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!!
+++*** +++*** +++*** +++***
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.
What makes Charleston, South Carolina extraordinary? Is it the beauty, food, art, people… or the inexplicable uniqueness? Let’s consider these 17 photosas we further explore the JOY of Charleston.
Dang, y’all… by now you know how deeply I LOVE all things Southern. This photo of Old South Carriage Company salutes a family-owned business that is an example of all the charm, excellence, and joy in Charleston.
Southern excellence and joy on many levels.
BEAUTY
Aesthetically speaking, beauty is a matter of taste or opinion. Which of these pieces of architecture speak to YOUR sense of style? The Primrose house was built in 1817 in the Regency style. I adore the cheery yellow color and the curved piazza. I don’t know the name of the pink building but find the entablature captivating. The U.S. Custom House was under construction during the Civil War and finally completed in 1879. Fluted Corinthian columns add a special dignity, don’t you think?
The Primrose House Pink … and captivating ! Oh, those fluted Corinthian columns!!
FOOD
While Charleston is known for shrimp and grits, crab cakes and rice, and even pimiento cheese, I want to highlight other delights that I found fascinating. A true “First” for me was the delicious Banana Puddin’ popsicle by King of Pops, a proudly Southern company! Thanks to Ronnie who works for Bike Taxi for introducing me to this awesome treat. Wine and cheese in the early evening is hard to beat, olives are optional. Notice the joggling board in the background, that’s another true Southern classic! A colorful display of French macarons is irresistible. Don’t you love that sweet meringue-based confection?
Banana Puddin’ popsicle… OH YUM !! Wine & cheese in a courtyard, plus a joggling board! Colorful macarons make choosing so difficult!
ART
So, this photo of paintings for sale at the City Market is what most folks typically think of when you mention art. But I sometimes think of sculpture like this sweet butterfly. And were you aware that I am a Social Butterfly? Love the mural at Uptown Social!
Lots of paintings for sale at City Market. Butterfly sculpture outside the Aquarium. At Uptown Social, proof that I AM a Social Butterfly !
PEOPLE
The joyful lady in the Carifest parade left a lasting impression even though I never heard her name. Wylie Cauthen is the sweetest, coolest, funniest guy ever, and a great Concierge at the Fulton Lane Inn. This inspiring threesome represents friendliness, independence, and strength. Self-published author Paul Attaway, bookstore owner Polly Buxton, and (me) the freelance writer Angela L. Dowdy.
Love her joyful smile! Love his helpfulness and wicked sense of humor! Such a joy to meet inspiring people.
INEXPLICABLE UNIQUENESS
While in Charleston I took over 500 photos! These last four are like Charleston; hard to categorize or put into words yet completely unforgettable and joyful. Each one has a beautiful and historical story that I will gladly share IF YOU ask me!
The ADVENTURE awaits at Charles Towne Landing! Climb aboard for a 17th-century history lesson. Or learn how Catfish Row inspired George Gershwin in the 1930’s.
This part of the Charleston adventure began in 1670. This location now part of a musical, do YOU know which one?
Celebrating much more modern themes, I was a photographer at a Pride pool party at the Ryder hotel. I also stopped to appreciate a new sculpture of a joyful African-American girl named Lilly.
Ask me why THIS was an unexpected experience! Lilly expresses the joy and wonder that I felt in Charleston!
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!
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 !!
