Just a few minutes north of Tallahassee on Highway 27 is the lovely little town of Havana. Have you been to Havana, Florida? With all the quintessential quaintness and charm of a small Southern town, Havana also claims a unique history which started with shade tobacco.
Full of antique shops, cafes, and murals, Havana is a fabulous find for both foodies and shoppers seeking a peaceful and scenic place to explore. You can leisurely stroll the streets and discover prime photo ops or the perfect memento to take back home.
Come with me now on this pretty pictorial tour of Havana.
Welcome to Havana, Florida. This adorable town of under 2,000 residents is known for its friendliness and its history of growing shade tobacco. There is even a shade tobacco museum that many have called a hidden gen. Havana is also now known for a growing number of fantastic art galleries and festivals.
SO MANY MURALS
Don’t you just love murals? I certainly do! Havana has an abundance of attractive murals which depict trains, fountains, bicycles, quilts, flowers, and more. I appreciate the talent of artists who share their vibrant creations so that all may enjoy.
SO MUCH TO EXPLORE
The community park area includes a butterfly garden where water bubbles from the top of a giant blue urn. Nearby is a Veterans memorial, a library, and a playground.
Blue urn with bubbling water makes my joy bubble over.
DOWNTOWN DELIGHTS
For such a small town, Havana is extremely picturesque. Community pride is evident in every shop, every festival, and every yard sale. The Planter’s Exchange and the Shade Tobacco museum honor the local history. Newer not-to-miss spots include the AHA Art Gallery and Weezie’s Cottage.
Dang, y’all, such a cute yard sale.
A MOST PLEASANT PLACE
On the outskirts of town is a most pleasant and wonderful place called Whitetail Hollow Farms. Once or twice a year they offer a tour to educate visitors about the holistic practices used on this outstanding agritourism farmstead. I love their huge variety of animals, especially cows, ducks, chickens, and emu.
Havana is a most pleasant place where life moves at a most pleasant pace. Have you been to Havana, Florida yet? Be sure to visit and allow the complete charm of this small town to embrace you. Dang, y’all will be glad you did!
The emu will be glad to see you. Don’t be chicken to come visit !!
Decatur Street, New Orleans: Colorful Architecture, Balconies, & Street Lamps.
How To Relax At Jackson Square In New Orleans
Here is a pictorial guide to my favorite ways to relax in and around the Jackson Square area of the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. You can spend several leisurely hours in this one small section of the city. This is an awesome place to try to see and do everything. Or RELAX, do hardly anything, yet still take tons of great photos to help remember your day.
Beauty & Celebration Take Many Forms
Practically as soon as I step out of the vehicle, at the Jax Lot (corner of Decatur and Toulouse), I begin to shoot photos. The architecture of old buildings (many from the 1700’s) combines so well with balconies and the fancy ornamentation of the wrought iron.
Wrought Iron: Great View In The Vieux Carre
New Orleans celebrates everything. On this most recent visit, I spoke with folks enjoying reunions, honeymoons, graduations, and retirements. Perhaps you can figure out which special day it was when you spot the green shamrocks. Yes, the ones on the balcony above the horse-drawn carriage.
The Crescent City Always Creates Memories
Down by the River
The riverfront is a photo op where you can see either the City of New Orleans or the Steamboat Natchez. There are two sections of the riverfront park. Woldenberg was named for a funder, while Moonwalk was named for former mayor “Moon” Landrieu.
City Of New Orleans Sits On The Mississippi River
While at the river you may see a gate where hundred of padlocks have been attached. This spot is known as Love Wins. It is where happy couples pledge their everlasting love together. It may not be historic, but Love Wins is a beautiful spot for anyone who believes in romantic love.
Couple Pledge Their Love With Locks Then Throw Key In River
Works of Art
After you climb the stairs to see the cannon at Washington Artillery Park, you may wish to browse for souvenirs or local art. You have three choices; local indoor shops, the open-air French Market, or the art displayed all around the fencing of Jackson Square. How exciting to search for your special memento as you wonder which of the local artists already is, or may become, famous.
THIS! This Is A Classic Scene At Jackson Square! Art Is Found Everywhere At Every Price Range
Take some time to consider the St. Louis Cathedral and the Andrew Jackson statue. Hopefully, you can put aside any religious or political issues long enough to appreciate that they are each a genuine work of art in their own way. Really stopping to take some mindfulness moments here at Jackson Square can be so very soothing on multiple levels. Listen to the sounds of the city, smell the newly mown lawn, watch the people who watch the artists who capture the joy of this place on canvas.
Works Of Art In Their Own Way
Colorful Characters
Call them weird, unexpected, bizarre, or fascinating… there is no shortage of colorful characters in this section of New Orleans.
Just One Of Many Characters At Jackson Square
You may spot a colorful character who is riding a bike, or playing an instrument, or is one of the many other types of street performers. Some seem to wear outlandish clothes for no reason, while others seek attention long enough to pass out literature for a favorite cause. And, of course, some are simply promoting the goods and services they want you to buy.
What’s This, A Living Leprechaun?
My Favorite Happy Ending
How many times have I been to New Orleans? SO, so many that I’ve lost count. But I can tell you this, my all-time favorite way to end a visit in the “Big Easy” is to sit leisurely eating fresh and hot beignets at Café du Monde. To me, life just does not get much better than that! I’ve stopped there with relatives or by myself. On this occasion I was with my best friend. We were having a wonderful time doing what everyone should do in New Orleans… and that is to take it easy and make very precious memories…and remember how to relax at Jackson Square in New Orleans!
Come with me on a pictorial discovery of details in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. This is one of my favorite small towns on the Gulf Coast. That is due in part to the tiny, yet important, little details which I gleefully discover each time I visit.
You are invited to notice these adorable details that help us see the bigger picture of why Ocean Springs is a great travel destination. Then all you have to do is decide when you want to go and which of these places you plan to see.
Marshall Park is located at 1001 Washington Avenue and was first opened to the public in 1911. I walked all around the block seeking just the perfect spot for this shot. Notice how the gazebo is “framed” by tree branches, flowers, benches, and …there on the left…can you even see the American flag? Such an inviting place to relax for a bit and simply appreciate a lovely day.
As you turn off Highway 90 onto Washington Avenue, think about why Ocean Springs is called City of Discovery. In the mid-1600’s this area was being explored by the French, Spanish, and English. The French built Fort Maurepas here in 1699, but noted that the area was prone to flooding. Those of us familiar with Camille and Katrina would tend to agree. By the way, in your search for details, did you happen to notice the yellow daffodil by this sign?
The bottle tree is a tradition brought from Africa and fairly common in the South as a way to capture bad spirits who would have ruined your garden! This one stands guard by the Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, which is housed in an historic L&N train depot. Love how the sun adds gleaming accent details to these bottles.
Fresh Market takes place downtown each Saturday morning. The vast variety of produce, food, flowers, and related items by local vendors is truly tremendous. I completely fell in love with Buff’s (candied) VooDoo Peppers, made in Gulfport only 17 miles away.
In Ocean Springs, life is calm and casual with plenty of time to leisurely stroll around the beautiful town to do a little shopping. Be sure to check out Hillyer House for gift ideas. Then a few doors down at French Kiss Pastries find desserts like the carrot cake or fresh fruit cake pictured above, love those layered details. They also have sandwiches, pastries, and gelato.
Three Anderson brothers (Walter, Mac, and Peter) started an art movement in 1928. Over the past nearly 100 years, other family members, friends, proteges, and admirers have helped to transform this once sleepy little town into a true art mecca. Ocean Springs is a fun and vibrant place due in large part to painters, potters, actors, and writers who find their inspiration here. By the way, the above example of Walter Anderson art is found in a rather unexpected room. Can you guess where it may be? Leave a Comment if you’d like more details!
Early morning sun shining on the water is just one of the details I look for at the harbor. Photos of shrimp boats and pleasure boats seem to just pop better in good light. Can you picture yourself here buying fresh seafood right off the boats?
The final stop I usually make in Ocean Springs is this lovely spot at the beach. I listen to the sound of the gulls and the waves coming to shore. I feel the warmth of the sun and the sand under my bare feet. As I take in the last sights, smells, and sounds… I think about how blessed and joyful I am to spend time here…then I wonder what fascinating details will be discovered… …next time!
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 !!
