exuberant Archives - Embrace Southern States

IN THE SPIRIT OF THANKSGIVING

November 27, 2024 by angelchatt

Americans typically set aside the fourth Thursday in November to gather around an abundant meal and offer expressions of gratitude. As a person of faith, I am deeply grateful for the freedom to believe in the Higher Power of my choice. To that Heavenly Creator I give thanks for the multitude of things which bring me joy. I also give thanks that atheists, skeptics, and other nonbelievers can choose to thank fate or the Universe. Wouldn’t the world be such a nicer place if we could all live each day in the spirit of Thanksgiving?

MUSINGS

Here are my meandering musings about things for which I am most thankful. Please reflect on these and let me know the ones that have meaning to you.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I appreciate the beauty and vibrant colors of animals, art, and nature. I enjoy a sense of wonder in a bookstore and in a coffee shop. I am thankful for eyeglasses, eye doctors, good lighting, and comfortable reading spots.

Love finding great COFFEE SHOPS when on road trips.

WORDS

Are you a logophile… a lover of words? I certainly am. I love well-written stories and meaningful conversations. Having the courage to use words to say what I think seems to be equally important with having the conviction to stand my ground after sharing those words.

Two of my favorite words are lagniappe and serendipity. They both carry the idea of a delightful surprise. Life, on its best days, IS a delightful surprise!

PONDER

Have you ever taken a break from the hectic pace of life to peacefully ponder the awesomeness of these things: creativity, kindness, laughter, mindfulness, prayer, and wisdom? They are priceless on so many levels.

Travel …ponder this with me for a moment… can take multiple forms. My favorite includes long road trips in my own vehicle. It also includes making time for writing and photography. These are precious gifts that I give to myself and to those who can appreciate my efforts.

SENSES

SOUNDS: Think about the difference between a babbling brook and the indescribable rushing and roaring of a waterfall. Or that mixture of noises in the background as you watch and cheer for your favorite football team. Or simply being able to adjust the TV volume to your personal level of comfort as you watch a movie. Of course, let’s not forget music!

SIGHTS: My favorites include watching a perfect sunrise, enjoying the beauty of lakes and mountains, and raindrops that seem to sparkle and dance upon green leaves.

What a way to start a day… with a SUNRISE, joy and hope!

TOUCH/FEEL: Compare the softness of cat fur to the roughness of chopped logs. Or the coldness of freezing rain to the warmth of a crackling fire.

TASTE and SMELL: These are all tied up together when it comes to one of my all-time favorite things… food and beverages! Anything baking in an oven, whether it be pizza or cookies or cinnamon rolls, gets me excited. To list every food that I love would take years, so let me highlight the ones that top the list.

Both Barq’s & Abita ROOT BEER had Southern roots!

Beverages include coffee, sweet tea, homemade smoothies, root beer, and Jack Daniel’s. Foods include bacon, guacamole, and jambalaya. And EVERY dessert, especially beignets, bread pudding, blackberry cobbler, and chocolate.

DESSERTS are truly a party for all the senses.

PEOPLE

Recently I read that there are over a dozen levels of personal relationships. I prefer to think of and be thankful for these four levels: online only, casual acquaintances, family, and chosen family.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I admit that I appreciate the online people who come across as positive, helpful, and open-minded. Casual acquaintances are good to socialize with occasionally if they seem to be authentic.

My gratitude runs deep toward relatives who are kind and decent. My mother, husband, and son are more precious to me than silver and gold or a room full of puppies. There are a few cousins with whom I try to stay in touch.

Now chosen family includes those dear and darling friends that I completely love, respect, and trust. Some I’ve known for decades and others just for a few years. These cherished ones accept me, love me, laugh with me, and cry with me. They would not be flustered if I called or dropped by without notice. We can discuss anything under the sun and agree to disagree on a few subjects. I am tremendously thankful for my chosen family.

IT’S YOUR TURN

Rambling on as I tend to do, I have mentioned over seventy (yes, 70) things to be thankful for in life. Now it is your turn to LEAVE A COMMENT here on my website. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, share your thoughts on this article and be sure to share some specific things that you are giving thanks for today!

Dang y’all … being thankful is a CHOICE… a wise and healthy choice! I genuinely care about you and give thanks for you!

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LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE… your kindness WILL fill my heart with JOY !!!

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Dang, y’all... JOY & THANKS! And Happy Thanksgiving from Florida !!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING from FLORIDA. Bye y’all.

DESSERTS ACROSS THE SOUTH

April 26, 2024 by angelchatt

Delicious desserts abound all across the southeastern United States. Today I invite you to come along with me as we consider a sampling of the most popular and luscious desserts. We will go alphabetically through the 13 states covered by Embrace Southern States. Are your taste buds ready for this totally tempting tour of desserts across the South?

No mud was disturbed and no possums were harmed in the creation of this post. Dang, y’all, let us know by your Comment when you figure out what this means! Here we go!

ALABAMA

The general consensus is that Alabama’s most iconic dessert is the Lane cake. The 22 ingredients include bourbon, coconut, raisins, and pecans. This writer has never had the patience to actually make one from scratch, but certainly loves the taste.

Another favorite is the humble pound cake. While it may appear plain, pound cake is easy to make and is moist and flavorful.

I discovered a new favorite in Florence, Alabama at the Odette restaurant https://www.odettealabama.com/. It is a strawberry-rhubarb cobbler with almond-oat crumble and topped with caramelized honey ice cream.

Strawberry-Rhubarb Cobbler, deliciously different!

ARKANSAS

Would you try Possum pie? It does not contain possum, but does have a creamy filling, chocolate, and whipped cream. This icebox pie is perfect for a scorching summer day.

The other top favorites in Arkansas are the super sweet pecan pie and the summer favorite watermelon pops.

FLORIDA

Key lime pie is number one in Florida, just ask anyone. But don’t ask them to explain how it is both tart and sweet.

Two of the most delightful contenders for second place are strawberry shortcake and, because Florida is known for oranges, orange crunch cake.

GEORGIA

One nickname for Georgia is “The Peach State” so perhaps it is only fitting that the favorite dessert is peach cobbler. The gooey goodness is best served hot with the option of an ice cream topping.

Another favorite is peanut butter pie.

I found a new favorite in Savannah, Georgia at Lizzy’s Burger Bar https://www.lizzysgrill.com/ . It is a boozy caramel milkshake spiked with Savannah’s own Ghost Coast Bourbon. Oh, so good.

KENTUCKY

The first choice in Kentucky is bourbon balls. These boozy little morsels are coated with semisweet chocolate.

Second place goes to blackberry cobbler and third place goes to fudge. This makes me want to spend more time in Kentucky.

LOUISIANA

Just saying the word beignet makes me happy. Knowing that these beloved little powdered doughnuts are the favorite in Louisiana… well, I’m ready to meet you at Café du Monde https://shop.cafedumonde.com/ anytime you’re buying!

The other two top desserts, bananas Foster and pralines, are also yummy beyond words.

MISSISSIPPI

The top two desserts across the South noted here are bread pudding and Mississippi mud pie. “Mud” in this case is a chocolate filling said to resemble mud by the banks of the Mississippi river.

Two other treats I enjoy are the sweet potato muffins from https://www.coffeehouseon5th.com/ Coffee House on 5^th in Columbus and the crème brulee from The Chimneys in Gulfport https://www.chimneysrestaurant.com/ .

MISSOURI

The “Show Me” state loves cake and ice cream. Gooey butter cake comes in first and is closely followed by coconut cake.

The history of the ice cream “cornucopia” or cone may have several versions, but we know it took on a starring role in the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. The ice cream cone never goes out of style, especially in Missouri.

NORTH CAROLINA

Sonker is comparable to cobbler and is so loved in Surry County, North Carolina that they celebrate a sonker festival every October.

Red velvet cake is another favorite that has several odd stories about how and why it got the red color and why it should be one of the desserts across the South.

A most tasty treat I enjoyed at Mash House in Fayetteville, North Carolina https://www.themashhouse.com/ is a butterscotch brownie with spiced rum caramel topped with coffee ice cream, yum.

SOUTH CAROLINA

There are too many choices with no clear favorite here. Top contenders include the Huguenot Torte (which is not really a torte) , benne wafers (made with sesame seeds), and sweet potato pie.

The best sweet treats I had on my most recent visit to Charleston https://lemacaron-us.com/locations/charleston/ were macarons from Le Macaron French Pastries on Meeting Street.

A macaron is light, colorful, and delicious.

TENNESSEE

Classic banana pudding is a favorite in “The Volunteer State” that looks especially decadent when the peaks of fluffy meringue are slightly toasted.

Nashville’s Standard Candy Company created the Goo Goo Cluster back in 1912. It was the first combination candy bar which includes caramel, marshmallow, peanuts, and milk chocolate https://googoo.com/ .

Chattanooga Bakery really started something “outta-this-world” when they created Moon Pie back in 1917. This marshmallow marvel still thrills dessert lovers today https://moonpie.com/about .

VIRGINIA

The top two preferred desserts of Virginia are said to be chess pie and funnel cakes.

I must let you know about affogato. Have you ever heard of it? https://geraldsicecream.com/ Gerald’s Ice Cream in Virginia Beach has perfected the Italian treat by pouring espresso over ice cream and a very precisely prepared whipped cream. This sensory stimulation is sweet satisfaction.

Affogato: ice cream (or gelato) “drowned” in espresso!

WEST VIRGINIA

According to several sources, the top two desserts in West Virginia are molasses cookies and apple spice cake.

Another favorite is the banana split. Rumor has it that you can order one in the town of Fairmont that weighs in at nine pounds. Get several friends to help you with that one!

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So, there you have it! We have delved into the 13 southeastern states and uncovered a total of 41 unique and not-to-be-missed desserts across the South! Now I am so hungry!

PLEASE COMMENT ABOUT YOUR FAVORITES AND WHICH ONES YOU WISH TO TRY! Also, share this article with every dessert lover you know. They will thank you for it.

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Share Your Gratefulness

November 20, 2020 by angelchatt

To be GRATEFUL means deeply thankful or appreciative of any kindness or benefits. During this season of Thanksgiving I simply want to share with you, my wonderful readers, some heartfelt musings on choosing to be grateful.

I choose to start and end each day with a prayer of gratitude to my Creator who extends mercy and grace to me. I choose to follow that example by extending my own version of compassion and courtesy to others. I also choose to encourage everyone to think positive.

Most people’s GRATEFUL list would likely include family, health, food, and money. Yes, those are great, but here are a few additional things to include. I am grateful that I have a comfortable bed with fluffy pillows and warm covers. I am grateful that I have a pleasant home where I can take a refreshing shower at any time. I have the freedom to play with my pets, drive my car, visit my friends, and enjoy my hobbies.

Today I choose to be grateful that I am not in a hospital or in a prison, then I say a quick prayer those who are. I choose to be grateful that I am not living on the streets or in a domestic abuse situation, again pausing to think of those who are. I choose to see the beauty in my surroundings.

The world can seem so negative. People spew out words of meanness, hatred, or complaint much too casually. I am grateful to those who choose to take the more hopeful and cheerful tone. They speak in sweetness and light which renews my faith in humankind. I celebrate the happy people who keep a song in their heart, a kind word on their lips, and an optimistic attitude.

I also celebrate the fact that you and can agree to disagree on issues. We can have differing opinions yet can be mature enough to accept and appreciate each other. Today I am grateful that I live in Florida, have many special loved ones, and can laugh out loud at whatever seems funny.

One of my many hobbies that brings me joy.

It is my deepest hope that you have many reasons to be grateful today. I would love to hear from you. Please take a moment to share some of your gratefulness. Thank you.

Meet Pete at the Crum Box Gastgarden

November 11, 2020November 11, 2020 by angelchatt

Pete Evarts has lived in Tallahassee for 26 years and for over 6 of those years he has run the most recognizable eating establishment in town.

Pete hopes YOU will visit the Crum Box Gastgarden.

What can you tell me about your work?

Located in the Railroad Square Art District at 602 Industrial Drive, you can’t miss my place. There’s a red caboose, a teal building with a red door, and a spacious outdoor seating area that includes a stage for live events. I am pretty much a one-man show here, except for occasional special performances of comedy or music. I came up with the name Crum Box Gastgarden because “crummy” is slang for caboose and “gastgarden” is a play on gastric having to do with the stomach.

What are your specialties?

Fans love the “punk and gut” sausage and bread. The sausage is artisanal, and I love to create exciting new variety and flavor combos. I make a homemade vegan chili from scratch and got the recipe from someone very close to me. Other delicious favorites include pulled pork, macaroni and cheese, and cucumber salad. To me, food is an art…and my food business is in an art district. I love to cook and to meet my customers. Many of them become my friends.

How do you feel about Tallahassee?

This is a beautiful area with lots of great food and great art. What I like the most is that I get to meet so many people and enjoy a deep sense of community.

What are some places you’ve been or hope to visit?

Travel is something I love. I’ve enjoyed travels in Ireland where driving is different yet still fun, and in several European countries. At the top of my current bucket list would have to be Canada and Iceland.

What are your passions or hobbies?

I am a pretty simple man. When I am at work, I like to mingle with my customers, entertain them a bit, and make sure they are happy. When I’m not at work, I enjoy yard work, taking long drives, and spending lots of time with my loved ones.

What makes you an exuberant person?

I am an incredibly positive person. I choose to believe than many more positive things will happen once we all figure out the “new normal”. I like to think that people who come to eat at the Crum Box Gastgarden will get to know me and think of me as a beacon of positivity.

The red caboose in Railroad Square Art District.

What is your message to the world?

This is so remarkably simple and may sound too basic or fundamental, but here is my message, “Be kind to each other!”

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Dang y’all, Pete is awesome, He works hard, creates wonderful food, and maintains such a positive outlook on life. He is great at multitasking while also carrying on a fun conversation. I highly recommend getting to know him and enjoying a tasty meal at the Crum Box Gastgarden. https://www.facebook.com/thecrumbox/

Perhaps you would kindly leave your positive comment. Thank you.

Artists Helping Artists: Pop-Up Plans

November 11, 2020November 4, 2020 by angelchatt

Ann Kozeliski started AHA two years ago.

ART is thriving in the Tallahassee, Florida area. A bit of credit can go to Ann Kozeliski who is the founder/creator/idea person of a fabulous organization called Artists Helping Artists, or AHA. She informs readers, “It began as its name implies. An artist needed help and artists came together to meet the need. That was two years ago and AHA continues to provide opportunities for artists to promote and sell their work. AHA is looking forward to growing, providing programming collaborating with local organizations, and knowing the world is a much better place with Art in it.”

Diane Dyal knows AHA helps our community.

AHA member Diane Beauvais Dyal is happy to be a part of the group. She shares, “I have met so many new friends that have similar art related interests. The tasks I do for the organization give me a sense of purpose keeping me busy doing something productive and worthwhile. I believe it helps me create things I might not create ordinarily. AHA is good for the community because it gets the artists out there helping do things that benefit the community directly or indirectly. Right now, I am doing Christmas ornaments for Havana Main Street and it benefits me as an artist as well as Havana. A win-win!”

Pop-Up in Havana, FL on Nov 14 & Dec 12.

AHA member Joy Green is super excited to tell everyone about two big upcoming events for AHA. She explains, “Artists Helping Artists is a fairly new group of Tallahassee area artists. Its goal is just as it sounds: positive events, opportunities and possibilities for artists and the arts in this area. The Pop-Up Gallery is one such event. It will be in Havana at the Paint Dog Gallery on Saturday, November 14, 10-5. We have a total of 13 vendors and 11 exhibitors for this show. Paintings, mixed media, graphics, cards, prints, jewelry, turned wood, wood utensils, Christmas ornaments and signs, handbags and totes, straw basket art, pottery, and glass, Come and shop for the holidays! Paint Dog Gallery, 307 N. Main Street, Havana, Florida. We plan a second event, an encore, December 12, same location and times.”

AHA member Angela Dowdy (author of this article) adds this thought, “Artists Helping Artists is something every local artist can appreciate. There is such a positive energy when creative minds meet and share ideas. Whether young or old, whether novice or pro, we want to spread the love of vibrant and joyful art throughout our community and beyond.”

Vibrant ART for yourself or a loved one.

https://www.ahatallahassee.com/ https://www.facebook.com/AHATallahassee

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Dang y’all, I sure hope that everyone within driving distance of Tallahassee and Havana will plan to come help us CELEBRATE ART . Come join us as we show appreciation and support for AHA at the Pop-Up Gallery on November 14^th and December 12^th. What a perfect time to find that special gift for yourself or a loved one. What a perfect way to experience the beauty and joy of art.

Have You Met Corrinne Vernick Yet?

October 27, 2020 by angelchatt

She prefers being called Corrie and likes her coffee with cream and sugar. She is a single mom who is successfully raising a teenage son, working a full-time job, plus a good side job, and still makes time for some fascinating passions and hobbies.

What can you tell us about your work?

In my official capacity as Community Standards Coordinator for a homeowner’s association, I help enforce rules and protect property values and aesthetics. In my side job as Independent Senior Beauty Consultant for Mary Kay, I help empower people to care for their skin and earn extra income.

I love meeting people and doing what makes me happy!

What are your greatest strengths?

I love meeting new people and treating each one with transparency, kindness, and respect. I am very resilient while helping others to gain confidence. By increased networking and stepping out of my comfort zone I’ve made many wonderful new friends.

What are your thoughts on travel?

Wisconsin is where I grew up and would love to revisit one day. I recently visited Providence Canyon State Park in Lumpkin, Georgia. That is a fun and absolutely gorgeous place. Alaska is a place that seems to be calling me to come see it for the first time. Tallahassee has great nature trails and hidden gems like Lichgate or Lafayette Park. Plus, it is near the coast and who doesn’t need a little beach therapy now and then? A walk in the woods or some sitting by the sea helps charge my creative batteries.

What hobbies and passions do you enjoy?

My teenage son wants to become a marine biologist and I share his love for reading and science. My interests run from bartending to histology to tattoos. I like classic rock of the 70’s and also 90’s rock. I love abstract art and one of my favorite foods is eggplant. I enjoy painting old, discarded flowerpots, and breathing new life into them. Volunteer work with local animal rescue groups is the other thing that I find deeply rewarding.

I find the silver lining in any situation!

What makes you an exuberant person?

Coffee first, please! Then paying attention to details, having adventures, and learning new things. I can find the smallest silver lining in any situation and that allows me to make the best from all kinds of circumstances.

Do you have a message to share with the world?

Treat others as you wish to be treated and make the world a better place. Just be yourself. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for doing what makes you happy!

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Dang y’all! Corrie seems to be an unstoppable force, full of vim and vigor. She can brighten anyone’s day with her sweet personality and beautiful smile.

Please remember to use Contact or Comments to leave your kind thoughts, thanks. And, hey, take a minute to spread the good word about EmbraceSouthernStates!!!

Meet Melvin Beal: On TV and Talent

October 15, 2020 by angelchatt

Some people are good at speaking in person. Others prefer to speak behind a microphone or a computer. Some people are good at being charming, funny, or heartfelt. Others make it their mission to broadcast a clear and direct message. Melvin Beal does all these things, and does them tremendously well. He uses his time and his talents to share stories of hope that could transform the world.

Could you tell me a little about your job?

My job is to make sure people in our area can view programs on WVUP-TV. I make decisions about the quality of program content that appears on our channel, which is an affiliate of the Christian Television Network. I have a talent for expanding, enhancing, and exposing God’s kingdom through excellent content.

Would you share a bit about your background?

A proud Tallahassee native, I grew up three blocks from FAMU. I worked in both radio and TV while at FAMU majoring in broadcast journalism. I worked in Tampa for some years. Coming back home really made me understand how deeply I love and appreciate Tallahassee.

What do you enjoy most about Tallahassee?

We have great educational institutions with excellent sports. There are many cultural and historical sites, such as the Museum of Florida History. We have some of the most beautiful gardens and parks in the world. Cascades Park is the newest example. There is also a marvelous diversity among our people.

What travel destinations stand out to you?

Toronto, Canada, is one of the cleanest cities I ever visited. A place that I would love to visit in the future is Alaska.

What is the most fun thing you ever did?

Broadcasting college football games as a play-by-play announcer on ESPN was an incredibly fun and exciting opportunity that I will always cherish.

What passions and hobbies are important to you?

I enjoy taking daily two-mile walks throughout my community. I spark my creativity through prayer and meditation. I have talent in website design and content. Food and music both play a big role in my life. But my deepest passion is being a people person.

Do you think you are a great people person?

Absolutely, I am! My mom, who was my hero, taught me to always acknowledge and speak to people. Sharing conversation with others means connecting. Connecting leads to gaining knowledge. I believe it is vital to discuss all aspects of an issue with transparency and honesty. That leads to any needed resolutions and better understanding. My biggest strength is meeting people and engaging them in meaningful conversations.

What makes you an exuberant person?

My joy is anchored in my solid conviction that there is nothing too hard for God.

Do you have a message to share with the world?

Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all of his righteousness.

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Melvin is friendly, funny, and fascinating. He really can spend hours swapping stories with a stranger. Yet, dang y’all, the person walks away feeling like an abundantly blessed and deeply moved friend.

I hope YOU will take a moment to share your comment about this article, thank you.