Dang Y’all

10 BEST PHOTOS FROM 2024

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Another year has dashed by at record speed! Once again it is time to review my 10 best photos (from 2024). Let the countdown begin! Remember, I REALLY REALLY REALLY want do know which ones you like and whether you would rank them any differently.

These 10 photos represent time spent in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, and North Carolina. They also show my partiality to nature, art, food, and architecture. Any person, place, or thing that thrills my heart with beauty and joy is a perfect photo opportunity.

# 10

Colorful fish call the Virginia Aquarium home.

When I visited Virginia Beach in early March, the outdoor temperatures were much too chilly for this Florida lady and it rained quite a bit. So rather than walking along the beach I enjoyed some extra time at the Virginia Aquarium which is proclaimed to be one of the most visited aquariums in the United States. There folks can see fish, turtles, rays, sharks, and other marine creatures in all their colorful splendor. https://virginiaaquarium.com/

# 9

Greeted by a gorgeous Clydesdale in Florida.

In Dunnellon, Florida, I was gleeful and giddy while visiting Grandview Clydesdale Farm. To touch a Clydesdale had been on my bucket list for a long time and being able to touch several of them was a huge thrill. I even kissed two of the beautiful beasts right on the nose! Shannon and Karen Cobbs own the farm and their deep devotion to the Clydesdales is incredibly inspiring and heart-warming. https://grandviewclydesdales.tours/

# 8

Discover over 30 murals in Palatka, Florida.

History is highlighted in over 30 magnificent murals in Palatka, Florida. Fascinating folks depicted include William Bartram, Annie Oakley, Louis Armstrong, Billy Graham, and others. This adorable small town of roughly ten thousand residents has abundant charm. Visitors are amazed at the variety of lively festivals, delicious food, antique shops, and unique galleries. https://business.putnamcountychamber.com/info/

# 7

Old shack in Virginia might not be around much longer.

The haunting beauty of abandoned places sparks a chord of melancholy in the core of my artistic soul. My fascination with this dilapidation raises a thousand questions for which I find no answers. Oh the songs that may have been sung here and the long-forgotten stories this lonely shack could tell.

# 6

Can you see beauty in a bunch of wet rocks?

Sure, I get it. Some people may think it odd that I see beauty in something as common as a pile of wet rocks. But consider all those wonderful shapes, sizes, and colors. Imagine the rough texture of a rock smoothed just a bit by a recent rain. Makes me want to pick one up and thank it for being so interesting. My 10 best photos from 2024 prove art can be about any subject!

# 5

Art in motion at this whirligig park in North Carolina.

When I picked up the pamphlet I knew this small side trip would fill my heart with true childlike wonder. Arriving to see these unusual pieces of folk art spin in the wind, I shed happy tears. I truly hope you take the time to go experience Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in Wilson, North Carolina, for yourself someday soon. https://www.wilsonwhirligigpark.org/

# 4

Joyful artists at work are a thrill to observe.

Richard Stravitz (seated) and his associate Thom Drinkard take deep delight in their livelihood and bring commitment to their craft. They took time to explain to me the “lost wax” technique of creating bronze sculpture. Stravitz Sculpture and Fine Art Gallery https://stravitzartgallery.com/ is a must-see Virginia Beach destination where expert pieces of exquisite art impress the senses and the heart.

# 3

Yes, a tempting charcuterie whets my appetite!

If you’re paying attention, then you know two things. First, I look at everything as a piece of art that may become a best photo. Second, perfectly plated food seems to stimulate every fiber of my being. The creators of meat roses and makers of fine cheese should be applauded. And every grower of nuts, olives , or apricots should be thanked and hugged. Enough said!

# 2

This chapel, to me, is both art and architecture.

Architectural design expressed through stained glass, graceful pointed arches, and Swarovski crystal chandeliers certainly makes this chapel look like a work of art. The soul-stirring chapel can be found on the 2,000 acre campus of the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. The entire complex is luxurious and worth a visit. https://worldequestriancenter.com/ocala-fl/

# 1

Boats at sunrise on Darien River in Georgia.

Recipe for morning magic: one part water, one part sunrise, then sprinkle six or more boats and get your camera ready! I can’t get enough, especially since being diagnosed with wet AMD which has decreased my night vision. So, yes, I always look forward to taking photos at sunrise. The water and boats are a bonus bringing tender tears of tremendous joy.

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There you have my 10 best photos from 2024. Think of this as my Christmas gift to you. All I ask in return is for you to leave a comment here on my website…to share thoughts on which ones you like. Dang y’all… your comment truly will make me shed more happy tears! Share this article with folks who love to Embrace Southern States.

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MERRY CHRISTMAS Y’ALL, LET’S STAY IN TOUCH IN 2025 !

IN THE SPIRIT OF THANKSGIVING

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Americans typically set aside the fourth Thursday in November to gather around an abundant meal and offer expressions of gratitude. As a person of faith, I am deeply grateful for the freedom to believe in the Higher Power of my choice. To that Heavenly Creator I give thanks for the multitude of things which bring me joy. I also give thanks that atheists, skeptics, and other nonbelievers can choose to thank fate or the Universe. Wouldn’t the world be such a nicer place if we could all live each day in the spirit of Thanksgiving?

MUSINGS

Here are my meandering musings about things for which I am most thankful. Please reflect on these and let me know the ones that have meaning to you.

So thankful for the beauty of NATURE !

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I appreciate the beauty and vibrant colors of animals, art, and nature. I enjoy a sense of wonder in a bookstore and in a coffee shop. I am thankful for eyeglasses, eye doctors, good lighting, and comfortable reading spots.

Love finding great COFFEE SHOPS when on road trips.

WORDS

Are you a logophile… a lover of words? I certainly am. I love well-written stories and meaningful conversations. Having the courage to use words to say what I think seems to be equally important with having the conviction to stand my ground after sharing those words.

Two of my favorite words are lagniappe and serendipity. They both carry the idea of a delightful surprise. Life, on its best days, IS a delightful surprise!

PONDER

Have you ever taken a break from the hectic pace of life to peacefully ponder the awesomeness of these things: creativity, kindness, laughter, mindfulness, prayer, and wisdom? They are priceless on so many levels.

PHOTOS & reflections & memories.

Travel …ponder this with me for a moment… can take multiple forms. My favorite includes long road trips in my own vehicle. It also includes making time for writing and photography. These are precious gifts that I give to myself and to those who can appreciate my efforts.

SENSES

SOUNDS: Think about the difference between a babbling brook and the indescribable rushing and roaring of a waterfall. Or that mixture of noises in the background as you watch and cheer for your favorite football team. Or simply being able to adjust the TV volume to your personal level of comfort as you watch a movie. Of course, let’s not forget music!

MUSIC is mood lifting.

SIGHTS: My favorites include watching a perfect sunrise, enjoying the beauty of lakes and mountains, and raindrops that seem to sparkle and dance upon green leaves.

What a way to start a day… with a SUNRISE, joy and hope!

TOUCH/FEEL: Compare the softness of cat fur to the roughness of chopped logs. Or the coldness of freezing rain to the warmth of a crackling fire.

TASTE and SMELL: These are all tied up together when it comes to one of my all-time favorite things… food and beverages! Anything baking in an oven, whether it be pizza or cookies or cinnamon rolls, gets me excited. To list every food that I love would take years, so let me highlight the ones that top the list.

Both Barq’s & Abita ROOT BEER had Southern roots!

Beverages include coffee, sweet tea,  homemade smoothies, root beer, and Jack Daniel’s. Foods include bacon, guacamole, and jambalaya. And EVERY dessert, especially beignets, bread pudding, blackberry cobbler, and chocolate.

DESSERTS are truly a party for all the senses.

PEOPLE

Recently I read that there are over a dozen levels of personal relationships. I prefer to think of and be thankful for these four levels: online only, casual acquaintances, family, and chosen family.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I admit that I appreciate the online people who come across as positive, helpful, and open-minded. Casual acquaintances are good to socialize with occasionally if they seem to be authentic.

My gratitude runs deep toward relatives who are kind and decent. My mother, husband, and son are more precious to me than silver and gold or a room full of puppies. There are a few cousins with whom I try to stay in touch.

Now chosen family includes those dear and darling friends that I completely love, respect, and trust. Some I’ve known for decades and others just for a few years. These cherished ones accept me, love me, laugh with me, and cry with me. They would not be flustered if I called or dropped by without notice. We can discuss anything under the sun and agree to disagree on a few subjects. I am tremendously thankful for my chosen family.

Treasure your times with CHOSEN FAMILY.

IT’S YOUR TURN

Rambling on as I tend to do, I have mentioned over seventy (yes, 70) things to be thankful for in life. Now it is your turn to LEAVE A COMMENT here on my website. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, share your thoughts on this article and be sure to share some specific things that you are giving thanks for today!

Dang y’all …  being thankful is a CHOICE… a wise and healthy choice! I genuinely care about you and give thanks for you!   

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LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE… your kindness WILL fill my heart with JOY !!!

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Dang, y’all... JOY & THANKS!    And Happy Thanksgiving from Florida !!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING from FLORIDA. Bye y’all.

JOYFUL SOUTHERN STATES MOMENTS

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Do you know what I wish for you? The answer is joyful adventures in Southern States filled with thrilling moments of pure bliss. Those unforgettable times of exploring a destination and forming a vivid new memory filled with beauty, awe, wonder, and happy tears of complete joy!

So, to be clear, the theme of this photo essay is: how you can experience these joyful moments in Southern States. I will share links to the where, then you decide when to go do the doings for yourself. Before you go, I’ll gladly answer questions and help you plan a great trip. After you go, please let me know how you enjoyed it, okay?

MUCH BEAUTY TO BEHOLD

Hopefully we can all agree that beauty is a matter of personal opinion and preference. You may prefer the art of Monet, while I lean toward Van Gogh. You may prefer a ballet, while I find beauty in the sweet and simple things of life that make every day a grand occasion.

Carriage rides around a peaceful lake make for great photos.

Every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, Bradley’s Country Store https://bradleyscountrystore.com/ hosts an Old Fashioned Fun Day. Bradley’s has been a North Florida tradition since 1927 and generations of folks love their nostalgic store, their sausage, and their annual fun day. I love the beauty of the carriages leisurely circling the peaceful lake as the greenery of the trees is reflected on the water. That’s one way we enjoy life’s simpler beauty in Tallahassee, Florida.

The simple beauty of an old covered bridge is captivating .

Just off State Route 79 about a mile west of Cleveland, Alabama, you will find Swann Bridge Road. Pull over to take some photos of the Swann Covered Bridge that was built in 1933 with a captivating lattice truss design. See https://www.historic-structures.com/al/cleveland/swann-covered-bridge/#google_vignette for details. Look closely while visiting and you will likely see folks fishing or kayaking. In this charming spot you can appreciate how something so practical can also be so exquisite.

A FEW FAVORITE PLACES

How “Southern” are you and how much joy can you handle? I strongly encourage you to be SURE to experience the joyful Southern States moments in these next four places.

Savannah’s Amethyst House is impressive & joyful architecture.

Words most often used to describe Savannah, Georgia, include fascinating, haunted, historical, and unique. Each time I visit I focus on a different aspect such as the architecture, riverfront, food, or fountains. Steps away from the fountain at Forsyth Park view the incredible architecture of the Amethyst House, https://www.amethystgardensavannah.com/ an 1880’s Victorian mansion on Gaston Street, which is now a lavish and popular Inn. Savannah is filled with impressive and astonishing architecture.

Jackson Square in New Orleans equals excitement and happiness to me.

A joyful day in New Orleans, Louisiana, really should include a casual stroll around Jackson Square. https://www.neworleans.com/listing/jackson-square/32150/ Music, laughter, art, and excitement … they all seem alive here. To let the good times roll in this happy place, walk across the street to Cafe du Monde for an order of beignets and chicory coffee. Try it, and let me know what you think!

Marion Square makes me think of … joy and truth!

Next time you visit Charleston, South Carolina, enjoy Marion Square https://www.charlestonparksconservancy.org/park-finder/marion-square/ and the fountain located at Calhoun and King Streets. Colorful shops surround it as playful sculptures of frogs and other creatures enhance it. What I find intriguing are the “4-way Test” questions https://the4waytest.com/history-of-the-four-way-test/ on the benches. Everything about this spot makes me think deeply about how much love and joy I find in the USA, especially in our South. And that’s the truth!

Statue of Elvis feels welcoming in any weather.

Did you ever imagine spending time alone with ELVIS ? In the town of his birth (Tupelo, Mississippi) I spent an hour with him (OK, with a statue of him). People were scarce after a recent snowfall. As you can see from the photo, the statue is in front of the Tupelo City Hall. Tupelo https://www.tupelo.net/ is lovely with tons to discover. Thank you, thank you very much!

AWE AND WONDER

Next are three completely different joyful moments of profound awe and wonder.

Affogato makes my taste buds do a happy dance!

Have you experienced the taste sensation of affogato? Have you ever even heard of it? https://geraldsicecream.com/ Gerald’s Ice Cream in Virginia Beach, Virginia, has perfected the Italian treat by pouring espresso over ice cream and a very precisely prepared whipped cream. This sensory stimulation is sweet satisfaction with a rush of awe and wonder. If you plan ahead, you could sit down for a pleasant conversation with Gerald himself. Go ahead and add this to your bucket list!

Eerily compelling ruins of a once-grand Capitol.

Turn your thoughts to history as you gaze upon ruins. Tuscaloosa served as the Alabama State Capital from 1826 to 1846. This once-grand Capitol later was part of a college that burned down in 1923. If you happen to be out walking at the crack of dawn and literally stumble upon this, as I did, I’m betting you will find it eerily picturesque and compelling. Capitol Park

Oddly beautiful magnolia stamens resemble matchsticks.

About 27 miles south of Columbus, Georgia, on Hwy 27 sits a tiny historic district where a town named Antioch had been renamed Louvale in 1886. The area has four churches, one museum, and only a few other buildings. https://www.wikiwand.com/en/articles/Louvale,_Georgia After a heavy rain, I was admiring the trees. The magnolia stamens looking like scattered matchsticks were oddly beautiful. Do you agree?

BRING ON THOSE HAPPY TEARS

These final three photos represent joyful Southern States moments that brought me so much happiness that I really did cry happy tears. I deeply hope you will be able to feel that same emotion when you visit these destinations.

Folk art touches my heart in a huge way, so does my handsome husband.

Near the little town of Buena Vista, Georgia, find the completely colorful one-of-a-kind place known as Pasaquan. https://www.columbusstate.edu/pasaquan/ Several acres of visionary folk art will thrill your senses and fuel your imagination. Take a tour led by Charles Fowler to learn about the legacy of “St. EOM” and hear amusing anecdotes about his bizarre hobbies. The man in the photo is my husband, Tony, and this was part of our honeymoon road trip.

Spinning whirligigs bring a giddy glee to folks like me.

The 2-acre Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in Wilson, North Carolina is a folk art lover’s paradise. Over 30 large whirligigs with hundreds of moving parts of aluminium, steel, wood, and assorted moving parts are sure to bring a smile to your face at any age. https://www.wilsonwhirligigpark.org/ As they spin and turn with the wind, your eyes will light up and you may even feel both gleeful and giddy!

Capturing a stunning sunrise on camera is something I look forward to on my road trips. On an April morning in Palatka, Florida, this superbly perfect sunrise over the St. Johns River brought the biggest and most joyful tears I had cried in years. Afterward I took my mother on a tour of Palatka’s famous murals http://www.conleemurals.org/murals.html . It was her birthday, which made me cry more happy tears.

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What do you think? Which photos best caught your attention or filled you with a sense of adventure or joy? Let me know of any questions as you start to plan your own road trip to any of these great destinations. There are unlimited possibilities for joyful Southern States moments and I try to tell you about a whole bunch of them!

Remember: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

And photos on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/

LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE… your kindness WILL bring me JOY !!!

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Dang, y’all... JOY & THANKS!

HURRICANES; A POSITIVE SPIN

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Who on earth could have anything positive to say about hurricanes? This writer does, and offers this oddly positive spin on hurricanes.

Is it possible to remain optimistic as a hurricane approaches? Yes, in fact, remaining optimistic is a choice… and an extremely healthy one.

POSITIVE THINGS ABOUT PLANNING FOR A HURRICANE   

Helps us ponder the unpredictability of nature

Helps us learn about local resources

Helps us better focus on small details

Helps us think deeper about our plants and animals

Plan what to do with your precious pets!
And… bring in the plants if possible!

Helps us rethink the amount of stuff in  our yard

Encourages communication with family and neighbors

Encourages a positive mindset

POSITIVE THINGS ABOUT HURRICANES

Help breakup bacteria

Help breakup red tide

Help disperse seeds

Help balance global heat

Help replenish barrier islands

Help replenish inland plant life

POSITIVE THINGS ABOUT SURVIVING HURRICANES

More compassion

More resilience

More thankfulness

More cherishing loved ones

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I’ve been fascinated with hurricanes all my life. While living in Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida, I have witnesses and survived multiple hurricanes. That is simply a part of absolutely and fully being able to Embrace Southern States.

And for those of you who know this website is normally about travel, I decided NOT to travel or evacuate. I decided to stay home. Even as I write this, Hurricane Helene is swiftly approaching. May God protect all who are in her path!

Remember: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

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LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE…because you care!

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Dang, y’all... JOY & THANKS!

3 WORDS for BETTER ROAD TRIPS

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An old speech that I gave 50 years ago has inspired me to share these three simple words which could make your road trips significantly better. Are you curious to learn these three words? Discover how three words can make for better road trips.

Discover how 3 words can help YOUR road trips!

The “Discover” photo was taken in Ocean Springs, Mississippi… called the City of Discovery. https://www.coastalmississippi.com/

THIS REALLY HAPPENED

On August 8, 1974, I was about to approach the podium to give the valedictory speech for graduating summer seniors and guests. The high school principal suddenly announced that my speech would be pushed back a few minutes so that we could watch a live televised speech which would prove to be historical.

Then U.S. President Richard Nixon gave his resignation speech!

That was quite a hard act to follow, but I did.

THE THREE WORDS

The three concepts I focused on back then were meant to encourage and inspire my fellow high school graduates. Today those same three words can help travelers who seek more meaningful road trips.

The words are appreciation, anticipation, and adaptation.

APPRECIATION

Appreciation, in the context of our road tripping journeys, means to grasp the gratitude and validate the value of the entire experience. Take time to be grateful for your own research and planning, for others who may have given help or advice, and for every moment of your journey. Of course, you are thrilled about the joyful parts, but are you thankful for the lessons learned by the less-than-joyful parts?

I once did a 10-day road trip that included severe weather with debris blowing across the highway. While I was tense and conditions were worrisome, I later took time to be grateful for seeing a rainbow and for having no vehicle damage.   

Have you ever kept a travel journal? Have you ever kept track of all the people, places, and things you can be grateful for during the journey? Or have you listed the things that happened which you truly valued? That sure can make your trips better!

ANTICIPATION

Anticipation… okay, can any of the other baby boomers automatically hear Carly Simon singing “Anticipation” right now? The very last line is so applicable as you head out on your exciting road trip, “these are the good old days!”

I love the sense of eagerness for something that is soon to happen! Someone hands you a wrapped gift that you can’t wait to open. A loved one prepares your favorite meal that you can’t wait to devour.

Jambalaya IS my favorite meal. What’s YOURS?

Photo taken in Middleburg, Florida in home of a loved one.

Give every moment of your road trip that same level of interest and enthusiasm. That one slight attitude adjustment can add so much value and depth to your travels.  As you research your next destination, notice your level of anticipation about discovering all the best spots to gather and converse with locals or taste local food or enjoy local art.

Find where locals gather, and have conversations.

The above photo is from the campus of the Univ. of Alabama. https://visittuscaloosa.com/

Take time to enjoy the local ART.

This art @ the Welcome Center in Columbus, Mississippi. https://visitcolumbusms.org/

Then kick that level up a bit while finding even more joy in the journey.

Find JOY in the journey. Tallahassee, FL http://www.visittallahassee.com

ADAPTATION

Embrace the unexpected. Let joy be your choice even when it seems things are going sideways. What you may initially see as detours, setbacks, or challenges are often the perfect opportunity to embrace serendipity. By making the most of every moment, you will make desirable discoveries by accident.

One day I was riding with a friend around Joplin, Missouri. She took a wrong turn, and we ended up, quite unintentionally, in Oklahoma! There we got to see buffalo grazing on a Native American reservation. That’s how a minor mistake became a major memory! I also took a photo of Route 66 nearby for another fun memory.

Wrong turn/fun memory Rte 66 in OK https://www.travelok.com/Route_66

By staying flexible and by having a positive mindset you will certainly be better able to laugh off silly setbacks. Those unexpected twists and turns can help you embrace all the wonder of this thrilling adventure that we call life.

Even the smallest detail can add beauty and color to road trips when you use adaptation.

Adaptation adds beauty & color to road trips.

Photo taken in Hamilton, Missouri https://www.hamiltonmo.city/visitor-information

The 3 words that can make better road trips, what are they? If you learned that they are appreciation, anticipation, and adaptation CONGRATULATIONS! You got it right!

NEED HELP PLANNING A ROAD TRIP?

I sincerely hope you got some value from this post. If you EVER need ideas about wonderful road trips in the Southeastern USA, I am glad to offer help. I will (freely) give suggestions on under-the-radar spots to consider adding to your bucket list. I will even (for a tiny fee) help plan the details such as what highway, what to do, what to eat, and where to stay.

In the meantime, remember to check out the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

And photos on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/

LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE…because you care!

And  SHARE – SHARE – SHARE so your friends can love it, too.

Dang, y’all... JOY & THANKS!

ROAD TRIPS, PECANS, & A NEW BOOK!

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The great American road trip celebrates the joy of travel. Stephanie Stuckey and I met up on two recent road trips to talk about Stuckey’s famous Pecan Log Rolls and her inspiring new book “UnStuck: Rebirth of an American Icon.”

Back in the 1930’s her grandfather began the Stuckey’s business with the idea that every traveler is a friend. Stephanie is now Chair of the company and champions that idea and the brand with grit, grace, and goodness. Road trips, pecans, and a new book … all wonderful ways to embrace life!

Natural Georgia, so calming!

GEORGIA ROOTS & ROAD TRIPS

Stuckey’s was founded in Eastman, Georgia, where Stephanie and I both had family roots and fond childhood memories. Some of those memories included picking and shelling pecans to put into all sorts of delicious, sweet treats. On a recent Georgia road trip, I stopped often to photo beautiful scenes of meadows full of colorful flowers. I meandered all along U.S. Highway 221 and stopped to see the Stuckey’s Candy Plant in Wrens, Georgia.

Can’t you just taste THIS right now? So good!

ON A ROLL … OF PECANS

At the Candy Plant in Wrens, you will find plenty of Stuckey’s Original Pecan Log Rolls. The nougat center is mixed with maraschino cherries, dipped in buttery caramel, then hand-rolled in pieces of Georgia pecans. Georgia has consistently been among the top four growers of pecans for about twenty years. Stuckey’s also makes several varieties of pralines, brittle, and chocolate pecans. They are available in boxes, bags, or gift tins.

Sunrise in Augusta, GA on my way to meet Stephanie!

EXCITING AUGUSTA & NEW BOOK

Augusta is called the Garden City of the South and is best known for the Master’s Golf Tournament and being the birthplace of singer James Brown. This  city is full of charm, history, museums, fountains, and fun. In April I went there to meet Stephanie Stuckey in person for the first time. The day began with a gorgeous sunrise. I watched as Stephanie wrote sweet personal notes to folks who got her new book. We had shared emails and phone calls for three years before finally meeting in person to discuss road trips, pecans, and her new book. Here’s a link to the FIRST article I wrote about Stephanie; https://embracesouthernstates.com/smart-plucky-stephanie-stuckey/ .

Before leaving Augusta, I took time to enjoy the Riverwalk and a large variety of ornate clocks and fountains.

“UnStuck: Rebirth of an American Icon” is excellent!
Stephanie Stuckey & Angela Dowdy in Augusta, GA.
Lovely clock & fountain near Augusta Riverwalk.

THREE MONTHS LATER

Stephanie Stuckey loves road trips. She also enjoys collaborating with other brands. So, it was a pleasant surprise to learn that she  would be making a short stop in Tallahassee promoting both the Stuckey’s snacks and the Georgia Peach Truck. In July I watched as the peaches were being unloaded at Tallahassee Nurseries. I enjoyed taking photos on the grounds that cover about ten acres.

Once again Stephanie and I celebrated road trips, pecans, and her new book. She and her partners have brought the Stuckey’s brand back into turning a profit. She has fully embraced both the entrepreneurial journey and the great American road trip. Readers of the new book will be moved and motivated by this unconventional dynamo who has made sure new generations can enjoy Stuckey’s along their own wonderful road trips.

Tallahassee Nurseries made room for peaches and pecans!
More selfies of Angela Dowdy & Stephanie Stuckey!

Life is SO good when you EMBRACE road trips, EMBRACE pecans, EMBRACE new books, and EMBRACE Southern States. Two ways to connect with Stuckey’s on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stuckeystop/ OR https://www.instagram.com/stuckeys_pecans/ .

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PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE…’cause you’re kind & you care! And, for goodness sake, SHARE – SHARE – SHARE so your friends can love it, too. Dang, y’all...JOY & THANKS!

SINGING ROAD TRIP DAY

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Singing travel writing photographer tries to connect with the world.

Singing out loud and proud with car windows down on the outskirts of some small town. No, that is not how I attempt to begin writing a country song. Instead, it is how I attempt to embrace joy and freedom and make connections and make some sense out of life.

This is a raw, honest look at a day in the life of one person who tries to connect with the world. She does so through travel, photography, and writing. Sure hope you are paying attention to the little details.

This hobby, this passion for solo road trips and songs leads to…this next thing…stopping each time I see an old and abandoned building. This other hobby, this other passion makes me grab my Canon. I love the beauty in abandoned places and want so deeply to capture the perfect photo that I could share with the world in both words and images.

Abandoned shack in rural Virginia, lonely and empty.

Is it ironic that I spend hours alone in my vehicle searching for lonely structures that sit looking so sad and empty? What I mean is… the irony… is how intensely I desire to connect with you (or y’all) and share all this with you. Of course, by you (or y’all) I mean the entire human population of this beautiful Earth.

Perhaps I love solo travel on quiet country roads because I have trust issues. My history of family dysfunction followed by poor interpersonal relationships could make for a great novel someday. But today I am too busy applying these labels to myself: singer, solo road tripper, photographer, and travel writer.

If you and I did happen to meet in person along the way, I would love to sit down over a cup of coffee as we compare notes on all the labels which we apply to ourselves.

Coffee at The Blue Owl in Kimmswick, Missouri

At first our chat would be all upbeat, full of sweetness like puppies and cotton candy. Later I could ask you my standard set of interview questions which I would use in a month or so to write a wonderful article about you and how you connect with the world.

Yes, I have done that quite well and often.

But if we lingered too long together, I would eventually try to tell you how much I care. How much I care about you and love and peace and joy. Or even worse, I might ask permission to hug you… knowing full well that my poor heart would be wounded if you were to say no.

Yes, that has happened a few times. Singing travel writing photographer tries to connect with the world.

So, let’s review, shall we? Sometimes the only things that really make sense to me are to take pen, paper, and camera on a leisurely drive. The pen and paper are proof that I am proudly both old and old school. The leisurely drive will most likely be somewhere between Louisiana and Virginia because I am a lover of the Southeastern United States.

Yes, I do say y’all and I do eat grits. And, yes, I have an unquenchable desire to connect with those who can appreciate the subtle beauty and joy in art and nature.

Map of Southeastern United States !

While driving I usually sing songs that somehow relate to my current location. In Louisiana it could be anything by  Louis Armstong with an occasional bit of “Zydeco Bounce” thrown in just for kicks. In Mississippi it may start with “Biloxi” by Jimmy Buffet and probably conclude with “Down in Mississippi (Up to No Good)” by Sugarland. My two absolute favorites while in Alabama are “My Home’s in Alabama” and “Sweet Home Alabama”.

Yes, I do have favorites for all thirteen of the states in which I travel and write.

The perfect singing road trip day often looks like this. I am taking photos of a stunning sunrise near a river.

Boats at sunrise on Darien River in Georgia.

Next comes coffee and shots of small towns, old barns, and those forgotten and forsaken remains of any structure, be it either chateaux or shanty.

When my tummy growls, I stop at the most charming small town nearby. There I go for just a teensy-weensy salad followed by the biggest and most decadent dessert available. Both are devoured voraciously with no attempt to hide my hedonism.

Selectively I scan for locals who appear friendly. This is the tricky part. I wish to engage in meaningful conversations without overstepping or offending. I want to share my love of travel with them while simultaneously gleaning useful local information. Remember that part I mentioned earlier about my poor heart being wounded? Right! Now do you get the gist of my problem?

The best conversations are cause for rejoicing. The ones that did not go so well make me feel like I’m in hell. Once I’m back in my car I begin singing  to either celebrate the magical connection or soothe my spirit while recovering from the awkwardness. There you have it, the whole linguistic drawing of the whole bigger picture. The circle is complete.

This is a raw, honest look at a day in the life of one person who tries to connect with the world. She does so through travel, photography, and writing. Sure hope you are paying attention to the little details.

You and I are right back to where we started. Hopefully, you are tuned in and connected so completely that you do, indeed, get it!

Outskirts of some small town in Alabama.

Singing out loud and proud with car windows down on the outskirts of some small town. No, that is not how I attempt to begin writing a country song. Instead, it is how I attempt to embrace joy and freedom and make connections and make some sense out of life.

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