WHAT’S YOUR JOY?

May 28, 2024 by angelchatt

What’s your joy? What are the numerous people, places, and things that thrill your heart? What makes your spirit want to sing?

Have you ever met people who are so positive and bubbly that it made you wish to know their secret? Did you ask them, “What’s your joy?”

April Meade shares what makes her so joyful!

With that kind of joy in mind, let’s take a closer look at a precious young lady whom I recently interviewed. Her name is April Meade and she just may be one of the most joyful people on the planet. See if you can relate to any of the things that bring her such joy. (Once you’ve read the article, please leave a JOYFUL comment, thanks.)

A PIECE OF ART & A NOTE

It all started with art and a handwritten note. April made a piece of art, a fanciful blue mirror that she named “Narcissus”, for an annual art auction called Artopia. I won the piece and was so impressed by the attached note that I wanted to meet and learn more about the artist. The sweet and sincere words said she loves to make beautiful things and is honored that a stranger likes her work. Her joyful note touched my heart, so I reached out to ask her to name a place for us to meet.

HER CHOICE OF WHERE TO MEET

She chose Honest Living Tea House and Café. Of course, this turned out to be a remarkably vibrant and joyful spot. It is full of herbs, tea, food, books, and musical instruments. There is also comfortable seating surrounded by walls full of locally made art. The lady who served us is Emily, one of the business partners. She is a big part of the joy at Honest Living.

THE MANY JOYS OF APRIL MEADE

Concerning art, April’s philosophy is to wait for the canvas to speak to her and tell her what to create. April said her next biggest joy is her best friend, Adriana.

She further states how nice it is to do gift giving and small acts of kindness for loved ones. The other things she discussed were drinks, food, her heritage, jobs, positivity, and places she loves to explore.

TRAVEL

That last one gave me the perfect opportunity to ask about travel and her current hometown of Tallahassee. She has lived in Tallahassee for six years and feels it is lively with tons of overlooked gems such as Lafayette Heritage Trail Park. She loves to visit Atlanta to see the jellyfish at the Georgia Aquarium. Her top bucket list travel spot is the Philippines, to learn more about her heritage on her mother’s side.

April says that she is both shy and an introvert. She credits her primary office job and her secondary bartending job with giving her the confidence to speak with people whom she otherwise would never have met. She believes that she is realistic, likes to comfort others, and tries to always give people the benefit of the doubt.

MESSAGE

Her message to the world is this, “Don’t take everything so personally because not everything is about you. However, be secure with who you are and always be true to yourself.”

EmbraceSouthernStates.com loved interviewing April Meade at Honest Living Tea!

DANG, Y’ALL… don’t you just love reading about folks like April? I sure do! (I can put you in touch with April if you request it.) Did this article help you reflect on what your joy is and how to increase it? Here are links to places that were mentioned. ARTOPIA (would love to see y’all at this event in June) https://bigbendcares.org/artopia/ HONEST LIVING TEA HOUSE AND CAFE https://www.facebook.com/HonestLivingLLC/ LAFAYETTE HERITAGE TRAIL PARK https://www.talgov.com/parks/parks-trail-lafayette VISIT TALLAHASSEE https://visittallahassee.com/visitor-services/ EMBRACE SOUTHERN STATES https://embracesouthernstates.com/

One more thing, be sure to watch her video here: https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ NOW, leave your comment then GO FORTH AND BE JOYFUL Y’ALL !

10 Fave Photos from 2023

December 17, 2023 by angelchatt

Another year has flown by faster than expected! That means it is time to review some favorite photos. Let’s do a countdown! See if you would rank them any differently.

These 10 photos represent time spent in Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Missouri. They also let you know that I am partial to nature, murals, food, and abandoned buildings.

# 10

Railroad tracks have always fascinated me. They make my imagination run wild with thoughts of travel and new adventures. What do tracks bring to your mind? How long has it been since you last photographed a railroad track? This photo was taken in January around 4pm about a block away from my current home in Tallahassee, Florida.

# 9

This is a very small yet stunning swamp less than a mile from my home. I had to carefully scan the area for gators! Do you have any swamps or gators near where you live? Here’s a tip; don’t wear nice shoes because there’s a strong chance you will get bogged down in mud. This shot was taken at 5pm on a lovely January day.

# 8

Since I travel around the Gulf Coast a lot, it only makes sense to include a sweet and simple beach photo. This particular beach is along Highway 90 in Gulfport, Mississippi. That happens to be the town where I grew up. The scene was captured on an early morning in April. Are you a beach person? Have you ever been to Gulfport?

# 7

Well, speaking of Gulfport, that’s where this mural is. It was created in 2021 by Tricia McAlvain in memory of the Chandeleur Lighthouse. I love how up at the top it indicates all of the towns along the Mississippi coast. It was shot on the same April morning as the previous photo. How many of those towns have you visited?

# 6

Hamilton, Missouri is THE place for avid fans of quilts. The population is under 2,000 but it is full of colorful murals like this one and is called “Quilt Town, USA.” This photo was taken at 9:33am in April. I actually love all the shadows from nearby trees. Does this bring out your desire to go make a quilt? Do you own any treasured quilts?

# 5

Abandoned structures in all sizes and conditions are interesting. I especially love tiny shacks like this one found not far from Bainbridge, Georgia. The patina of the roof and the missing windows and boards make me wonder what critters may be living inside, or underneath. What does it make you wonder? Photo taken at 11am in March.

# 4

Inside the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library in Independence, Missouri, is this huge and extraordinarily impressive mural entitled “Independence and the Opening of the West”. Artist Thomas Hart Benton painted it in the 1960’s and was an acquaintance of Truman. I took this photo in April at 1:45pm.

# 3

All of my senses tingle every time I see this photo. Again I seem to see those yellow and pink flowers as I smell the pizza and taste the wine. Life was exceptionally good that day at The Brick Oven in Hannibal, Missouri. What do you think of this photo which was taken on an April evening at about 6pm? Don’t you just love pizza?

# 2

Big Spring is located just south of Van Buren, Missouri, and is that state’s largest spring. This geological wonder is marvelous in any season. My attempt to capture this serenity was at 11am on a gorgeous April morning. Wouldn’t you love to be there and experience blissful peace? Big Spring is a true happy place and a total joy to behold.

# 1

God is a master designer, creator, and artist. His simple yet elegant lily pads have inspired countless artists, philosophers, and dreamers. On an early afternoon in March I took this perfect photo on a tiny country road near Tifton, Georgia. Do lily pads seem symbolic or at all significant to you? They make me smile!

You have seen how I ranked my top ten favorite 2023 travel photos. Would you have ranked them any differently? Let folks know which one is you very favorite and why!

For those who love EmbraceSouthernStates, remember to check out the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

And photos on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE…’cause you’re kind & you care! And, for goodness sake, if you love this stuff… then SHARE it with folks so they can love it, too. Thanks y’all.

THE GIRLS OF GEHS

October 24, 2023 by angelchatt

A FACEBOOK GROUP, YES, AND SO MUCH MORE

The GIRLS of GEHS…where do I even start? The GIRLS of GEHS is a Facebook Group which began in May 2023 to connect and reconnect former classmates of Gulfport East High School in Gulfport, Mississippi. Kudos to Debra Lee Kyzar for getting it started. The GIRLS of GEHS enjoy precious connections.

Gulfport East operated for about 11 years in the 1960’s and 70’s, in 1978 it was merged with Gulfport High. So those girls are all in their 60’s and 70’s today! Would you say that is ironic, poignant, or simply an expected result of the passage of time?

A couple of us have suggested that “G.I.R.L.S.” now means “Gliding Into Real Life Seniorhood”. So, yes, we are well aware that we are Boomers, and that the silly old clock keeps right on ticking now matter how we may try to slow it down.

CONNECTIONS ARE PRECIOUS

We are also quite determined to keep living our best lives every single day. Several of us have stopped smoking or lost some weight. Most of us make time for our hobbies and passions. The majority of us appreciate the sweetness of healthy relationships and socializing. Special emphasis placed again on that most important and precious aspect of connection and reconnection! The GIRLS (G.I.R.L.S.) of GEHS enjoy precious connections.

In September the GIRLS of GEHS met at The Chimneys Restaurant in Gulfport. The classic coastal cuisine perfectly combines with superior Southern charm amid magnificent old oaks and even includes a delightfully relaxing view of the beach. Their crab cakes are divine and their crème brulee is insanely delicious! Seeing old friends and making new ones in such pleasant company and surroundings was pure joy on many levels.

Creme brulee at The Chimneys is SO good!

The writer in me could not pass up this opportunity to ask a few questions, so I put together a very brief questionnaire for this event. Here are the summarized answers from the seven who were kind enough to answer. The uncooperative three are unidentified in this article.

CLASS OF ’75

Sara Cornell Raskett has short brownish red hair and is wearing a sleeveless black and white blouse. She loves Gulfport’s hometown atmosphere and enjoys reading and gardening. Sara likes walking around in nearby Ocean Springs and very recently experienced Gulfport’s new attraction TrainTastic, which claims to be the world’s largest model railroad museum. Her joy comes from being the best she can be and bringing happiness to others. The message Sara sends to the world is “Be the Difference.”

Nina Hearn Bartusiak keeps her long strawberry blonde hair in a braid and is wearing a black dress with dusty rose florals. She says Gulfport is friendly and has a nice beach, she would highly recommend a visit to nearby Ocean Springs to walk along Washington Avenue. Nina loves handcrafts and family trips, like the recent one to Chicago Botanic Garden. Her joy is that life and love give her so much to be happy about. Nina’s message to all is “Love people and be more patient with them, and things will get better.”

Angela Dowdy has curly black hair and is wearing a pale lavender top. Need I mention that she is me and the writer/photographer of this article? She likes Gulfport’s murals and restaurants. Her passion is writing about fabulous food, folk art, and fun on road trips in the southeastern states. Her joy comes from her faith, from being a newlywed (that’s right), and from seeing how the GIRLS of GEHS enjoy precious connections! Angela’s message is “While I’m out there seeking food, folk art, and fun… I embrace the beauty and kindness in every human being who will let me.”

CLASS OF ’76

Debra Lee Kyzar has blonde and brown hair and is wearing a long multicolor sundress. She likes Gulfport’s great climate and friendly faces. Her four-legged babies are very important to her. She recently traveled to Lookout Mountain. Her joy comes from being easy-going and friendly. Debra’s message is “Be kind.”

Patrice Lombard has short salt and pepper hair and is wearing a linen dress of cream and blue. She says Gulfport has nice people and a great beach. She loves anything outdoors and spent a recent weekend in Gulf Shores. Some of her joy comes from being blessed and having a great personality. Her sweet and powerful message is “Love everyone!”

Debi Brooks Bordelon has blonde hair and is wearing a black and gold “Saints colors” dress. She states that the best reason to visit Gulfport is because it is beautiful. Debi really enjoys taking a cruise and will gladly talk about it. On the other hand, she’s not overly interested in writing down her thoughts. Her one-word message is “Believe.”

CLASS OF ’77

Karen Rickard Lemmons has blonde hair and is wearing beige linen. When it comes to Gulfport, she simply loves everything about it. Another place she is quite fond of is Memphis, Tennessee. She loves birthday celebrations with friends and family. Her favorite things are holiday decorations, and anything related to water. She had no message but did share that her joy is “waking up every day.”

Karen (on right) and Nina (left) decide what to discuss next.

OH the memories from those Viking days!!!

——– ——– ——-

To see GIRLS of GEHS Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1552280641966315

For those who love EmbraceSouthernStates, remember to check out the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

And photos on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/

PLEASE (pretty please, with a cherry on top) LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE…’cause you’re kind & you care! And, for goodness sake, if you love this stuff… then SHARE it with folks so they can love it, too. Thanks y’all.

Best Reasons for a Solo Road Trip!

September 23, 2022 by angelchatt

Spontaneity and serendipity are just the top two of a long list of best reasons for a fabulous person (that’s YOU) to get up, get out, and take a solo road trip. If you can drive a car (or truck, SUV, whatever) then allow me to remind you of this; solo road trips are a fantastic way to recharge your energy and renew your body/mind/soul.

Oh the awesome adventure and thrills of a solo road trip!

SPONTANEITY

Guess what! Something unplanned is beckoning to you. It says “take a chance on me”… yes, just like that Abba song! Sure, there is a time and place for strategy, research, and writing down a detailed agenda. But the adrenaline rush of uninhibited freedom is hard to beat. Give yourself that gift of freedom. Get wild, get carefree, and go see what is waiting for you.

Unique beauty waits around every corner, let IT find YOU !

SERENDIPITY

While basking in the glow of road trip freedom, you will be amazed how many unexpected and happy little moments pop up to thrill you. Some of the best for me have included a covered bridge, a tiny museum, a waterfall, several vibrant murals, and numerous farmer’s markets with huge assortments of fruits and vegetables. What serendipity have you encountered?

Stop at every farmer’s market… if it makes YOU happy!!

AUTONOMY

Make your own choices about, well, everything. Wear jeans that make you happy or old t-shirts that make you smile. Pack any amount of luggage and be thrilled that you are not going through an airport. Stop as often as you like for a stretch, a photo op, a bathroom break…can’t do THAT when others are in your car and in a hurry. Heck, stop to hug a tree or visit a park. Your trip, your choice, your adventure, your decision!

AUTHENTICITY

Do you remember the real you who was happy, carefree, and fun-loving? Now is a fine time to reconnect with that amazing person. Be true to you and some of those playful instincts. Make silly faces, sing along loudly to your favorite tunes, talk to yourself out loud. When you stop for a bite, hold the door open for a stranger or pay someone a sincere compliment. All these simple actions will remind you that life is sweet and joyful, and so are you.

MINDFULNESS

Stop and take in the fresh air. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. Appreciate the scenic beauty surrounding you as you pay attention to your body and all your senses. As you explore an area that is new to you, allow your curiosity and your kindness to thrive. Ask locals to suggest best restaurants or attractions. Write your thoughts in a travel journal. Take tons of photos.

Yes, I’m saying it…”Stop & smell the roses.”

JOY

Making marvelous memories on a solo road trip is priceless. Remember, along with those photos and journal entries, to also bring home at least a couple of souvenirs. Perhaps a jar of local preserves or a piece of folk art would suit you. Dang, if you can afford it, you’ve got room to fill up your vehicle with all the key chains, refrigerator magnets, and cookbooks that you can find. You have the freedom to pick clever and captivating items that will stir those wonderful memories and bring you deep joy.

Folk art mugs found in North Carolina, too cute!!

—___—___—___—___—___—___—___

Goodness, all this talk about road trips has me ready to go. What do you think are the best reasons to take a solo road trip? Chances are I will, indeed, be on a solo road trip in the Southeastern USA before you can say “well y’all just butter my butt and call me a biscuit” !!! How long has it been since you heard that one? Anyway…dang, y’all… send me a cute little comment to say how you liked this article! Here’s the links to my social media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-l-dowdy-22a2a4196/

Signing off for September, this is Angela… reminding you to Embrace Southern States…and embrace lots of folks that you love!

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

Vote for Your Favorite Photo!

December 29, 2021 by angelchatt

In 2021 I traveled through seven southern states and took hundreds of photos. I chose two from each state to share with you. Now I’m asking you to consider each one carefully, then vote for your favorite by leaving a Comment.

Narrowing them down to only 14 was quite difficult, yet a very enjoyable trip down memory lane. Every state has tons of beauty and vibrant colors. Were you able to get out and embrace any great spots in the past year?

If you ever want suggestions about any of these areas, I will be delighted to share my thoughts. Travelers should encourage one another to explore all the precious places that surround us.

Here are my photos, alphabetically by state.

ALABAMA

Fields of lavender were ready for harvest in the aptly named town of Harvest, Alabama. Lavender is said to represent silence and calmness, while the pretty purple color is often associated with royalty. I walked though this lovely area in silence and calmness, feeling like royalty as I took in all the allure of these exquisite flowers. https://www.facebook.com/Lavenderwynde

Early one morning I happened upon an eerie and mysterious site full of ruins in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Pieces of columns and wall took me by surprise, and I was completely fascinated. This had once been a grand building and had burned down in 1923.

FLORIDA

Folks who love hunting for antiques need to visit the small town of Havana, Florida. This is one of several nice murals in a setting of multiple antique shops and quaint cafes. Havana was once known for growing shade tobacco. A few old tobacco barns still exist and there is even a small museum dedicated to the subject.

Bradley’s Country Store in Tallahassee, Florida began in 1927. They make delicious sausage and host an annual fun day that includes music, art, and lots of activities. That is where I took this shot of horse drawn carriages by a scenic lakeside.

GEORGIA

Caught this fabulous shot at my favorite time of day (early morning) in Rome, Georgia. I love misty mountains, rain, and cemeteries…was thrilled to see them all in this photo. If you love old cemeteries, you must visit Myrtle Hill which has six terraces and over 30 tree varieties and is a gorgeous (and possibly haunted) destination.

The elegant fountain in Forsyth Park is a most picturesque place in Savannah, Georgia. It was built in 1858 and is surrounded by oaks, magnolias, and just about more park benches than you could count. Can you guess why the water is temporarily turned green every March?

MISSISSIPPI

In Columbus, Mississippi I was honored to interview a most unique and totally unforgettable character. Her name is Edwina Williams, but everyone knows her as “Mother Goose”. For over 30 years she has captured the hearts and imaginations of folks through her songs, stories, and her advocacy for literacy. People like her make life so special. For more info: https://www.columbusmainstreet.com/staff/mother-goose-little-goose/

In Tupelo, Mississippi I sloshed through snow to share a private moment with Elvis…okay, fine, with this STATUE of Elvis! Even though the snow had closed down nearly everything, I enjoyed taking photos of many Elvis-related items and his birthplace. https://www.tupelo.net/

NORTH CAROLINA

Fayetteville, North Carolina is fortunate to have Cape Fear Botanical Garden. If you love flowers, you could spend many happy hours wandering their 80 acres. It includes a river bluff, an old farmhouse, and a lake. There are so many photo ops! The daylily section is a true spectacle of color from every angle. For more info https://www.capefearbg.org/ .

Just off Interstate 95 in Hope Mills, North Carolina you can find Dirtbag Ales. A group of friends began brewing beer, then added food. They kept growing this one-of-a-kind spot that now includes playground, dog park, music, and farmer’s market. The place and the beer are simply beyond awesome. https://www.dirtbagales.com/

SOUTH CAROLINA

Florence, South Carolina became one of my favorite places in 2021. There you can find the Pee Dee State Farmers Market and get up close and personal with fresh produce, plants, honey, and homemade items. These plums were irresistibly juicy and satisfying. I ate several of them while driving back to my home state. https://agriculture.sc.gov/divisions/agency-operations/state-farmers-markets/pee-dee-state-farmers-market/

In the historic district of downtown Florence sits Top Hat Special-Teas, a pretty pink place where Laurie is the tea queen! It is tearoom, museum, and educational space combined to thrill and tickle the taste buds. View these brewing accessories and enjoy tea, quiche, and scones. https://www.facebook.com/tophatspecialteas .

TENNESSEE

Apple Valley Orchard in Cleveland, Tennessee is where I interviewed the owner of this family apple business and got this practically perfect picture of little green apples still growing on the trees. Happy little apples on happy little trees, I’m sure. https://applevalleyorchard.com/ .

These cute colors prove that there is art in architecture! Fayetteville, Tennessee is full of fantastic buildings with tons of history. Many of them are also full of antiques and colorful characters. https://www.fayettevilletn.com/tourism.php .

Conclusion

Thanks for checking out these photos. They were just a small sample of what I discovered on my 2021 travels as I sought to Embrace Southern States!!! Now, it is time for you to leave a nice Comment to VOTE for your favorite. Please share your thoughts and we can all decide the winners… together.

Remember to SHARE this article with your friends and let them know how to find Embrace Southern States. Instagram go to https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ or if you prefer Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates .

Grateful Strife of Goat Life

August 18, 2021 by angelchatt

Perfectly clean white goats dance and play as soft southern winds kiss the morning sunshine. The world is right both day and night, goats never get sick, and they never fight. The goat farmer sits leisurely with nothing to do, fairies and pixies magically do everything!

WRONG! Wake up, because you are obviously dreaming! Goat life involves grateful strife.

The TRUTH is that goat farming, milking, and making soft goat cheese is hard work. The farmer and his wife must get up at the crack of dawn. They must constantly be cleaning the living space, providing fresh food and fresh water, checking for problems with hooves and horns, and for any indication of bloating or parasites.

Additionally, they must keep the area free from predators. The farmer, family, and any staff must know when and how to breed and milk the goats. They must maintain the creamery and follow exacting procedures for refrigeration and cheese making. There must be a reliable system in place for packaging and marketing the finished product. They will often work late into the night, fall into bed exhausted, and repeat the entire process day after day.

Nick & Allison Murray and their children Audrey and Nate.

What type of people would purposely choose this grateful strife of goat life? Nick and Allison Murray at Grateful Hill Farm in Pavo, Georgia have the answer. So, he was a corporate insurance man who was seemingly stuck on the hamster wheel just a few years ago. His wife was an English teacher. They desired to ditch the rat race and find a better path for their family. Here are excerpts from my recent interview with Nick.

Milking six goats at the time is a full time job.

What can you tell me about your work?

Grateful Hill Farm is 14 acres of passion, positivity, and productivity. We raise the Saanen breed of goats, milk them, and make cheese from the milk. The farm allows us to enjoy nature while we work together as a family to create several varieties of our tasty product.

Cheese making is part art and part science.

How many animals do you have?

There are 22 milking goats in the herd, plus another 19 kids not yet of milking age. To help protect them from predators like coyotes and foxes, we also have two adorable llamas and two beautiful Doberman Pinschers. Plus, a cat or two just for the heck of it.

Can you educate me a bit about goat cheese?

Soft fresh goat cheese is called chevre (pronounced “shev”). We follow a primal ancient process that results in better flavor than most modern offerings. Using natural animal rennet, we hand craft artisanal cheese that is rich in protein, easily digestible, and delicious.

“Orange Blossom Special” , “Farmgirl Dip” , & “Southern Hospitality” ! Oh my!

Is sustainability a factor at your farm?

Absolutely. I am a natural minded businessman. I focus on quality work and not cutting corners. It is so important that I insist that we use natural resources and natural supplements as much as possible. The indigenous grass, vines, weeds, and berries that the goats browse upon add unique flavor and quality to the cheese. Allison and I love teaching our children to take care of the land and to appreciate the value of purposeful work. I pray that they will be able to pass that knowledge forward to future generations.

Pretty as a picture and go good for you! Soft fresh goat cheese!

{ Grateful Hill Farm produces four varieties of chevre plus a feta now and then. The four flavors are Cotton Cloud, Orange Blossom Special, Farmgirl Dip, and this writer’s favorite one is called Southern Hospitality and has sweetened pineapple and pecans. Dang y’all ! So delicious. I also recommend adding just a tiny amount of honey and cinnamon to any of the flavors for a total bite of bliss. You will love it! Chevre is so healthy and gluten-free. }

Would you call your goat life something of a love story?

Yes. It is hard work that is rewarding and remarkably precious to us. We learn new things every day. We continue to grow closer to God and to each other. This path is teaching us to communicate better and to love the land, the animals, and each other noticeably more deeply.

What activities do you like for fun or creativity?

Thinking and planning early each morning at my desk sparks my creativity. Running is something I find meditative. It is good for my body and improves my mood. The most fun I ever had was attending the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. I’ve also been to the Greek Island of Mykonos. My bucket list item is to someday take a family vacation to the Italian Alps. We are blessed to have lots of extended family close by, so time with them is lots of fun.

Do you have a message for the world?

Yes, and this is simple yet extremely important. Husbands and fathers should strive toward making their family relationships the best possible.

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Dang, y’all… Nick Murray and his family are beautiful on many levels! It was a true joy to visit with them and get to know more about chevre. He would be happy to answer your questions, if you are considering the grateful strife of goat life for yourself. If you would like find out more, please see their website https://www.gratefulhillfarm.com/ .

See my Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ and for Grateful Hill Farm Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gratefulhillfarm/