BUILD BIG EVENTS THAT MAKE SENSE

September 25, 2023 by angelchatt

BUILD BIG EVENTS THAT MAKE SENSE

Memorable moment maker Susan Stafford shares expertise.

Have you ever admired people who can plan nice celebrations? Think of the last time you attended a great graduation party or a sweet baby shower. Now try to imagine planning a gathering on a much grander scale and to potentially be held in another country! Yikes! Event planner extraordinaire Susan Stafford has been doing exactly that for years and talks about life, fun, and travel. Then she explains how to build big events that make sense by paying exceptional attention to every small detail.

GETTING TO KNOW THE BASIC INFO

What interesting stuff should we know about you?

My bachelor’s degree is from Birmingham-Southern College and my master’s degree is from right here at Florida State University in my wonderful hometown of Tallahassee. I’m happily married. We have three children and four cats.

What do you love most about Tallahassee?

There is so much to enjoy here. Everyone needs to experience the Shakespeare Festival, the Springtime Tallahassee Parade, an exciting football game, and a tour of the Capitol Complex that has so much art and history. Tallahassee is a great hub, too, and close to beautiful small towns such as Havana, Florida and Bainbridge, Georgia. It is also a perfect distance for a day trip to the beach.

What’s at the top of your travel wish list right now?

I do love to travel so much and would absolutely love to go on an African safari and see an amazing variety of wildlife.

I love travel, walking, reading, family, and food.

What can you share about hobbies, passions, and things you do for fun?

Good “Southern grandma food” is simply the best, and my own grandma planted that passion in my heart. I love sharing food with family and with friends. Walking is my favorite form of activity, and my favorite form of inactivity is reading all types of books, including travel logs.

Three fun things I’ve done recently were ziplining, riding an ATV, and (the best one was) when a Bluegrass band in Ashville gave a group of us a lesson in square dancing.

A BIT OF THE BACKSTORY

How did you learn to build big events that make sense?

It started with a fascination for law and having attorneys in the family. I am a meticulous person who loves to be helpful and solve problems. I did not want to become a lawyer but did want to help them plan meetings in memorable places. My ability to turn their general ideas and hopes into an extremely specific plan of action just organically led to event planning and inevitably to co-founding my current business, which is The Event Architects.

GET THE JOB DONE AND STILL HAVE FUN

How on earth do you mix mega planning with memorable moments?

As a corporate event planner and site sourcer, I use my expertise to find out what a group really desires when they think of a retreat. Then I save them lots of time, money, and effort by working out all the particulars and fine points. This would include venue, food, and attendee details. Other extras may encompass excursions, team building activities, and fabulously tailored sessions for entertainment and celebration.

I love to scout out new locations where my clients will enjoy integrating into the local culture and will come away with lasting memories which are so very precious. A big part of my job is to build big events that make sense and be sure they provide a wow factor and great customer service. That way the client’s entire experience is relaxed and remarkable.

SUSAN’S JOY AND MESSAGE

Why are you a joyful person?

Love for family, friends, and clients combines so well with my being helpful and detail oriented. Whether for business or pleasure, I always purposely leave much time for joy and for being in the moment. I remember everything in a good way, and that also brings me immense joy.

Do you have a message for the world?

Oh, yes! GO! Get out there, go see unfamiliar places, meet new people, taste new foods. Go do all the things…big events and memorable moments filled with joy. Do the things!

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Dang, y’all, Susan Stafford turns tiny details into big events which are filled with precious and memorable moments. For over 16 years, she has sourced, planned and pleased with a personal touch. I simply admire her so much. She really can build big events that make sense. I also look forward to speaking with her again about several of the things we have in common, such as a Southern grandma, and a love of food, books, and travel.

Find out more about The Event Architects at https://www.myeventarchitects.com/about-us

For those who love EmbraceSouthernStates, remember to check out the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

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

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HEART’S VOICE WORDS

September 15, 2023 by angelchatt

Marvelous Message Mastery with Gail Dixon

There is a dynamic difference between simply having the gift of gab, having a powerful way with words, and using your unique heart’s voice words. For as long as she can remember, Gail Dixon has been fascinated with how words hold tremendous potential, promise, and power. Interviewing her proved to be every bit as delightful as I had anticipated. These excerpts will excite you and leave you wanting to know more about heart’s voice words and this remarkable lady.

GETTING TO KNOW THE BASICS

What interesting tidbits can you share about your background?

I earned two Bachelor’s degrees at Illinois Wesleyan University, one in French and the other in Speech. Three years later I obtained my Master’s degree in Communication and Human Relations at Purdue University. My typical jobs involved being quietly behind the scenes, writing and putting together purposeful messages for other people to use. Eventually, I became a panelist, presenter, and speaker.

Could you comment on your current city and one place that tops your travel bucket list?

Tallahassee, Florida, is a lovely place with captivating history and a growing art scene. It is a good spot for education. What makes it an excellent place to live would be the friendly people, nice flowing traffic, and the mild winters.

The legendary Greek island of Santorini is the one place on earth that I would most love to visit.

What is the most FUN thing that you have ever done?

The best family vacation ever was when I was age sixteen. The entire road trip was fun, and the highlight was the World’s Fair “Expo 67” in Montreal, Canada. The combination of French culture, history, and beauty made that a most wonderful experience.

Do you become impassioned about food, music, or art?

I am not so much into music, but definitely love food and art. My preferences in art tend toward the paintings of Rembrandt and a few of the Renaissance artists.

Beautiful, sweet lady with a heart for powerful words!

NOW FOR THE BACKSTORY

What has led you to the work you currently do?

My interest has always been in using the right words to send the right messages. I kept adding new skills along the way, Writing and speaking expanded to include entrepreneurship, branding, and coaching. Almost eight years ago I founded Masterful Messaging to help others better communicate about their own products or services.

About three years ago I had significant physical and medical issues. There was a phase in which I could hardly breathe or speak. That is when the inspiration for the Heart’s Voice Movement came to me. I became enthusiastic about speaking with the words of my heart’s voice and guiding other people to find and understand their heart’s voice.

Could you explain what that means?

The heart’s voice is the God-whisper that is our very essence. I help budding influencers voice their soul truth for maximum impact. I like to tell everyone, “Speaking from the heart is an act of courage and listening with the heart is an act of love.”

I listen and observe intently to help people identify and amplify their unique truth. That pivotal aha moment is when they know I understand their identity and can help give voice to their vision. We work together for good, using positive language to create and connect. This is how we inform, inspire, and heal the world.

THE JOY AND THE MESSAGE

What makes you a joyful person?

Most everything makes me joyful. Seriously, I just find so much joy in life and in all the wonders of the created world.

What message do you wish to give to the world?

Your voice matters. Seek unity, identity, and the heart love that connects us. Then you will be able to find your heart’s voice words and live into your truth and your purpose.

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Dang, y’all, I find the powerful messages of Gail Dixon to be so inspirational and motivational. Her words are authentic, intentional, and clear. She has authored or coauthored eight books, over 300 presentations, and won numerous awards and honors.

Find more information: https://heartsvoicemovement.com/

Or visit the Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsvoicemovement

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Sensational Southern Towns

August 1, 2023 by angelchatt

Let’s start with what is meant by sensational. For the purposes of this article, it simply means amazing and exciting places which arouse the senses. This does not depend on the land size or population, but on the friendliness of the people or the charm of the place. Or perhaps the true reason you call a place a sensational Southern town is due to how it makes you feel.

Three Top Spots (USA)

Beautiful oaks & moss at Charles Towne Landing in Charleston, SC

Hopefully, most of us will agree that three of the top sensational spots that quickly come to mind across the South (USA) would be Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; and New Orleans, Louisiana. The commonalities include huge oak trees with flowing moss, fabulous architecture, fascinating history, and a full calendar of activities such as festivals and parades. Here is an article I wrote about Parks in Charleston; https://charlestongateway.com/features/lose-your-cares-in-charleston-parks-and-squares/ and a great source of info https://www.charlestoncvb.com/events/ .

Here’s a link for Savannah; https://visitsavannah.com/events .

Historic Jackson Square in New Orleans, LA

And here’s a link for New Orleans; https://www.visitneworleans.com/ .

Exceptional Side Trips

Sometimes though, one singular and exceptional item can make a smaller town just as memorable. For instance, a tiny town (Cleveland, Alabama) with a covered bridge or a medium-sized town (Tupelo, Mississippi) with a famous landmark that helped to change the world. These make great side trips during a longer road trip.

Here’s a link about the Swann Bridge; https://alabama.travel/places-to-go/swann-covered-bridge .

Birthplace of Elvis Presley in Tupelo, MS

Here’s a link about the Elvis birthplace; https://elvispresleybirthplace.com/ .

Friendly People

What else contributes to making a place a sensational Southern town? Let’s not forget the friendly people, the great food, and a variety of arts. The Murray family runs a goat farm in Pavo, Georgia, and are some of the most friendly and awesome folks I’ve ever met. Even the smallest farm town most likely has fine folks who leave a huge positive impression. Here’s a link about the goat farm; https://www.gratefulhillfarm.com/ .

Great Food

Did you know that Florence, South Carolina is a fantastic foodie town? This taste of heaven on earth at Victors includes potatoes, asparagus, steak, and shrimp with a bit of Cajun Cream. Can you say “yum, y’all” !?!?! Also, Florence is on the South Carolina Pecan Trail and has loads of delicious pecan specialties all over town…oh so good. Link here; https://visitflo.com/ .

Variety of Arts

Columbus, Mississippi

The childhood home of playwright Tennessee Williams is now a National Literary Landmark and the official Welcome Center of the town of Columbus, Mississippi. There visitors can appreciate historical art, furnishings, clothing, and learn many reasons why this house and this town are well worth a tour. While the original Angel of Grief is in Italy, ask the locals for directions to Friendship Cemetery to see one just like it. Link; https://visitcolumbusms.org/ .

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Down along the relaxing Gulf Coast, check out Ocean Springs, Mississippi, and its thriving art scene. Shown here is a stage setting of A Streetcar Named Desire (a Tennessee Williams play) which was performed at the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center. There you can find out how the legacy of the artistic Anderson family still continues to enrich the area, even after 100 years. Learn more here; https://oceanspringschamber.com/about-us/ .

“The Mary C.” helps keep art history alive in Ocean Springs, MS

Bainbridge, Georgia

If you prefer live music instead of live theatre, head for the annual Jazz & Blues Festival in Bainbridge, Georgia. Talented regional and national musicians play in multiple venues just a short walk from the lovely Willis Park fountain and gazebo. Foodies will find satisfying seafood, barbecue, and more while browsing the shops and art galleries. More info about Bainbridge here; https://visitbainbridgega.com/ .

Jazz & Blues meet BBQ and fun in Bainbridge, GA

TWO Great MURAL Towns !! Yep, I said it!

Dang y’all, I have a real soft spot for murals and love sharing them with you. Joplin, Missouri has several great murals. Here is part of one called The Butterfly Effect that has a multitude of gorgeous colors. You could spend hours discovering all the murals in two of my favorite towns filled with them… (Joplin, Missouri https://www.visitjoplinmo.com/ ) … and the town which I currently call home (Tallahassee, Florida https://visittallahassee.com/visitor-guide/ ).

Details of colorful butterfly mural in Joplin, MO

New murals are always being added to the Railroad Square Art District in my current home town of Tallahassee, Florida. As we say down South, we’ve got more murals here than you could shake a stick at… and y’all need to come on down to see for yourself. We will treat you so many ways that you’re bound to like some of them!

Art, culture, & creativity are alive and well in Tallahassee, FL

Look how much AMAZING INFO you now have about SENSATIONAL SOUTHERN TOWNS! You should probably start planning your next great road trip right now. Wonder how long it will take you to enjoy all twelve stops in these seven states? And by the time you’ve been there and done that… well, dang y’all… I will have more to share!

Remember to check out the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

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

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE…’cause you’re kind & you care! And, for goodness sake, if you love this stuff… then share it with folks so they can love it, too. Thanks y’all.

Encourage One Another

June 22, 2023 by angelchatt

Celebrate Every Win

Encourage one another! As a travel writer, I often read the blogs and books of other travel writers. This is especially exciting and motivating when I have met them in person or feel some other connection.

Because I choose to focus on the southeastern United States, I deeply appreciate writers who include those states in their travels. We Southerners are much more charming, diversified, inclusive, and incredible than others might admit.

Today I am blatantly advocating, encouraging, and promoting a travel writer by the name of Anna. Her blog is called Stuck on the Go and she is based in North Carolina. I am celebrating a big win that is about to happen for her. Some folks might wonder WHY one travel writer says something good about another. I mean, on some levels we may be competitors!

Here are three great quotes about competitors; (1.)”I looked at my competitors and I thought that, If they could do it, I could do it. And if, they are popular and doing well, I could compete with them.” — Tommy Hilfiger, fashion designer (2.)”There is a tendency among some businesses to criticize and belittle their competitors. This is a bad procedure. Praise them. Learn from them. There are times when you can co-operate with them to their advantage and to yours! Speak well of them and they will speak well of you. You can’t destroy good ideas. Take advantage of them.” — George Matthew Adams, columnist (3.)”The idea of competition, particularly in a creative atmosphere, is always there; if you don’t acknowledge that, you are doing yourself and the process a disservice.” — Jake Gyllenhaal

I believe in lifting others up and celebrating every win. Dang, y’all, we all know today’s world could sure use more good folks with good attitudes, right? Encourage one another! Build one another up!

Her Articles Are Very Informative And Helpful

CAN YOU IDENTIFY THIS TUSCALOOSA SPOT? Anna & I both love it!

Four of her articles really jumped out to me and proved quite helpful. https://www.stuckonthego.com/activities-in-tuscaloosa-al/ and https://www.stuckonthego.com/fun-things-to-do-in-hattiesburg-ms/ and https://www.stuckonthego.com/are-there-alligators-in-north-carolina/ and https://www.stuckonthego.com/your-ultimate-guide-to-charleston-sc/ I hope these may be of value to you! And I hope you will encourage one another!

Go, Anna, go! Go, Anna, go! I am rooting for you! So proud of how hard you have worked to create a fun and informative blog. Keep up your great work.

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Of Murals & Men, in Missouri

May 31, 2023 by angelchatt

You do know by now how much I love road trips, RIGHT? I am still waiting on some of y’all to comment on my previous article found here https://embracesouthernstates.com/nature-in-missouri/ … in the meantime let’s take a look at just a few “of murals & men, in Missouri” . This includes just a tiny fraction of the many inspiring historical figures, and amazing folks who are actively doing positive things there today.

Are you comfortable and ready to explore? Okay, we are fixin’ to have a bunch of fun! So grab a glass of sweet tea and come along with me!

George Washington Carver

The George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond, Missouri, is full, free, and fascinating! It is open from 9am until 5pm every day except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. You will learn new facts about this remarkable and resilient man.

While touring this first National Park to honor an African-American, you will enjoy monuments, photos, murals, multimedia, as well as the pleasure of exploring the 240-acre site at your own pace. I can pretty much guarantee that you will gain a deeper admiration of the plant lover who overcame many hardships to become a respected humanitarian, man of faith, scientist, and teacher.

Ampersand Sculpture

This eight foot tall ampersand (symbol for “and”) gives a nod to history and is located at 3434 S. Rangeline Road in Joplin.

When you study it up close and personal, you will see info on art, music, mining, and landmarks along Route 66. Also noted is the duo Bonnie & Clyde who hid out in a local building near 34th Street & Oak Ridge Drive. Dang, y’all, this is pretty cool.

Quilt Town, USA

Quilters already know that Hamilton is the town for every shop, gadget, and fabric that any quilt maker could ever need.

Others may know that it was the birthplace of left fielder Zack Wheat who was elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1959.

Still others may be aware that J. C. Penney was born on a farm just outside of Hamilton. He later became famous for founding a department store that bears his name.

Who Invented Sliced Bread?

The small town of Chillicothe, Missouri ,celebrates being the home of sliced bread and the unofficial holiday “Sliced Bread Day” is July 7th. Next time you reach for sliced bread to pop into your toaster, be sure to thank Otto Rohwedder and Frank Bench! Their names may not be familiar, but what they accomplished certainly is!

When you get to view this inspiring mural in person, you will probably agree that it is one of the greatest things since sliced bread!

Two Civil War Historical Sites

On the western edge of Missouri is a small town named Republic, where you can visit Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. This site of the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River has lots of educational information that includes exhibits, books, and a film. Two cannons rest on the hillside just outside the visitor center and museum.

About a three and a half hour drive to the eastern edge of the state will bring you to the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site just south of St. Louis. There you can watch a film, take a tour, or browse through the museum.

More Than Just A Library

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library first opened its door in 1957 and continues to expand and impress to this day. Here you can spend hours exploring the various sections, enjoying multimedia presentations, and viewing the murals and other artwork.

Inside you can find a replica of the Oval Office or browse through the Museum Store (gift shop). Outside you can walk around the courtyard to view a freedom flame and the final resting place of Truman, his wife, and their daughter. Dang, y’all, this place rocks!

Of Mice & Men & Marceline

Whenever you think of Disney, do you first think of the man (Walt) or the mouse (Mickey) or the theme parks? After visiting the Walt Disney Hometown Museum, you may just change your answer to “Marceline, Missouri”! This place is awesome!

Whether you are age three or ninety-three, your experience in Marceline will stay in your heart. As a baby boomer, I was reminded of both Davy Crockett and the Mickey Mouse Club. And, yes, I can remember all the words to both theme songs! Oh, you can also buy t-shirts with the quotes mentioned in the above photo.

Meet a Ranger in Van Buren

Shaun Heise grew up in Missouri and has worked for the National Park Service for eight years. His official title is Lower Current District Interpretive Ranger. Shaun loves sharing facts about the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which includes Big Spring and Alley Spring.

Shaun says these waters are always cool, have existed since prehistoric times, and are fascinating from a geological perspective. He is one friendly ranger who is eager to pass along knowledge about Missouri and the Ozark culture. I sure hope you get to meet him soon.

Meet A Riverboat Captain

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a short cruise on the Mississippi River? A great way to achieve that goal is to climb aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat in Hannibal, Missouri, and meet Captain Steve.

He shares great info about life on the river both now and in the past. His wife Sandy works in the gift shop and his sister is often found working the galley. Captain Steve is a well-known local celebrity in Hannibal and a walking encyclopedia of deep details and riverboat realities.

Meet This Wonderful Waiter

When you are ready to wet your whistle with homemade root beer, go to the Mark Twain Dinette in Hannibal. Be sure to ask for Bobby as your server. He is one of the kindest and most helpful people in town. Bobby listens closely to his customers, then takes time to thoughtfully answer even their strangest questions.

I love to ask folks what travel destinations are on their bucket list. Bobby said New Zealand tops his list. For great conversation, just ask how he feels about the St. Louis Cardinals! I am so thrilled to have met Bobby on my travels, because he really touched my heart.

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Now that you’ve seen the photos of murals and men in Missouri…and a tiny bit about each story, PLEASE take a minute to tell me which impressed YOU the most. Remember that leaving a COMMENT here makes it easier for me to keep giving YOU more people, places, and photos to help plan your travels!

Here are links for more info: (1.) https://www.nps.gov/places/george-washington-carver-national-monument.htm (2.) https://www.visitjoplinmo.com/ (3.)https://visithamiltonmo.com/ (4.) https://visitchillicothe.com/ (5a.) https://www.nps.gov/wicr/index.htm (5b.) https://www.nps.gov/ulsg/index.htm (6.) https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/ (7.)https://www.waltdisneymuseum.org/ (8.)https://www.nps.gov/ozar/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm (9.)https://marktwainriverboat.com/ (10.)https://www.marktwaindinette.com/

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Let me know if you need ANY help planning your next Southern road trip…I would love to negotiate with you as you embrace the best trip ever!

Nature In Missouri

May 20, 2023 by angelchatt

Recently I enjoyed a wonderful 10-day road trip in Missouri. I’ve decided to do a few articles about that, starting with NATURE! So this one, a wistful photo documentary, is for all the nature lovers. Check out these photos, then PLEASE leave a Comment letting me know which ones you like best. Nature in Missouri …rivers, springs, mountains, caves, and so much more!

Big Spring…Place & Thing & Spring & Beauty

The largest freshwater spring in Missouri, “Big Spring”, can be found near the southeastern town of Van Buren. Find highway 60 and then head south on highway 103 and you will enter the park. It is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways that protects over 130 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. Once you have found it, you may never want to leave. This place of quiet beauty is a fine example of soothing natural splendor at its best.

Alley Spring Could Make Your Heart Sing

Alley Spring and the Alley Mill were featured on a quarter in 2017 as part of celebrating America the Beautiful. After you leave Big Spring, take highway 60 to Winona then 19 to Eminence and finally 106 to Alley Spring. The extremely friendly park rangers there will gladly and patiently answer all your questions about the blue water and all fascinating local natural resources. See the one room schoolhouse and the general store before you depart.

Be Brave & Rave About This Cave

In the charming and nostalgic town of Hannibal, Missouri, you can prove that you are brave by touring Mark Twain Cave. Of course, later you will rave about all you learned inside. The narrow passages are dimly lit and chilly. You can experience total darkness and see a hideout used by Jesse James. Enjoy tales about the fictional characters Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher as you search for signatures written on the walls.

Fun Of Driving In The Mountains

Dang, y’all, this writer lives in a fairly flat section of Florida. So I was thrilled to take a drive early one morning in the misty mountains of Missouri. Every twist and hairpin turn was a total joy. Pockets of thick mist are so enchanting and tiny hints of blue sky simply seem to promise that more adventure will be around every curve. Traffic was very light that day and, of course, so was my spirit.

Abundant Colors Along The Riverbanks And Bluffs

Tiny white clouds in the blue sky fade into the background as the give and take of yellow sunshine and brown shadow play among the green and purple trees. The multiple tones of brown and gray rocks give way to yellow foliage in the foreground. Why do such colors thrill me so? I don’t rightly know. They are a playful and peaceful party in my mind.

This Color Is Called Stellar Pink

What do you think of the stellar pink shade of flower found on this dogwood? I spied this gorgeous young specimen on the grounds of White Haven (part of U.S.Grant historic site) just ten or so miles south of downtown St. Louis, Missouri. The bush was only four feet high and should grow into a lovely tree.

Oh Cow, How Art Thou?

Usually cows run away when a stranger approaches. But these adorable bovines stood stoically still and studied me just as I studied them in their meadow. Then the little darlings once again quietly chewed their cud and contemplated the cosmos. After my own brief cow admiration and self-deliberation, I decided upon salad in lieu of hamburger.

Happy Diamond Dew On Rising Ground

Has the sight of grass ever inspired you to recite a poem? When I found this mound of rising ground wet with dew that shined like diamonds, I recalled a haiku I had written years before. “Grass in the morning is wet with tears of angels, maybe tears for me.” These dewdrops do seem like happy tears.

Whether Or Not Nature Is Weather

Have you ever experienced weird weather in Missouri? In that span of 10 days I saw torrential rain, flooding, a rock slide, and two tornadoes. A dear friend and I were forced to cut short our photo shoot and sit in her car for about an hour due to a sudden hail storm. On the positive side, I did see a rainbow and a double rainbow. I just had to wonder how much powerful and weird weather this old barn has survived…and how much longer it may stand.

Does nature take back or reclaim her own…quickly or slowly? We may say slowly if we watch growth creep up weekly or monthly. This once beautiful house could take decades to deteriorate and become uninhabitable. Just the thought makes me eerily pensive, perhaps wistful…and oh the stories it inspires.

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Plan your Missouri road trip with great info https://www.visitmo.com/ Riverways info can be found here https://www.nps.gov/ozar/learn/index.htm Mark Twain Cave info website is https://www.marktwaincave.com/ Grant site is https://www.nps.gov/ulsg/index.htm

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Thanks for stopping by and I do hope you left a kind Comment! Which photo did you love?

Best Gluten Free Road Trip Snacks

April 10, 2023 by angelchatt

As final preparations are underway for a ten-day road trip, I wanted to share with you my favorite and best gluten free road trip snacks. They are loosely categorized as fruit, grain, protein, sweets, or some combination of the same.

FRUIT

My favorite fresh fruit for travel is banana. I mean, come on y’all, a ripe banana in its own pretty yellow peel is just so dang happy-looking and cute. I find a banana to be delicious and almost impossible to resist. I can pat myself on the back for eating healthy, while gleefully giggling since a banana is so sweet and yummy.

GRAIN

For grains, I prefer the General Mills Apple and Cinnamon Cheerios, which are oats. https://www.generalmillscf.com/products/category/cereal/box/apple-cinnamon-box-large-14-2-oz They are so convenient and can easily be packed into any size container. Plus, this is another snack that satisfies my sweet tooth.

PROTEIN

Proteins are the most versatile group and can include meats, beans, and nuts. My go-to meat is Old Wisconsin turkey sausage sticks. https://www.oldwisconsin.com/snacks/snack-sticks/turkey Each pack normally contains from ten to twelve sticks and each one is about one-half ounce.

The best bean choice for me is edamame, and The Only Bean company based in Las Vegas https://theonlybean.com/ has crunchy roasted edamame that I dearly love.

As far as nuts go, I like to take any small jar of peanut butter or peanut and honey spread because it is smooth. This can easily be put on cookies.

Sometimes I will grab several varieties of trail mix, take out the bits I don’t like, and create my own special blend. This usually includes stuff like chocolate, mango, raisins, and yogurt.

SWEETS

Sweets… yes, I’ve already mentioned items that may be sweet, but have saved my three best gluten free road trip snacks in the sweet category for last. In case you haven’t figured it out yet, I love sweets!

Even though I am not Italian, I happen to enjoy the heck out of biscotti. There are many good brands of these wonderful gluten free biscuit cookies. Most include small slivers of almonds, and the ones I like add cranberry. They are awesome for dipping into my morning coffee.

The top choice for cookies goes to Mi-Del Swedish Style ginger snaps. https://midelcookies.com/category/products/gluten-free/ As a wordsmith, I admit that it is hard to put into words just how great they are or why I crave them so much. I mean, ginger and molasses, so so so awesome! In my opinion there is only one sweet treat in the universe that could be any better than that.

By now you are probably hungry for the best gluten free road trip snacks. And you are wondering what my absolute favorite could be, right? Here it is! Take some shredded and sweetened coconut, then cover it with decadently delicious dark chocolate. What you have there is a Mounds candy bar! https://www.hersheyland.com/mounds THIS is my all-time number one sweet treat.

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