Welcome Centers are a wonderful place to get out of the car, find a clean restroom, and find great travel information. Today I’m sharing info and photos of two of the most welcoming Welcome Centers which I frequent as a driver on Interstate 10. I’m including lots of reasons why you should see these two I-10 Welcome Centers and be among the wanderers warmly welcomed.
Alabama
Let’s say you have been driving East from the Mississippi Gulf Coast and need a stretch break with plenty to see and do. Set your GPS for 10226 Hall Road in Grand Bay, Alabama 36541. This beautiful and spacious Welcome Center was completed in 2016 and has been called the “Grandest of All, Like the Taj Mahal!” I kid you not, folks in Alabama really do say that!
Welcome Center in Grand Bay, Alabama.Fabulous sculptures to appreciate.Did Mardi Gras begin here?Enjoy Sweet Home Alabama.
As you approach, notice the many sea creatures and coastal theme of the artwork inside and out. Once inside be sure to look at the intricate details on the floor and the ceiling. Not only can you pick up brochures, but you can also ask plenty of questions that will be kindly answered by the great staff. They can even explain some of the Mardi Gras items on display and the facts about when Mardi Gras really started in this area.
Your fabulous experience at the Grand Bay Welcome Center will get you excited to see so much more of “Sweet Home Alabama” and there is SO MUCH to see. https://alabama.travel/
Florida
After you drive from Alabama and cross into Florida, you will only need to go about 4 miles. Then you will find the Pensacola (Escambia County) Welcome Center. First you will see a Blue Angel aircraft and several other great photo ops that you will want to post on your Instagram.
Check out the great info about native bear, panther, and other animals. Then check out the adorable artwork of flamingos above the entrance. You will find wanderers warmly welcomed here as the friendly staff will offer you a free juice and excellent recommendations on whatever you may wish to do in Florida.
Florida welcomes photo ops.Informative native animal facts.Pink flamingos above you?Welcoming facts all around you.
Pick up destination info on beaches, museums, parks, swamps, and so many other great attractions you may have never even thought of before. Read a few outside at the covered picnic tables, take a brief walk, then enjoy the remainder of your journey as you reflect on wanderers warmly welcomed. https://www.visitflorida.com/
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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.
Susan loves Tallahassee, her hometown.
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.
Make time for being in the moment.
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.
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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/ .
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.
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/ .
The friendly Murray family in Pavo, GA
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/ .
A most memorable meal in Florence, SC
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/ .
Art takes many forms in Columbus, MS
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!
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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!
OK, sure, when folks think about St. Patrick’s Day it brings to mind green shamrocks, green hats, or green beer! And of course… dear old Ireland. While ’tis true that I’d love to once again visit Ireland, sometimes I celebrate St. Paddy’s with a New Orleans flair.
Is that a French horse? Today it’s Irish, of course!
Not to worry, though, if you didn’t make it to Ireland this year, or… ever, you probably already know that you can celebrate the wearing of the green anywhere. (Another great place…in the South…would be Savannah, Georgia, where the parade lasts for hours.) Do you have a special place where you love to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? Do they have great food, great music, or a great parade? Tell us about that in your comments.
Plenty of “what is that” while people pass by.
Today I am sharing with you a variety of adorable photos taken on St. Paddy’s Day around Jackson Square in New Orleans, Louisiana. Think of it as putting a French Quarter twist or a Cajun accent on the beloved Irish celebration.
Kilt & bagpipe to celebrate the Gaelic heritage. Sweet fun in Jackson Square. How do you picture New Orleans?
My hope is that you will read this article out loud with your best Irish accent, then have a good laugh! THEN be a dear one to leave a Comment your favorite photo about St. Paddy’s with a New Orleans flair! That’s not really asking too much, is it? Now I wish you TOP O’ THE MORNING and MAY THE LUCK OF THE IRISH BE WITH YOU!
JOY is the theme! Which joyful 2022 photos do YOU like best? Which ones make you feel most joyful, and why? Your Comment would certainly be most welcomed and appreciated!
It is true…every picture does tell a story. As I looked back over hundreds of photos and tried to decide on just 12, these kept jumping out at me…jumping for joy! After you study each, then consider the (greatly condensed) story behind it…what are your gut reactions?
Does the photo alone cause you to feel joy, or does that come along after you know more of the details? What do you think of this style of simple photography with little or no extra processing? Have you been to any of these locations? How do you find examples of joy during your travels?
Embracing the Moment
The expression of complete joy on this man’s face is precious! Despite the February chill, he fully embraced the moment during a jazz festival in Bainbridge, Georgia. Watching him dance with so much enthusiasm warmed my heart and lifted my spirit several notches.
Food is a frequent topic of my articles and photos. While at that same jazz festival, I happily embraced the moment to enjoy barbecue and potato salad. Do you have a favorite BBQ story that makes you smile?
During a Florida art festival, I helped kids choose free art projects. This young man eagerly chose sidewalk chalk art. He tuned out the world and diligently created art, bringing joy to everyone. When he thanked me, I cried… and thanked God for talented youngsters.
Embracing Simple Pleasures
The early morning sun can make this simple tree bottle glimmer and gleam. Every time I visit Ocean Springs, Mississippi, I make a special point to go see it. I honestly can’t explain why an old ‘haint tree brings me so much pleasure. Can you?
Life is good! Two best friends (Angela & Nina) await hot coffee and beignets at Cafe du Monde in New Orleans, Louisiana. Have you and your best friend ever shared this simple and delicious pleasure? (Tell me in “Comments” below.)
Somewhere around Mobile, Alabama, I got off the main roads…on purpose. Murals seem to call out to me, waiting to be discovered and appreciated. They always (YES ALWAYS) bring me right back to that sense of childlike wonder! Do you love murals?
Maddie is my beautiful calico cat. I just love how the April morning light bounced around the room and highlighted her so perfectly. I strongly prefer these simple photos without extra processing… easy shots that evoke profound emotions.
Embracing a Destination’s Diversity
Charleston, South Carolina is an award-winning city… a kaleidoscope of colors and cultures. Areas of unexpected energy and excitement mix with others of serenity and charm. I marvel at how one place can be so beautiful…and so very eclectic!
Bright costumes like this one represent Caribbean heritage as the parade kicks off Charleston Carifest each June. The parade is followed by music, dancing, food, and fun. Don’t you think her joyful smile is just as lovely as her costume?
I was (very unexpectedly) invited to attend and photograph an LGBT Pride pool party. Rainbow cups, flags, swimsuits, and headbands were everywhere. Folks were friendly and conversant, but a few did avoid the camera. An eye-opening event on multiple levels!
Walking in the historic district brings to view stately homes with lush landscapes behind walls of wrought iron or stone. Charleston is called “the Holy City” because of the numerous church steeples usually present in the background.
Embracing Honeymoon Memories
On our October honeymoon, Tony and I loved exploring the historic Windsor Hotel in Americus, Georgia. This view from the 3rd floor veranda looks across to the circular tower where we occupied the Carter Presidential Suite! Dang, y’all, talk about SWEET !!
Art is joy, joy is art!!! Every art lover needs to visit Georgia’s “Pasaquan”, to be surrounded by acres of vibrant art. Every building, wall, stairway, and post is a one-of-a-kind delight. One man’s obsession has become a treasure for the world, in my artistic opinion!!
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Dang, y’all… there you have it. These 12 photos bring out the best memories of my 2022 travels. While they may not win awards for expert skills or techniques, they do give you a clear view of what I value in a photo.
How do you relate to this? What are you first reactions? YOUR KINDEST AND MOST SINCERE COMMENTS ARE ALWAYS ENCOURAGED !!! Ask me a question or leave a comment, I really do long to hear from you. Please remember that you can also join the conversation in the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates … THANK YOU and may we all take joyful photos in this joyful new year !!!
How to have a sweet wedding filled with joy, fun, and special memories. This is easier than you would imagine if you remember to keep it simple and let the core character of the wedding couple shine through.
Yes, I’m using my own very recent wedding as the example here. I am Angela, a travel writer who loves to focus on all things “Southern”. I grew up in Mississippi. Later I fell in love with Tony, the kindest man on earth, who happens to be from New Jersey! We now live in Florida.
Tony & Angela … kindness & joy !
Anyway, the theme of our wedding was “Share the Joy”, because that just made the most sense for us. Crafting sweet handmade decorations that also served as mementos for each guest added a quaint and charming individualized touch.
VENUE & OFFICIANT
Our idea of a sweet wedding meant something small, simple, and nearby. We kept the guest list to under twenty and decided to have it in our home. I asked a dear friend to be the officiant and was so thrilled that she said yes (thanks, Deb).
ATTIRE
For this comfortable celebration, we suggested everyone dress casually. The groom wore soft shades of golden brown with black sneakers. The bride wore a dark green dress with golden brown shrug and multicolored paisley sneakers. Everyone there felt relaxed and looked fabulous.
The bride & officiant show off FUN footwear!
CHOSEN FAMILY
A total of seventeen people were together as our chosen family, regardless of actual kinship. We addressed this in the ceremony, welcoming them as precious chosen family into our home to enhance and embrace our concept of loved ones and togetherness.
There were no traditional attendants…everyone in attendance was an integral part of the special event. Every single loved one jumped in with their own unique skill and ability to add a remarkable pizzazz of perfection to the day. Love, joy, and a deep sense of belonging filled the air (thanks everyone).
SPEAK NOW
Apparently, a legal wedding must include time for objections. We added that same “speak now” opportunity for positive words. This turned out to be one of the most touching and heart-warming features of the ceremony.
VOWS
Tony spoke his vows from the heart and mentioned ways that we bring out the best in each other. I used song titles and lyrics to emphasize my enthusiasm. Several guests took photos of my cute and clever vows for future inspiration.
Writing vows was … like a song!Cake… and rings.
LUNCH & LAUGHTER
Tables were rearranged after the ceremony, and we enjoyed a lovely lunch. Charcuterie items were meats, hard cheese, goat cheese, and breads. There was also chicken, potatoes, and green beans. Dessert included key lime pie, chocolate candies, and the wedding cake. It was chocolate on chocolate with white lace frosting around the sides. The words on top were “Tony & Angela Share the Joy”.
Folks drove from Indiana, Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida and I am deeply thankful for every one of those cherished people (dang, y’all know who you are).
PLAYLIST
Using the songs I mentioned in my vows, a tech savvy guest came up with a post-wedding playlist and the perfect gadget for playing it (thanks Terry). Among those glorious golden oldies were favorites by Elvis Presley, Three Dog Night, Sister Sledge, and ZZ Top.
CONCLUSION
To summarize, here are the lessons we learned on how to have a sweet wedding. First, make it your own. It can be as quirky or as traditional as you wish. Second, the only rule is that as long as legal parts are in place then there is no rule. Skip the parts you don’t like and add extras that you love. We chose to skip formal attire, florist, alcohol, dancing, and seating chart. We added homemade keepsakes, time for encouraging words, and a classic rock playlist.
It would be my honor and delight to tell you more… just ask! Soon I will be posting an article about (can you guess)… the honeymoon! While you’re thinking about that, please leave a sweet COMMENT so I will know that you care. THANKS SO MUCH.