Today we celebrate Earth Day. Let’s think about Earth Day health, Earth Day harmony, and Earth Day beauty. Hopefully, that means we take a few moments to reflect on whether our planet is important and how we can take action to improve it.
I remember being excited when Earth Day started back in the 1970’s. Many of us tree huggers and flower children were sure that this would help people get back in touch with all other living species. We sang to plants and began treating our animals like part of our family. We took photos of this beautiful nature….and dang y’all…some of us still do!
While the current concepts of Earth Day have grown into more of a focus on the negatives of an unhealthy world, some of us would still like to encourage consistency in taking small steps. Try to be smarter about liter, pollution, and where you start a fire. Consider in which ways you could be a spokesperson, advocate, or take part in an organized civic action in your town. Yes, do the big things if you are able… but don’t be afraid to start small and DO something.
I may not be able to change the course of biodiversity or an ecosystem, but I can use these PHOTOS that I have taken on recent road trips to remind others of how beautiful this planet is. I love sweet and simple photos of the precious planet just as much today as I did all those years ago. And I can encourage others to contemplate how they can effect change. Think of your own personal health and the health of our world. How can you bring about some small bit of harmony?
Be mindful…love the land…and plants…and animals. Earth may thank you for that!
A Flower or A Tree
What is your favorite flower color? What is your favorite type of tree?
A Mountain or A Field
What do you love about a mountain?What do you love about a field?
A Pond or A Beach
Do you prefer a small pond?Or do you prefer a bigger beach…with gulls?
A Butterfly or An Emu
Is it easy to like an attractive butterfly?Is it easy to like an emu?
Before the Sun Goes Down
THINK ABOUT THE EARTH TODAY…. BEFORE THE SUN GOES DOWN !
Embrace Southern States is thrilled to extend a huge CONGRATULATIONS to the amazing and beloved Anthony Wayne Kalberg. His decades-long dream of directing the Tennessee Williams play “A Streetcar Named Desire” HAS BEEN ACHIEVED!
Theatrical Director Anthony Kalberg achieved his big dream!
Andy read the play while in high school and saw the movie in the 1970’s and had an unending desire to direct it ever since that time. First it was postponed due to Covid, then there were cast changes and various other obstacles. But, as they say, “the show must go on”, and indeed it did.
The big event took place at the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Arts Center located in beautiful downtown Ocean Springs, Mississippi. This historic 90-year-old structure was the town’s first public school building and went through several stages of renovation. Today it houses a theatre, classrooms, art galleries, and much more. Quality theatrical entertainment is made possible through collaboration with the Walter Anderson Theater Project.
The Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Arts Center, built in 1927.
Andy, in his usual lovable and humble way, downplayed his own talent. He preferred directing the thanks to the cast, the “Mary C.”, the WATP, and the town of Ocean Springs.
Congratulations, Mr. Director, from a few of your fans.
Sarah Qarqish, Arts and Culture Coordinator at the “Mary C.” had this to say, “Andy Kalberg is truly a special human being; the best kind of influencer who is quick witted, creative, and professional. He slaved away building incredible sets and directed an unforgettable play. Andy has inspired us all with his rare talent and infectious spirit. Andy is truly passionate and everything he touches is transformed into a work of art!”
Andy has a gift for detail in set creation.
Rafe Oneal, Co-founder and Treasurer of WATP said, “The entire Board of Directors of the Walter Anderson Theater Project is thrilled to have played a role in Anthony Kalberg seeing his bucket-list show, A Streetcar Named Desire, produced. Anthony has been an important part of WATP since its beginnings, both on stage as the star of our production of Scrooge-The Musical, and behind the scenes as set decorator on many of our shows, to finally, directing his dream show, A Streetcar Named Desire. We are truly blessed to have had Mr. Kalberg on our team these last several years. It is kind of fun working with a local legend!
Per Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Cynthia Sutton, “A huge congratulations to Director Kalberg. He is one great example of why Ocean Springs welcomes over 350,000 visitors each year to this colorful coastal community. We are a cultural mecca for fun, festivals, food, art, and heart. Ocean Springs is a one-of-a-kind artsy destination, just as Anthony Kalberg is a one-of-a-kind professional in everything he does.”
Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center has great info.
When I asked Andy how he ever managed to rise above the overwhelming obstacles that kept popping up, here was his reply, “I signed up for this and take it very seriously. I have proven myself by staying the course and getting the job done.” So, what else might Andy wish to direct in the future? He says that after a VERY long rest he would like to direct another famous Williams play, The Glass Menagerie.
Andy Kalberg is a joy to know and a pleasure to engage in conversation. Here is an excellent example from our recent chat. When I asked about his most endearing qualities, he replied, “God has given me the ability to encourage people when life gets them down. I can make people laugh too, with my silly stories, humorous Facebook pictures, and my crazy antics. Bringing humor into this sad old world…I like that best!”
A group of amazing ladies in Columbus, Mississippi taught me important lessons on HOW TO appreciate their town.
ART: The magnolia is the State Flower of Mississippi. ARCHITECTURE: Details of the 1st home of Tennessee Williams.
As a travel writer focused on the southeastern United States, my first tier of attention is art, architecture, and food. The second tier is nature and anything that captures my imagination or brings me unexpected joy.
For my time in Columbus, Mississippi the joy would be based on design details of Victorian buildings, ingredient details of local culinary delights, and a smattering of prescheduled interviews… maybe!
FOOD: Delicious meal at Farmstead Restaurant. Jan and Emily love to discuss Mississippi art and literature. The “W” is where Eudora Welty attended college. In the T. Williams home I admired artwork of the Angel of Grief & much more.
Meeting Friendly Folks
After enjoying the smell of early morning mist on the Tombigbee River, my morning goal was to photograph outdoor shots of homes, churches, and murals . Lunch at the Farmstead Restaurant followed and included sausage, peppers, onions, and fried okra. Three friendly servers saw my Canon camera and began telling me of great nearby photo ops. They suggested a train displayed at the neighborhood park, a nearby thrift store, and the Angel of Grief at Friendship Cemetery.
Then they asked whether I had met Mother Goose. Admitting that this was unfamiliar brought a flood of enthralling stories about this local celebrity.
The next day I talked with Jan from the arts council and Emily from a local bookstore. Next was Hope from a local museum, and Barbara from a preservation organization. Their helpfulness was so sweet and unfeigned that it was almost magical. They spoke in deeply respectful, almost reverential, tones about the literary significance of two people. One was Tennessee Williams, who was born here. The other was Eudora Welty, who attended college here at the “W”. Then they asked if I had met Mother Goose. Okay, now this was seriously piquing my curiosity.
Listening…Really Listening!
Taking time to listen to the fabulous stories of many Columbus residents became just as important as exploring the town. Their relaxed and friendly manner became just as captivating as their lovely Mississippi accents. Drifting off that night in my hotel, I was sure that these fascinating people in this beautiful town were casting a blithesome spell on me. What serendipitous pleasures would tomorrow bring?
What that next and final day in town did bring was a tour of the Tennessee Williams House and Welcome Center given by Nancy and Lillajo. How was it possible that each person encountered on this trip seemed more knowledgeable and more gracious than the ones before? Their excitement and pride in sharing about the writer and his first home convinced me to absolutely reread his works, and the sooner the better.
See the Tombigbee River & nature in Columbus, MS.
Nancy shared a wealth of facts about local attractions, sporting events, and the local military base. She works in tourism and had created a tagline, “Columbus, the city that has it all.” Listening to her soothing southern accent as she spoke those seven words, my inclination was to totally agree. This town of Columbus, Mississippi does make a delightful destination where anyone could find relaxation. It was like a drink of restorative and magical medicine for my body, mind, and spirit.
Of course, as we parted ways, she asked if I had met Mother Goose.
It Is Time!
Heading for my final appointment of the trip, to learn more about Barbara and the grassroots organization she directs, I stopped to take a photo at the corner of Main and 7th streets. There a utility box had been painted to honor and celebrate Edwina Williams who is known as a local treasure and the personification of Mother Goose. If we were not to meet, at least that photo would be a sweet reminder of how the community obviously adores her.
Edwina Williams is a beloved local celebrity.
The meeting with Barbara went well. She gave me several reasons to want to return to this incredibly charming town. After a supremely satisfying interview, she said she had one final surprise for me. She phoned her office manager and simply said, “It is time.”
Beautiful Barbara Bigelow of Main Street Columbus!
The door opened and in stepped Mother Goose! She called my name and hugged me as though we were dear friends. For the next hour she laughed, sang, and told her story. It was about literacy, heart, and happiness. More than once, my eyes filled with true tears of joy while taking notes. I knew on that day that I would forever be grateful to the lovely ladies of Columbus for showing me a glimpse of their world. Each one gave me another lesson on how to listen to the personal stories and appreciate the layers of joy and beauty in this great town. They opened my eyes to Mississippi magic and Mother Goose!
Mother Goose brings Mississippi magic and joy to Columbus!
Dang, y’all… can you feel that magic now? PLEASE LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE!
Some links to help YOU plan your visit to Columbus, Mississippi:
Bainbridge, Georgia is a sweet small Southern town that you should visit!
When you seek the charm and hospitality of a welcoming and beautiful Southern town, then head to Bainbridge, Georgia. There you will find genuine joy as you explore architecture, culture, and history. The friendly local residents will point you in the right direction for food, art, music, shopping, and other entertainment.
A stroll around Willis Park is a photographer’s dream.
On the first Saturday in February I headed to Bainbridge to enjoy the second annual Bainbridge Jazz & Blues Festival. The main stage for such events is most often located at Willis Park. Here you can find cannons, monuments, a fountain, and a gazebo.
The morning’s anticipation leads to so many delights.
While waiting for the show to begin, I admired the details on several buildings and browsed in a couple of shops. I got some delicious coffee at The Bean Cafe. I struck up conversations with folks from nearby towns of Albany, Colquitt, and Tallahassee. We all agreed that the recent downtown revitalization has done wonders for Bainbridge and given a fresh new energy to this lovely little destination.
BBQ is a feast for the senses.
FOOD !!! For many of us, food is one of the first things we think of when setting out for a day of fun. Tyler Thomas (owner/chef The American) seemed to be everywhere at once, overseeing every detail. He was cooking the ribs, making sure the tents were set up, double checking lights and microphones. He and about a dozen other business owners sponsored the festival and made sure all went well. Inside The American, his wife Heather made sure all customers were happy, whether with a full meal or perhaps a slice of cheesecake.
Local sketchbook art shows such variety.
ART !!! The Firehouse Arts Center is an elegantly restored historic landmark that now hosts numerous art and cultural events. The sketchbook pin-up was a perfect way to introduce visitors to small examples of local art as they mingled and took in the surroundings.
There is just something soothing about a saxophone.
MUSIC…
MUSIC !!! Jazz and Blues both originated in the Southern USA in the late 1800’s and most often include horns, keyboard, drums, and an upright bass. Above, the Reese Cloud Quartet featured a super smooth saxophone better than most.
Talented musicians and singers graced five stages.
Meanwhile, over at Southern Philosophy, Rachel Hillman shows everyone what an awesome singer/songwriter/guitarist and her friends can do. While there, I grabbed a chance to see the brewing equipment and taste some samples.
Lots of adorable fur babies took in all the sights.
DOGS!!! Well, maybe that should be Dawgs…this is Georgia, after all! Lots of dogs of every shape and size were enjoying the cool day with their owners. From chihuahua to mastiff, at the festival every dog had its day.
The dogs were as varied as the people.
All the dogs seemed to be on their best behavior. Each one is just so dang cute!
Beautiful smiles just make my heart happy.
HAPPY FACES… so sweet!
HAPPY FACES !!! The Bainbridge Jazz & Blues Festival certainly gave everyone lots of reasons to smile.
Pure contentment on a totally relaxing day.
I love talking with new acquaintances and making new friends all over the South. Sometimes the conversation is brief, while at other times I get to interview folks and find out what makes them joyful.
Unexpected reunion with cousins was a deep pleasure.
A big thrill was running into my cousin Johnny and his wife Brenda. We had not seen each other in several years, so catching up was very gratifying as we regaled one another with recent family stories.
Everyone who made the day a success deserves a round of applause.
At Hook and Ladder, a wonderful open air venue, folks clapped in appreciation for the Ben Flournoy Trio. It made me think of how every sponsor and every individual who worked so hard on this festival really should be receiving a clap, a hug, or something.
THANK YOU, BAINBRIDGE, FOR A GREAT JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL !!
I call myself a Travel and Food writer. No, this is not about TRAVEL. Today’s post is about FOOD. More to the point, it is about a food failure. And even more, this is about learning that certain crazy old broads such as myself should not attempt to make hash browns. Please let this be a lesson so that you do not end up in hash brown Hell!
To be honest, my first mistake was PROBABLY thinking that things would go well. I mean, seriously, I’m over 60 and not one known to follow directions. I am not a patient person, and I don’t spend much time in the kitchen. I have one favorite go-to dish that I make about every other month. Someone else in the household does most of the cooking.
Time to shine a light on my Food Fail !
((By the way, y’all… I chose this photo to shine a light on a Food Fail… because I could not find a photo of horrible hash browns. ))
Since I am not traveling this month, I found myself bored on a Saturday with too much time on my hands. I decided to make hash browns with no idea of how to do so. Having identified some potatoes, I peeled five of them. My second mistake, I found a flat potato grater and tried to act like I knew what to do as tiny particles of mush began flying all over the room. The panic set in when I could not identify the correct way to hold the potato to keep from shredding my own fingers, ouch!
My third mistake was to quickly glance over an on-line recipe while taking a break and having a cup of coffee. No, wait, it was taking the break, not reading the directions carefully, then disregarding the part about rinsing off and the part about reducing excess moisture. I was not sure what that meant or how to do it. While there were at least four mistakes in this one paragraph, I will just count them all as one unit.
By this time, I was getting quite hungry and eager to devour the delicious treat. The recipe indicated a cooking time of ten minutes. At the end of my ten minutes, it was not a pretty sight. They were an odd color and still looked raw. That is when I PROBABLY made my fourth and fifth mistakes. The obvious solution, in my silly mind, was to turn the heat all the way up and to add butter.
The weird-colored, weird-textured, weird-smelling mess kept right on cooking for at least twenty more minutes before finally getting crisp. Convinced that I had entered hash brown Hell, I stubbornly determined that I would eat them regardless of how they looked. As I turned to get a bowl, the phone in my hand rang and I dropped it while tripping over the cat.
Yes, I did eat the horribly unattractive hash browns. One roommate took a bite and said that even though they were ugly they still tasted good. The other roommate thought it was some unknown yet okay-tasting type of meat.
Today’s kitchen adventure did not go well. The first roommate thought the whole thing was hilarious while the second roommate knew better than to make any more comments. The cat is keeping a safe distance while also trying to figure out how to make this all about her.
Next time, instead of hash brown Hell, I will do the right thing …. by going to Waffle House!
-=-=-=-=- ( Avoid hash brown Hell-=-=-=-=Now give me some positive Comments )-=-=-=-=-
In 2021 I traveled through seven southern states and took hundreds of photos. I chose two from each state to share with you. Now I’m asking you to consider each one carefully, then vote for your favorite by leaving a Comment.
Narrowing them down to only 14 was quite difficult, yet a very enjoyable trip down memory lane. Every state has tons of beauty and vibrant colors. Were you able to get out and embrace any great spots in the past year?
If you ever want suggestions about any of these areas, I will be delighted to share my thoughts. Travelers should encourage one another to explore all the precious places that surround us.
Here are my photos, alphabetically by state.
ALABAMA
Fields of lavender were ready for harvest in the aptly named town of Harvest, Alabama. Lavender is said to represent silence and calmness, while the pretty purple color is often associated with royalty. I walked though this lovely area in silence and calmness, feeling like royalty as I took in all the allure of these exquisite flowers. https://www.facebook.com/Lavenderwynde
Early one morning I happened upon an eerie and mysterious site full of ruins in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Pieces of columns and wall took me by surprise, and I was completely fascinated. This had once been a grand building and had burned down in 1923.
FLORIDA
Folks who love hunting for antiques need to visit the small town of Havana, Florida. This is one of several nice murals in a setting of multiple antique shops and quaint cafes. Havana was once known for growing shade tobacco. A few old tobacco barns still exist and there is even a small museum dedicated to the subject.
Bradley’s Country Store in Tallahassee, Florida began in 1927. They make delicious sausage and host an annual fun day that includes music, art, and lots of activities. That is where I took this shot of horse drawn carriages by a scenic lakeside.
GEORGIA
Caught this fabulous shot at my favorite time of day (early morning) in Rome, Georgia. I love misty mountains, rain, and cemeteries…was thrilled to see them all in this photo. If you love old cemeteries, you must visit Myrtle Hill which has six terraces and over 30 tree varieties and is a gorgeous (and possibly haunted) destination.
The elegant fountain in Forsyth Park is a most picturesque place in Savannah, Georgia. It was built in 1858 and is surrounded by oaks, magnolias, and just about more park benches than you could count. Can you guess why the water is temporarily turned green every March?
MISSISSIPPI
In Columbus, Mississippi I was honored to interview a most unique and totally unforgettable character. Her name is Edwina Williams, but everyone knows her as “Mother Goose”. For over 30 years she has captured the hearts and imaginations of folks through her songs, stories, and her advocacy for literacy. People like her make life so special. For more info: https://www.columbusmainstreet.com/staff/mother-goose-little-goose/
In Tupelo, Mississippi I sloshed through snow to share a private moment with Elvis…okay, fine, with this STATUE of Elvis! Even though the snow had closed down nearly everything, I enjoyed taking photos of many Elvis-related items and his birthplace. https://www.tupelo.net/
NORTH CAROLINA
Fayetteville, North Carolina is fortunate to have Cape Fear Botanical Garden. If you love flowers, you could spend many happy hours wandering their 80 acres. It includes a river bluff, an old farmhouse, and a lake. There are so many photo ops! The daylily section is a true spectacle of color from every angle. For more info https://www.capefearbg.org/ .
Just off Interstate 95 in Hope Mills, North Carolina you can find Dirtbag Ales. A group of friends began brewing beer, then added food. They kept growing this one-of-a-kind spot that now includes playground, dog park, music, and farmer’s market. The place and the beer are simply beyond awesome. https://www.dirtbagales.com/
In the historic district of downtown Florence sits Top Hat Special-Teas, a pretty pink place where Laurie is the tea queen! It is tearoom, museum, and educational space combined to thrill and tickle the taste buds. View these brewing accessories and enjoy tea, quiche, and scones. https://www.facebook.com/tophatspecialteas .
TENNESSEE
Apple Valley Orchard in Cleveland, Tennessee is where I interviewed the owner of this family apple business and got this practically perfect picture of little green apples still growing on the trees. Happy little apples on happy little trees, I’m sure. https://applevalleyorchard.com/ .
These cute colors prove that there is art in architecture! Fayetteville, Tennessee is full of fantastic buildings with tons of history. Many of them are also full of antiques and colorful characters. https://www.fayettevilletn.com/tourism.php .
Conclusion
Thanks for checking out these photos. They were just a small sample of what I discovered on my 2021 travels as I sought to Embrace Southern States!!! Now, it is time for you to leave a nice Comment to VOTE for your favorite. Please share your thoughts and we can all decide the winners… together.
Embrace every ounce of JOY in life! That is the biggest and best lesson I learned from the past year. How do YOU embrace life’s joy? Here is a summary of how I did it…my way!
New and vibrant mural in Florence, Alabama…so joyful !!This delightful artwork in Fayetteville, NC makes me smile !“Mother Goose” in Columbus, MS sang and discussed her passion for literacy. This sweet potato cheesecake in Florence, South Carolina is beyond bliss !
The total number of interviews for the year topped 80! (DANG, Y’ALL… I love travel and photography and interviewing fine, fun, fascinating folks!) These included two Bucket List interviews. The first was Stephanie Stuckey who is bringing back the iconic Stuckey’s business that adds so much fun to road trips https://stuckeys.com/. The other was Nick Murray who gave up a successful corporate job to return to the land and become a goat farmer in Georgia https://www.gratefulhillfarm.com/. He and his beautiful family are quite inspiring.
Chef Leon brings fresh & exciting food to Florida.
Two of the sweetest and most brilliant business owners I got to know were Heather Thomas of The Willis Park Hotel in Georgia https://www.thewillisparkhotel.com/ and Kyle Hardee of Tubb’s Shrimp & Fish in South Carolina https://tubbsseafood.com/.
Kyle at Tubb’s is a pure JOY to interview !
The Facebook Group that I started a year ago is a work in progress that is coming along nicely https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates. Dang, y’all, I sure hope YOU are part of that. I am also slowly learning how to do more technology, including Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/. If YOU know anyone who could help me improve my website…and “grow” it…please let me know.
One last thing: I deeply and sincerely appreciate every person who takes the time to read and enjoy EmbraceSouthernStates…if YOU enjoy it…PLEASE take time to leave COMMENTS!!! Thank you, and MAY 2022 EMBRACE YOU with a joy of travel!!!
