Florida

IN THE SPIRIT OF THANKSGIVING

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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.

So thankful for the beauty of NATURE !

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.

PHOTOS & reflections & memories.

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!

MUSIC is mood lifting.

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.

Treasure your times with 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.

ROAD TRIPS, PECANS, & A NEW BOOK!

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The great American road trip celebrates the joy of travel. Stephanie Stuckey and I met up on two recent road trips to talk about Stuckey’s famous Pecan Log Rolls and her inspiring new book “UnStuck: Rebirth of an American Icon.”

Back in the 1930’s her grandfather began the Stuckey’s business with the idea that every traveler is a friend. Stephanie is now Chair of the company and champions that idea and the brand with grit, grace, and goodness. Road trips, pecans, and a new book … all wonderful ways to embrace life!

Natural Georgia, so calming!

GEORGIA ROOTS & ROAD TRIPS

Stuckey’s was founded in Eastman, Georgia, where Stephanie and I both had family roots and fond childhood memories. Some of those memories included picking and shelling pecans to put into all sorts of delicious, sweet treats. On a recent Georgia road trip, I stopped often to photo beautiful scenes of meadows full of colorful flowers. I meandered all along U.S. Highway 221 and stopped to see the Stuckey’s Candy Plant in Wrens, Georgia.

Can’t you just taste THIS right now? So good!

ON A ROLL … OF PECANS

At the Candy Plant in Wrens, you will find plenty of Stuckey’s Original Pecan Log Rolls. The nougat center is mixed with maraschino cherries, dipped in buttery caramel, then hand-rolled in pieces of Georgia pecans. Georgia has consistently been among the top four growers of pecans for about twenty years. Stuckey’s also makes several varieties of pralines, brittle, and chocolate pecans. They are available in boxes, bags, or gift tins.

Sunrise in Augusta, GA on my way to meet Stephanie!

EXCITING AUGUSTA & NEW BOOK

Augusta is called the Garden City of the South and is best known for the Master’s Golf Tournament and being the birthplace of singer James Brown. This  city is full of charm, history, museums, fountains, and fun. In April I went there to meet Stephanie Stuckey in person for the first time. The day began with a gorgeous sunrise. I watched as Stephanie wrote sweet personal notes to folks who got her new book. We had shared emails and phone calls for three years before finally meeting in person to discuss road trips, pecans, and her new book. Here’s a link to the FIRST article I wrote about Stephanie; https://embracesouthernstates.com/smart-plucky-stephanie-stuckey/ .

Before leaving Augusta, I took time to enjoy the Riverwalk and a large variety of ornate clocks and fountains.

“UnStuck: Rebirth of an American Icon” is excellent!
Stephanie Stuckey & Angela Dowdy in Augusta, GA.
Lovely clock & fountain near Augusta Riverwalk.

THREE MONTHS LATER

Stephanie Stuckey loves road trips. She also enjoys collaborating with other brands. So, it was a pleasant surprise to learn that she  would be making a short stop in Tallahassee promoting both the Stuckey’s snacks and the Georgia Peach Truck. In July I watched as the peaches were being unloaded at Tallahassee Nurseries. I enjoyed taking photos on the grounds that cover about ten acres.

Once again Stephanie and I celebrated road trips, pecans, and her new book. She and her partners have brought the Stuckey’s brand back into turning a profit. She has fully embraced both the entrepreneurial journey and the great American road trip. Readers of the new book will be moved and motivated by this unconventional dynamo who has made sure new generations can enjoy Stuckey’s along their own wonderful road trips.

Tallahassee Nurseries made room for peaches and pecans!
More selfies of Angela Dowdy & Stephanie Stuckey!

Life is SO good when you EMBRACE road trips, EMBRACE pecans, EMBRACE new books, and EMBRACE Southern States. Two ways to connect with Stuckey’s on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stuckeystop/ OR https://www.instagram.com/stuckeys_pecans/ .

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Artists Helping Artists: Pop-Up Plans

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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.”

Spread the love of joyful art.

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 14th and December 12th. 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?

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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!!!

Lydia Bell & RR Square

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Ask Tallahassee locals where to find the perfect combination of local art, affordable food, and vintage goods… the answer is usually Railroad Square. Ask them to explain what the place is or who helps keep it organized… the answer is usually a blank stare. Well, the good news is that just a few months ago Lydia Bell became the Executive Director at “ACERS”, an acronym for the nonprofit organization Arts and Cultural Experiences at Railroad Square.

How do you explain your job?

   With a background as artist and small business owner, I bring needed resources to the art district to help manifest art into cultural experiences that benefit our citizens and local economy. It is exciting to share ideas and information with such a diverse group of talented artists. We all continually boost each other’s confidence and fan the flames of passion for our work. I love the trust and freedom I have been handed in this position. As a dreamer and a doer, I know now is a great time to show Tallahassee some magic while doing projects which will also highlight the true worth of these amazing artists.

Why should the general public respect what Railroad Square is all about?

   The artists and small business owners here work hard to provide goods and services to make a living doing what they love and still pay their bills. The government may think of them as common people with expensive hobbies in little stores, yet they have real power to do big and beautiful work. They also deserve big support by real patrons. They are a huge part of what draws people to Tallahassee.

What else do you love about Tallahassee?

   Tallahassee is a quirky and unique city with a deep history. We are going through changes during an interesting time, somehow Tallahassee will emerge as more progressive and positive than ever. We have beautiful variety of nature and landscapes, as well as proximity to many of Florida’s best locations.

The people of Railroad Square are diverse and talented.

How do you feel about travel?

   Travel sparks my creativity. I love to research places to visit and what to photograph and how to fit it into my schedule. I love returning to favorite California cities like San Francisco or Laguna Beach. I want to see the whole world. If I had to choose a destination right this second, I would say Rome, Italy is extremely high on my bucket list.

What other topics bring out your passion?

   The utmost would be my daughter. A fun memory is of a time I took her out of school early so we could attend a Paramore concert in Jacksonville for her birthday. I have an overwhelming passion for all art forms, which certainly includes music. I strongly believe that people need more respect of each other’s intelligence. We need to be straight with one another to have meaningful conversations on any topic without fear of confrontation or complication.

What makes you an exuberant person?

   I am resourceful, honest, and loyal. I get excited about all the friendships and opportunities here at Railroad Square. We all share enormous hope for a bright future. The work can be exhausting, yet also tremendously rewarding.

What is your message to the world?

   Above all else, the Golden Rule remains golden for a reason. Remember to always treat others the way you wish to be treated.

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Dang y’all, Lydia Bell has such enthusiasm for the Railroad Square art district and a deep commitment to making sure that “ACERS” helps achieve its true potential.

Please be sure to use the Contact form to leave YOUR comments about this article. We are eager to hear from YOU.

Meet John Trombetta: Executive Presence

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A good leader is confident, knowledgeable, and inspiring. I call that being easy on the mind. A good leader can explain the mission of his organization with clarity and credibility. I call that being easy on the ears. A good leader will speak lovingly of his job, his wife, his dog, his hobbies, and his alma mater. I call that being easy on the heart. A good leader has features which are appealing and approachable. I call that being easy on the eyes. I am a big fan of John Trombetta, since he is the best and most shining example of a good leader on all counts.  

Serving the Big Bend area with a warm smile and deep respect.

What can you tell me about your job?

     I am the Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Project in Tallahassee. As such, I make sure our organization has the expertise, funding, and structure to carry out our mission. Our staff and volunteers provide services across the Big Bend area for people with memory disorders and their caregivers. The biggest reward is the sound of relief in a caregiver’s voice when they talk to someone who respectfully listens and can help them. This job has a direct impact on my community. I would also encourage readers to donate or be a volunteer.

How do you handle the most difficult conversations?

     When feelings are rooted in experience it leads to understanding, especially when the context is sitting right in front of me. I bridge the chasm of differing beliefs by considering each other’s worldviews and how they were formed. We may respectfully agree to disagree, but never let opinions get in the way of a friendship or a willingness to help in a time of need.

Could you talk about Tallahassee and how you feel about travel?

     Here in Tallahassee there is genuine hospitality, and everyone can feel like a local. It has a relaxing pace and such beauty in the hills, trees, and moss. One place I’d like to go again is Scotland. I also hope to someday visit my grandfather’s birthplace and hometown in Italy.

What activities bring out your deepest passion or enthusiasm?

     Golf would be the biggest one. I love the game and going to different courses, some of which are world class. And, by the way, on November 2nd there will be a gold fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Project. It is called the “Cliff Hinkle Round to Remember”. Other than golf, I enjoy fishing and bird hunting. I’m not overly creative but do get creative when trying to solve problems. I listen to music every day and get an energy from it. Art inspires me by the depth to which it can take me into the subject. Food is a group activity that’s best when shared with good company. Of course, relaxing at home with my wife Beth Anne and our schnauzer Gus is often the best way to recharge.

Always be willing to help others.

What is the most fun thing you have ever done?

     Big family trips watching nieces and nephews discover new things. If you ever let fear prevent you from trying something, watch a child water or snow ski for the first time. We should all be that fearless.

What makes you an exuberant person?

     I don’t know that I am. On the negative side I will get excitable when a referee makes a bad call, or you try to take my dessert away from me. But seriously, on the positive side I experience the greatest joy through time well spent and seeing people at their best.

What is your message to the world?

      Pick your battles carefully because some hills are not big enough to fight for or to die on. Always be willing to help others. Always be willing to ask for and accept help. Have the courage and respect to learn new cultures and grace when practicing your own. 

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John Trombetta is the epitome of charm, confidence, and executive presence. Dang y’all, maybe I should start a fan club for him. Well, I certainly hope you enjoyed this article. I ask that you please leave a kind comment for all to see.  Thank you. 

Meet Janis David: Modern Day Renaissance Woman

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She is always eager to learn, to grow, and to enjoy good company. Nature, animals, and all people are treated with compassion and acceptance by her. She is simultaneously calming and exciting, simple and complicated.

Could you tell the readers what you do?

      I am an author of stories and books. I am an instructor of Qigong and Belly Dance, and a sensuality coach. Not long ago I owned and sold a computer software company and I still do a little work in real estate. Because I made some sound investments years ago, now at age 65 I am free to be my own boss and live in my own style.

Escapades of a Belly Dancer (vol.1 & vol.2)

What are your best qualities?

     I bring a unique perspective of energy, sensuality, and creative expression to all that I do. I put feelings into words and actions that some cannot understand, and many cannot describe. I am an existential empath who is self-actualized.

Could you talk about where you have lived and traveled?

     I previously lived in New York, California, Hawaii, New Mexico, and Utah. I have now lived in Florida for 23 years. Where I live in Crawfordville is about 18 miles south of Tallahassee and filled with natural beauty. My property is peaceful and calming, close to rivers, springs, and beaches. I have visited Italy, Australia, and England. If I ever do travel again, I’d like to see Africa. But I’m happy right here, right now.

Which are you most passionate about: art, food, or music?

     That’s difficult since they are all part of my passion for life. I love food and cooking for friends. I cook using food as medicine. I am an artist. I am a dancer who moves to music.

I’m also an artist and dancer.

What activities do you find most fun or relaxing?

     Nature’s negative ions help to mellow me out and expand my sensuality. I have a medical marijuana license and find that ingesting THC stimulates creativity. Watering my gardens and exercising are great. I also find photography, weaving, painting, and drawing very relaxing. The most fun ever was an Essence of Being seminar during which I walked on both hot coals and broken glass, and I also flew through the air on a cable. All of that was empowering and I proved to myself that I could do it.

What makes you an exuberant person?

     Mainly it is my zest for life and freedom from guilt. I like who I am, a strong and confident Scorpio. I have unconditional love for all people and animals.

What is your message to the world?

     We are all one. We need to recognize and repair racial disparities. We all have the right to believe in our God of choice since it is all the same and we just use different names.

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Dang y’all! I hope you found Janis just as fascinating as I did. What did you find to be the most surprising or interesting part of the interview? What would you ask her? Please, take a moment to leave your questions and kind comments.

 

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