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New Orleans: Relax At Jackson Square

May 24, 2022 by angelchatt

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.

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.

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!

ILOVENEWORLEANS ILOVENOLA ILOVENEWORLEANS ILOVENOLA

If you like this article, please add a kind Comment. Be sure to check out more info on Facebook and Instagram… https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates and https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ .

Mississippi Magic & Mother Goose

March 2, 2022 by angelchatt

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 7^th 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:

Main Street Columbus (Barbara Bigelow)https://www.msmainstreet.com/communities/main_street_columbus

Visit Columbus (Nancy Carpenter)http://www.visitcolumbusms.org/

Columbus Arts (Jan Miller)http://columbus-arts.org/

Friendly City Books (Emily Liner)https://www.friendlycitybooks.com/

Tenn-Tom Museum (Hope Oakes)https://www.tenntom.org/ttw-museum/

Farmstead (on Facebook)https://www.facebook.com/Farmstead-Restaurant-165176093594541/

Public Library (Mother Goose)https://www.lowndeslibrary.com/mother-goose

Jazz & Blues in South Georgia

February 7, 2022 by angelchatt

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.

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.

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.

This couple expressed such joy as they danced.

DANCING !!! I absolutely love the pure joy on the face of this dancing couple. For a video of another dancing couple, see https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ .

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.

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 !!

TASTING ART ON A BALCONY

September 28, 2021 by angelchatt

Where can you go in southern Georgia to taste art on a balcony? Here is the intriguing story which leads to an exciting answer!

The old second floor of this historical building (circa 1899) had sat unused for over sixty years. An ambitious young couple poured hours of love and labor into the restoration. They created a boutique hotel and an amazing café that now add a dazzling shine to a delightful corner.

Six elegant rooms with names such as “The Music Room” and “The Library Suite” are waiting for fine folks like you to come curl up in comfy beds. While there, you can enjoy such amenities as a private gym and access to a person concierge.

Brick interior walls add so much character.

Can you believe this place also includes exposed brick interior walls, original oil paintings, and gorgeous antiques? Are you sitting on the edge of your seat yet? Do you want to know whether such a place exists? Who are these people? Where is this building? What’s the deal about a balcony? What’s the part about tasting art?

Who are these people?

Tyler & Heather started new family & new business.

The young couple is Tyler and Heather Thomas. A few years ago, they moved to a small town in the state of Georgia. The population was only around 12,700. This did not deter them from starting both a family and a business there. That business, located on a beautiful town square, is a restaurant named The American. It has thrived and set a new standard for extraordinary fare made from scratch daily. This encouraged them to take on an even more daunting opportunity.

Where is this building?

So much to discover in historic Bainbridge, Georgia.

In the southwestern corner of the state of Georgia, you will find the town of Bainbridge. This is where U.S. Highways 27 and 84 meet the Flint River. At the corner of W. Water Street and N. Broad Street you will discover a captivating historic town square named Willis Park which opened to the public in 1904.

Hotel crowned with gold is SO VERY worth your visit!

Across the way is the newly restored and opened Willis Park Hotel. This wonderful white building is accented with silver and crowned with gold. While the address is 129 E. Water Street, the best entrance is found around the corner on Broad and is well marked.

What about the balcony?

Balcony view only hints to the town’s charm.

This talented Thomas couple seems to have quite the knack for restoration and adding just the right aesthetic touch. They were convinced that this corner would benefit from a balcony. And right they were, this is the best place from which to view the pleasant and picturesque historic downtown with its quaint town square. As you take in the charm, you see fabulous architecture, church steeples, statues, and even a gazebo.

What about tasting art?

You need to experience Cafe Sinclair… soon!

Café Sinclair is the perfect spot for breakfast waffles and eggs or a sandwich or fruit tart for lunch. I really LOVE those cute fruit tarts.

Could a fruit tart be art? Yes, I guess!

It is also a classy place that hosts “Meet the Artist” from time to time. The first one featured Melissa Mills and was a huge success. This evening event combines a casual mingle with a swanky soiree and the result is a super combo of art and culture. There are even copycat cookies by Crumby Couture that replicate works of art…that you can EAT. So, food as art meets art as food! I love that so much! Tasting art on a balcony is a real thing!

Artist Melissa Mills with owner Heather Thomas.

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You are probably ready to plan your own trip to Bainbridge, aren’t you? Great! Be sure to introduce yourself to Heather at Cafe Sinclair, and tell her you enjoyed reading this article. Here are some links that will prove helpful for you.

The Willis Park Hotel https://www.thewillisparkhotel.com/

Cafe Sinclair https://www.facebook.com/CafeSinclair

Crumby Couture https://www.facebook.com/crumbycouture

(artist) Melissa Mills https://www.instagram.com/lissagordonart/

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Remember to leave a nice Comment if you enjoyed this article. You can find Embrace Southern States on our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates and on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ . You are important and precious to me, please let me know what other people or places you’d like to learn more about…as long as they are in the southeastern United States, I could go there and let you know!

Did You Know … Tuscaloosa, Alabama

July 2, 2021 by angelchatt

I honestly had no idea that Tuscaloosa IS so full of unexpected sights and interesting stuff! Here are a few photos I hope you will enjoy…. and they are followed by a link to my latest article in Rovology .

Unexpected sight, I had to go touch it ! You know, to prove I really saw it.

“Stonehenge” in Alabama… who knew? Just another unexpected sight.

So, now that you have taken a quick look at some of the photos that did NOT make it into this latest travel article… it seems only fair that you go to this link and see those that DID. But remember to come back HERE to leave me some nice and kind comments… because that’s what nice and kind folks should do, right?

Here’s the link: https://rovology.com/united-states/alabama/best-things-to-do-in-tuscaloosa-alabama/

Ever Heard of Rabun County, Georgia?

April 23, 2021 by angelchatt

The mountains in the state of Georgia are an ideal place to breathe fresh air and allow yourself to completely relax. Up in the northeastern corner you will find Rabun county filled with tiny towns that are packed with beauty.

What is there to do in a tiny mountain town? In Rabun county you can find cozy rental cabins, lovely lakes, and tons of outdoor area to leisurely explore and photograph. Or if you prefer a more active and physical adventure, then hike, bike, climb, camp, fish, and swim to your heart’s content.

Still not enough? How about checking out some of the numerous community markets, wineries, distilleries, and golf clubs? Now that is guaranteed to keep you as busy as you want to be for as long as you wish to be. Here are a few suggestions to ponder as you plan your road trip to Rabun county, Georgia.

From 9am until 2pm every Saturday (May through October) the Community Market is your best spot to find all the best stuff from all the best local growers and makers. Find art, crafts, produce, honey, homemade treats, and more than the mind can handle. There is often live music and there is always something for everyone. Located at the pavilion at 201 South Savannah Street in the town of Clayton. Also in Clayton is Moonrise Distillery https://moonrisedistillery.com/ or Kingwood Resort and Winery https://kingwoodresort.com/ or the Proper Pub .

Now let’s say you’d rather start exploring at the very tip top town in this part of Georgia, well that would be Sky Valley. Here you can find the ( https://www.skyvalleycountryclub.com/ ) Sky Valley Golf and Country Club. Lots of artisan shops, restaurants, yard sales, and breath-taking mountain views abound.

Just to the south is Dillard, quite well-known for the Dillard House boarding house and restaurant http://www.dillardhouse.com/restaurant/ . Also has an amazing amount of antique shops. Find a full line of whiskey and bourbon at https://www.rmroseco.com/ R.M. Rose Distillers.

Next little place to the south is Rabun Gap, admittedly one of my favorites. This is where the Sylvan Falls Mill Bed and Breakfast https://www.sylvanfallsmill.com/ will amaze you with their great food and their own private waterfall! Yes, so very awesome.

Well, that is just a sampling of the wonderful and delightful finds in the mountains of Rabun county, Georgia. I wish you happy vacation planning. Do be sure to let me know if you went there and what you liked about it. Thank you.

My Exuberant Recap of 2020 !

December 20, 2020December 18, 2020 by angelchatt

Yes, I know most people have been moaning and groaning for the entire strange year. Well, darlin’, y’all just ought to know by now that I am NOT most people! My favorite word is exuberant, and that is how I choose to look back on this weirdest of years.

I choose to look back…with exuberance and celebration!

I celebrate dear friends who survived cancer, friends who survived kidney stones and broken bones and hurricanes. I celebrate dear friends who used it as a time to get creative with music, writing, photography, painting, and woodwork. I celebrate that everyone who reads this has survived elections and the pandemic.

I appreciate the wonderful people who gifted me roses, slippers, travel bags, and a girl’s night out at a favorite restaurant. I even more deeply appreciate the special ones who built a handmade bookcase, gifted me beautiful jewelry, washed my car, and restored my antique trunk.

Here are just a few things I managed to accomplish in 2020. I survived some broken teeth and a broken wrist. I did a lot of book reading and took several online courses. I learned new technology and launched my own website https://embracesouthernstates.com/ … on which I have posted many travel stories and local interviews. Travel articles I actually got paid for have included info on Louisiana, Mississippi, and Florida.

I made many new friends and one of them interviewed me on her podcast. I made my first ever Facebook video. I made my first ever batch of gluten-free cookies. I painted some artwork and participated in a Pop-Up Art Gallery. On a different “painting” note, I painted my bedroom furniture in a Mardi Gras theme of purple, green, and gold.

Currently I am doing a lot of research and “tasting” for some upcoming food articles. I am watching as much SEC football as possible. My four favorite teams have always been (and always will be) Georgia Bulldogs, Alabama Crimson Tide, Ole Miss Rebels, and LSU Tigers.

Who knew research for food articles could be so much fun!

I am still learning technology. Does anyone really understand SEO and how to get backlinks? If so, please explain it to me in simple words!!

As I look back over all of this…there has been much success and much cause to rejoice. No, it has not all been puppies and rainbows…but I remain positive. I continue to make a conscious choice to celebrate every little thing…and to be a joyful person.

As the year 2020 is drawing to a close, I wish you a Merry Christmas. I also wish you the biggest, boldest, brightest BADASS year in 2021!!

If you wish to do so…PLEASE share reasons that YOU choose to celebrate and to be joyful. That would be awesome!