his vows from the heart and mentioned ways that we bring out the best in each other. I used song titles and lyrics to emphasize my enthusiasm. Several guests took photos of my cute and clever vows for future inspiration.

LUNCH & LAUGHTER

Tables were rearranged after the ceremony, and we enjoyed a lovely lunch. Charcuterie items were meats, hard cheese, goat cheese, and breads. There was also chicken, potatoes, and green beans. Dessert included key lime pie, chocolate candies, and the wedding cake. It was chocolate on chocolate with white lace frosting around the sides. The words on top were “Tony & Angela Share the Joy”.

Folks drove from Indiana, Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida and I am deeply thankful for every one of those cherished people (dang, y’all know who you are).

PLAYLIST

Using the songs I mentioned in my vows, a tech savvy guest came up with a post-wedding playlist and the perfect gadget for playing it (thanks Terry). Among those glorious golden oldies were favorites by Elvis Presley, Three Dog Night, Sister Sledge, and ZZ Top.

CONCLUSION

To summarize, here are the lessons we learned on how to have a sweet wedding. First, make it your own. It can be as quirky or as traditional as you wish. Second, the only rule is that as long as legal parts are in place then there is no rule. Skip the parts you don’t like and add extras that you love. We chose to skip formal attire, florist, alcohol, dancing, and seating chart. We added homemade keepsakes, time for encouraging words, and a classic rock playlist.

It would be my honor and delight to tell you more… just ask! Soon I will be posting an article about (can you guess)… the honeymoon! While you’re thinking about that, please leave a sweet COMMENT so I will know that you care. THANKS SO MUCH.

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Find Embrace Southern States on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ and please consider joining our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates .

If you live near Tallahassee, FL check out these wonderful folks who provided delicious food https://socialcateringandevents.com/ https://www.gratefulhillfarm.com/ https://www.facebook.com/beccasbakestally/

Hope to hear from YOU soon…

Good Words: “Goodlife, Mississippi”

November 1, 2022 by angelchatt

Recently I had the distinct pleasure of sharing a meaningful conversation with Eileen Saint Lauren. We shared good words about her new novel “Goodlife, Mississippi” which is a pure joy to read.

The inspiring story follows young Mary “Myra” Boone through a never-ending roller coaster ride of colorful characters, hardships, and pleasures. The encompassing themes of compassion, forgiveness, and love are sure to touch the heart of every reader.

As you become engrossed in Myra’s life and ponder her unique outlook, talents, and faith, you just may realize that it is important to have dreams and plans, no matter your age or your limitations. The author Eileen Saint Lauren said, “Without dreams, we die.” While you are immersed in reading “Goodlife, Mississippi,” do not be surprised to shed tears over her pain and then cheer aloud for her victories.

***Captivating New Novel by Eileen Saint Lauren !***

Here are superlative excerpts from our wonderful interview.

Please share a bit about your new book.

I would love to share my characters with the world. When I got the first copy of my new book, I took it with me everywhere as if it was a newborn baby. I watched over it with unconditional love, gratefulness, and joy. I do hope that readers will learn from the voices in the book and draw their own conclusions.

What would you say to potential readers?

If you read another novel in your lifetime, read “Goodlife, Mississippi.” It is a book for everybody, everywhere.

Tell us about yourself.

I was born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and currently divide my writing time between Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and Madison, Mississippi. I write letters to God, pray, then listen to music while I write. I have traveled in several parts of the United States, plus parts of Italy, France, and Switzerland. I hope to someday travel throughout the United Kingdom.

Any other interesting or quirky facts?

I like cemeteries, movies, Pilates Reformers, and music.

What makes you an exuberant person?

My faith and hope in a better tomorrow for the world.

What is your message to the world?

Love one another. Learn and practice brotherly love by way of compassion and forgiveness for one another… for humankind.

*++*++*EmbraceSouthernStates — EmbraceSouthernStates*+++*

My deeply moving and encouraging talk with Eileen Saint Lauren was especially nice because of the things we bonded over. We have both spoken on the radio and enjoy cemeteries. Also, we both believe in the power of prayer…and have both met Ray Charles!

YOUR nice Comment is encouraged & appreciated !!!!!!!

You can find us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/

The Facebook Group is here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

Best Reasons for a Solo Road Trip!

September 23, 2022 by angelchatt

Spontaneity and serendipity are just the top two of a long list of best reasons for a fabulous person (that’s YOU) to get up, get out, and take a solo road trip. If you can drive a car (or truck, SUV, whatever) then allow me to remind you of this; solo road trips are a fantastic way to recharge your energy and renew your body/mind/soul.

Oh the awesome adventure and thrills of a solo road trip!

SPONTANEITY

Guess what! Something unplanned is beckoning to you. It says “take a chance on me”… yes, just like that Abba song! Sure, there is a time and place for strategy, research, and writing down a detailed agenda. But the adrenaline rush of uninhibited freedom is hard to beat. Give yourself that gift of freedom. Get wild, get carefree, and go see what is waiting for you.

Unique beauty waits around every corner, let IT find YOU !

SERENDIPITY

While basking in the glow of road trip freedom, you will be amazed how many unexpected and happy little moments pop up to thrill you. Some of the best for me have included a covered bridge, a tiny museum, a waterfall, several vibrant murals, and numerous farmer’s markets with huge assortments of fruits and vegetables. What serendipity have you encountered?

Stop at every farmer’s market… if it makes YOU happy!!

AUTONOMY

Make your own choices about, well, everything. Wear jeans that make you happy or old t-shirts that make you smile. Pack any amount of luggage and be thrilled that you are not going through an airport. Stop as often as you like for a stretch, a photo op, a bathroom break…can’t do THAT when others are in your car and in a hurry. Heck, stop to hug a tree or visit a park. Your trip, your choice, your adventure, your decision!

AUTHENTICITY

Do you remember the real you who was happy, carefree, and fun-loving? Now is a fine time to reconnect with that amazing person. Be true to you and some of those playful instincts. Make silly faces, sing along loudly to your favorite tunes, talk to yourself out loud. When you stop for a bite, hold the door open for a stranger or pay someone a sincere compliment. All these simple actions will remind you that life is sweet and joyful, and so are you.

MINDFULNESS

Stop and take in the fresh air. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. Appreciate the scenic beauty surrounding you as you pay attention to your body and all your senses. As you explore an area that is new to you, allow your curiosity and your kindness to thrive. Ask locals to suggest best restaurants or attractions. Write your thoughts in a travel journal. Take tons of photos.

Yes, I’m saying it…”Stop & smell the roses.”

JOY

Making marvelous memories on a solo road trip is priceless. Remember, along with those photos and journal entries, to also bring home at least a couple of souvenirs. Perhaps a jar of local preserves or a piece of folk art would suit you. Dang, if you can afford it, you’ve got room to fill up your vehicle with all the key chains, refrigerator magnets, and cookbooks that you can find. You have the freedom to pick clever and captivating items that will stir those wonderful memories and bring you deep joy.

Folk art mugs found in North Carolina, too cute!!

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Goodness, all this talk about road trips has me ready to go. What do you think are the best reasons to take a solo road trip? Chances are I will, indeed, be on a solo road trip in the Southeastern USA before you can say “well y’all just butter my butt and call me a biscuit” !!! How long has it been since you heard that one? Anyway…dang, y’all… send me a cute little comment to say how you liked this article! Here’s the links to my social media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-l-dowdy-22a2a4196/

Signing off for September, this is Angela… reminding you to Embrace Southern States…and embrace lots of folks that you love!

CHARLESTON: a Winner (Part 2)

August 4, 2022 by angelchatt

What makes Charleston, South Carolina extraordinary? Is it the beauty, food, art, people… or the inexplicable uniqueness? Let’s consider these 17 photos as we further explore the JOY of Charleston.

Dang, y’all… by now you know how deeply I LOVE all things Southern. This photo of Old South Carriage Company salutes a family-owned business that is an example of all the charm, excellence, and joy in Charleston.

Southern excellence and joy on many levels.

BEAUTY

Aesthetically speaking, beauty is a matter of taste or opinion. Which of these pieces of architecture speak to YOUR sense of style? The Primrose house was built in 1817 in the Regency style. I adore the cheery yellow color and the curved piazza. I don’t know the name of the pink building but find the entablature captivating. The U.S. Custom House was under construction during the Civil War and finally completed in 1879. Fluted Corinthian columns add a special dignity, don’t you think?

FOOD

While Charleston is known for shrimp and grits, crab cakes and rice, and even pimiento cheese, I want to highlight other delights that I found fascinating. A true “First” for me was the delicious Banana Puddin’ popsicle by King of Pops, a proudly Southern company! Thanks to Ronnie who works for Bike Taxi for introducing me to this awesome treat. Wine and cheese in the early evening is hard to beat, olives are optional. Notice the joggling board in the background, that’s another true Southern classic! A colorful display of French macarons is irresistible. Don’t you love that sweet meringue-based confection?

Wine & cheese in a courtyard, plus a joggling board!

Colorful macarons make choosing so difficult!

ART

So, this photo of paintings for sale at the City Market is what most folks typically think of when you mention art. But I sometimes think of sculpture like this sweet butterfly. And were you aware that I am a Social Butterfly? Love the mural at Uptown Social!

Lots of paintings for sale at City Market.

Butterfly sculpture outside the Aquarium.

At Uptown Social, proof that I AM a Social Butterfly !

PEOPLE

The joyful lady in the Carifest parade left a lasting impression even though I never heard her name. Wylie Cauthen is the sweetest, coolest, funniest guy ever, and a great Concierge at the Fulton Lane Inn. This inspiring threesome represents friendliness, independence, and strength. Self-published author Paul Attaway, bookstore owner Polly Buxton, and (me) the freelance writer Angela L. Dowdy.

Love his helpfulness and wicked sense of humor!

INEXPLICABLE UNIQUENESS

While in Charleston I took over 500 photos! These last four are like Charleston; hard to categorize or put into words yet completely unforgettable and joyful. Each one has a beautiful and historical story that I will gladly share IF YOU ask me!

The ADVENTURE awaits at Charles Towne Landing! Climb aboard for a 17^th-century history lesson. Or learn how Catfish Row inspired George Gershwin in the 1930’s.

This part of the Charleston adventure began in 1670.

This location now part of a musical, do YOU know which one?

Celebrating much more modern themes, I was a photographer at a Pride pool party at the Ryder hotel. I also stopped to appreciate a new sculpture of a joyful African-American girl named Lilly.

Ask me why THIS was an unexpected experience!

Lilly expresses the joy and wonder that I felt in Charleston!

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Here are great links for your consideration and I would appreciate your Comments!!! https://www.charlestoncvb.com/ #explorecharleston https://oldsouthcarriage.com/ https://www.facebook.com/kingofpops https://biketaxi.net/ https://www.facebook.com/uptownsocialchs/ https://www.fultonlaneinn.com/ https://www.buxtonbooks.com/ https://southcarolinaparks.com/charles-towne-landing

Charleston is Very Much a Winner !

July 22, 2022 by angelchatt

All that charm, history, beauty, & mystery !!! So much to explore.

Part One

Still basking in the thrill of my recent writer’s workshop in Charleston, South Carolina, thought I’d better try to sum up this wonderful town. Most folks probably know about the beautiful architecture, rich history, and how Charleston keeps on winning awards for being an all-around fabulous vacation destination.

Gracious goodness

What you may not know is that the residents are some of the most kind and gracious of any place I’ve ever seen. It’s like they all just decided to show the greatest amount of genuine charm and true Southern hospitality… anywhere on the planet! Seriously, if you long for a place where you can really feel welcomed…Charleston is it.

Now, here are a few other things you may find fascinating about The Holy City, starting with that nickname. The hundreds of steeples in Charleston are part of its beauty and signify a tolerance of faiths and ideas.

Steeples everywhere…led to nickname THE HOLY CITY.

Washington & Poe

George Washington spent one week in Charleston during his Presidency in 1791. Many of the places where he slept, ate, stood, spoke, and attended church are well documented. I found it rather exciting to stand in a couple of spots where he had stood!

Edgar Allan Poe spent time in Charleston and Sullivan’s Island during his Army days in 1827. The Gold Bug and The Oblong Box mention this area. Rumors persist that a lady he dated in Charleston inspired the poem, Annabel Lee. Even today her ghost is said to make appearances in the Unitarian Cemetery on Archdale Street.

Magnolia Cemetery

Speaking of cemeteries, Magnolia Cemetery is huge and captivating. I especially love the intricate ironwork on the fences and gates. Also, the tranquil scenes are just relaxing. My workshop roommate Bonnie and I looked at the graves of the Hunley crews.

I am determined to post at least this “Part One” of the Charleston trip before the end of July. Briefly, here are other things I loved about Charleston: the rivers, the parks, the restaurants, the rooftop bars, the book stores, the historic Fulton Lane Inn, the fountains, the flowers, and the gorgeous weather. More later, bye y’all!

Have You Been to Havana, Florida?

June 7, 2022 by angelchatt

Simply the best in small Southern town charm!!

Just a few minutes north of Tallahassee on Highway 27 is the lovely little town of Havana. Have you been to Havana, Florida? With all the quintessential quaintness and charm of a small Southern town, Havana also claims a unique history which started with shade tobacco.

Full of antique shops, cafes, and murals, Havana is a fabulous find for both foodies and shoppers seeking a peaceful and scenic place to explore. You can leisurely stroll the streets and discover prime photo ops or the perfect memento to take back home.

Come with me now on this pretty pictorial tour of Havana.

Welcome to Havana, Florida. This adorable town of under 2,000 residents is known for its friendliness and its history of growing shade tobacco. There is even a shade tobacco museum that many have called a hidden gen. Havana is also now known for a growing number of fantastic art galleries and festivals.

SO MANY MURALS

Don’t you just love murals? I certainly do! Havana has an abundance of attractive murals which depict trains, fountains, bicycles, quilts, flowers, and more. I appreciate the talent of artists who share their vibrant creations so that all may enjoy.

SO MUCH TO EXPLORE

The community park area includes a butterfly garden where water bubbles from the top of a giant blue urn. Nearby is a Veterans memorial, a library, and a playground.

Blue urn with bubbling water makes my joy bubble over.

DOWNTOWN DELIGHTS

For such a small town, Havana is extremely picturesque. Community pride is evident in every shop, every festival, and every yard sale. The Planter’s Exchange and the Shade Tobacco museum honor the local history. Newer not-to-miss spots include the AHA Art Gallery and Weezie’s Cottage.

A MOST PLEASANT PLACE

On the outskirts of town is a most pleasant and wonderful place called Whitetail Hollow Farms. Once or twice a year they offer a tour to educate visitors about the holistic practices used on this outstanding agritourism farmstead. I love their huge variety of animals, especially cows, ducks, chickens, and emu.

Havana is a most pleasant place where life moves at a most pleasant pace. Have you been to Havana, Florida yet? Be sure to visit and allow the complete charm of this small town to embrace you. Dang, y’all will be glad you did!

Here are some helpful links for Havana, Florida: http://www.theplantersexchange.com/ https://www.facebook.com/weeziescottageliving https://www.havanamainstreet.com/

Please share your Comment on this article and remember to check out the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates and see lots of cute photos on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ . Thanks, y’all !!!