#joy 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.

JOYFUL SOUTHERN STATES MOMENTS

October 31, 2024 by angelchatt

Do you know what I wish for you? The answer is joyful adventures in Southern States filled with thrilling moments of pure bliss. Those unforgettable times of exploring a destination and forming a vivid new memory filled with beauty, awe, wonder, and happy tears of complete joy!

So, to be clear, the theme of this photo essay is: how you can experience these joyful moments in Southern States. I will share links to the where, then you decide when to go do the doings for yourself. Before you go, I’ll gladly answer questions and help you plan a great trip. After you go, please let me know how you enjoyed it, okay?

MUCH BEAUTY TO BEHOLD

Hopefully we can all agree that beauty is a matter of personal opinion and preference. You may prefer the art of Monet, while I lean toward Van Gogh. You may prefer a ballet, while I find beauty in the sweet and simple things of life that make every day a grand occasion.

Carriage rides around a peaceful lake make for great photos.

Every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, Bradley’s Country Store https://bradleyscountrystore.com/ hosts an Old Fashioned Fun Day. Bradley’s has been a North Florida tradition since 1927 and generations of folks love their nostalgic store, their sausage, and their annual fun day. I love the beauty of the carriages leisurely circling the peaceful lake as the greenery of the trees is reflected on the water. That’s one way we enjoy life’s simpler beauty in Tallahassee, Florida.

The simple beauty of an old covered bridge is captivating .

Just off State Route 79 about a mile west of Cleveland, Alabama, you will find Swann Bridge Road. Pull over to take some photos of the Swann Covered Bridge that was built in 1933 with a captivating lattice truss design. See https://www.historic-structures.com/al/cleveland/swann-covered-bridge/#google_vignette for details. Look closely while visiting and you will likely see folks fishing or kayaking. In this charming spot you can appreciate how something so practical can also be so exquisite.

A FEW FAVORITE PLACES

How “Southern” are you and how much joy can you handle? I strongly encourage you to be SURE to experience the joyful Southern States moments in these next four places.

Savannah’s Amethyst House is impressive & joyful architecture.

Words most often used to describe Savannah, Georgia, include fascinating, haunted, historical, and unique. Each time I visit I focus on a different aspect such as the architecture, riverfront, food, or fountains. Steps away from the fountain at Forsyth Park view the incredible architecture of the Amethyst House, https://www.amethystgardensavannah.com/ an 1880’s Victorian mansion on Gaston Street, which is now a lavish and popular Inn. Savannah is filled with impressive and astonishing architecture.

Jackson Square in New Orleans equals excitement and happiness to me.

A joyful day in New Orleans, Louisiana, really should include a casual stroll around Jackson Square. https://www.neworleans.com/listing/jackson-square/32150/ Music, laughter, art, and excitement … they all seem alive here. To let the good times roll in this happy place, walk across the street to Cafe du Monde for an order of beignets and chicory coffee. Try it, and let me know what you think!

Marion Square makes me think of … joy and truth!

Next time you visit Charleston, South Carolina, enjoy Marion Square https://www.charlestonparksconservancy.org/park-finder/marion-square/ and the fountain located at Calhoun and King Streets. Colorful shops surround it as playful sculptures of frogs and other creatures enhance it. What I find intriguing are the “4-way Test” questions https://the4waytest.com/history-of-the-four-way-test/ on the benches. Everything about this spot makes me think deeply about how much love and joy I find in the USA, especially in our South. And that’s the truth!

Statue of Elvis feels welcoming in any weather.

Did you ever imagine spending time alone with ELVIS ? In the town of his birth (Tupelo, Mississippi) I spent an hour with him (OK, with a statue of him). People were scarce after a recent snowfall. As you can see from the photo, the statue is in front of the Tupelo City Hall. Tupelo https://www.tupelo.net/ is lovely with tons to discover. Thank you, thank you very much!

AWE AND WONDER

Next are three completely different joyful moments of profound awe and wonder.

Affogato makes my taste buds do a happy dance!

Have you experienced the taste sensation of affogato? Have you ever even heard of it? https://geraldsicecream.com/ Gerald’s Ice Cream in Virginia Beach, Virginia, has perfected the Italian treat by pouring espresso over ice cream and a very precisely prepared whipped cream. This sensory stimulation is sweet satisfaction with a rush of awe and wonder. If you plan ahead, you could sit down for a pleasant conversation with Gerald himself. Go ahead and add this to your bucket list!

Eerily compelling ruins of a once-grand Capitol.

Turn your thoughts to history as you gaze upon ruins. Tuscaloosa served as the Alabama State Capital from 1826 to 1846. This once-grand Capitol later was part of a college that burned down in 1923. If you happen to be out walking at the crack of dawn and literally stumble upon this, as I did, I’m betting you will find it eerily picturesque and compelling. Capitol Park

Oddly beautiful magnolia stamens resemble matchsticks.

About 27 miles south of Columbus, Georgia, on Hwy 27 sits a tiny historic district where a town named Antioch had been renamed Louvale in 1886. The area has four churches, one museum, and only a few other buildings. https://www.wikiwand.com/en/articles/Louvale,_Georgia After a heavy rain, I was admiring the trees. The magnolia stamens looking like scattered matchsticks were oddly beautiful. Do you agree?

BRING ON THOSE HAPPY TEARS

These final three photos represent joyful Southern States moments that brought me so much happiness that I really did cry happy tears. I deeply hope you will be able to feel that same emotion when you visit these destinations.

Folk art touches my heart in a huge way, so does my handsome husband.

Near the little town of Buena Vista, Georgia, find the completely colorful one-of-a-kind place known as Pasaquan. https://www.columbusstate.edu/pasaquan/ Several acres of visionary folk art will thrill your senses and fuel your imagination. Take a tour led by Charles Fowler to learn about the legacy of “St. EOM” and hear amusing anecdotes about his bizarre hobbies. The man in the photo is my husband, Tony, and this was part of our honeymoon road trip.

Spinning whirligigs bring a giddy glee to folks like me.

The 2-acre Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in Wilson, North Carolina is a folk art lover’s paradise. Over 30 large whirligigs with hundreds of moving parts of aluminium, steel, wood, and assorted moving parts are sure to bring a smile to your face at any age. https://www.wilsonwhirligigpark.org/ As they spin and turn with the wind, your eyes will light up and you may even feel both gleeful and giddy!

Capturing a stunning sunrise on camera is something I look forward to on my road trips. On an April morning in Palatka, Florida, this superbly perfect sunrise over the St. Johns River brought the biggest and most joyful tears I had cried in years. Afterward I took my mother on a tour of Palatka’s famous murals http://www.conleemurals.org/murals.html . It was her birthday, which made me cry more happy tears.

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What do you think? Which photos best caught your attention or filled you with a sense of adventure or joy? Let me know of any questions as you start to plan your own road trip to any of these great destinations. There are unlimited possibilities for joyful Southern States moments and I try to tell you about a whole bunch of them!

Remember: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates

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

LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS SITE… your kindness WILL bring me JOY !!!

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Dang, y’all... JOY & THANKS!

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 !

St. Paddy’s with a New Orleans Flair

March 17, 2023 by angelchatt

Lanky leprechaun loving his lucky beads?

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.

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!

Good friends & good photos make GREAT memories!

Now remember to leave a nice comment, and you can find EmbraceSouthernStates on either our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates or over on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ …THANKS FOR BEING YOU!

Joyful 2022 Photos

January 3, 2023 by angelchatt

JOY is the theme! Which joyful 2022 photos do YOU like best? Which ones make you feel most joyful, and why? Your Comment would certainly be most welcomed and appreciated!

It is true…every picture does tell a story. As I looked back over hundreds of photos and tried to decide on just 12, these kept jumping out at me…jumping for joy! After you study each, then consider the (greatly condensed) story behind it…what are your gut reactions?

Does the photo alone cause you to feel joy, or does that come along after you know more of the details? What do you think of this style of simple photography with little or no extra processing? Have you been to any of these locations? How do you find examples of joy during your travels?

Embracing the Moment

The expression of complete joy on this man’s face is precious! Despite the February chill, he fully embraced the moment during a jazz festival in Bainbridge, Georgia. Watching him dance with so much enthusiasm warmed my heart and lifted my spirit several notches.

Food is a frequent topic of my articles and photos. While at that same jazz festival, I happily embraced the moment to enjoy barbecue and potato salad. Do you have a favorite BBQ story that makes you smile?

During a Florida art festival, I helped kids choose free art projects. This young man eagerly chose sidewalk chalk art. He tuned out the world and diligently created art, bringing joy to everyone. When he thanked me, I cried… and thanked God for talented youngsters.

Embracing Simple Pleasures

The early morning sun can make this simple tree bottle glimmer and gleam. Every time I visit Ocean Springs, Mississippi, I make a special point to go see it. I honestly can’t explain why an old ‘haint tree brings me so much pleasure. Can you?

Life is good! Two best friends (Angela & Nina) await hot coffee and beignets at Cafe du Monde in New Orleans, Louisiana. Have you and your best friend ever shared this simple and delicious pleasure? (Tell me in “Comments” below.)

Somewhere around Mobile, Alabama, I got off the main roads…on purpose. Murals seem to call out to me, waiting to be discovered and appreciated. They always (YES ALWAYS) bring me right back to that sense of childlike wonder! Do you love murals?

Maddie is my beautiful calico cat. I just love how the April morning light bounced around the room and highlighted her so perfectly. I strongly prefer these simple photos without extra processing… easy shots that evoke profound emotions.

Embracing a Destination’s Diversity

Charleston, South Carolina is an award-winning city… a kaleidoscope of colors and cultures. Areas of unexpected energy and excitement mix with others of serenity and charm. I marvel at how one place can be so beautiful…and so very eclectic!

Bright costumes like this one represent Caribbean heritage as the parade kicks off Charleston Carifest each June. The parade is followed by music, dancing, food, and fun. Don’t you think her joyful smile is just as lovely as her costume?

I was (very unexpectedly) invited to attend and photograph an LGBT Pride pool party. Rainbow cups, flags, swimsuits, and headbands were everywhere. Folks were friendly and conversant, but a few did avoid the camera. An eye-opening event on multiple levels!

Walking in the historic district brings to view stately homes with lush landscapes behind walls of wrought iron or stone. Charleston is called “the Holy City” because of the numerous church steeples usually present in the background.

Embracing Honeymoon Memories

On our October honeymoon, Tony and I loved exploring the historic Windsor Hotel in Americus, Georgia. This view from the 3rd floor veranda looks across to the circular tower where we occupied the Carter Presidential Suite! Dang, y’all, talk about SWEET !!

Art is joy, joy is art!!! Every art lover needs to visit Georgia’s “Pasaquan”, to be surrounded by acres of vibrant art. Every building, wall, stairway, and post is a one-of-a-kind delight. One man’s obsession has become a treasure for the world, in my artistic opinion!!

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Dang, y’all… there you have it. These 12 photos bring out the best memories of my 2022 travels. While they may not win awards for expert skills or techniques, they do give you a clear view of what I value in a photo.

How do you relate to this? What are you first reactions? YOUR KINDEST AND MOST SINCERE COMMENTS ARE ALWAYS ENCOURAGED !!! Ask me a question or leave a comment, I really do long to hear from you. Please remember that you can also join the conversation in the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates … THANK YOU and may we all take joyful photos in this joyful new year !!!

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!!

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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!

New Orleans: Relax At Jackson Square

May 24, 2022 by angelchatt

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.

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.

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!

ILOVENEWORLEANS ILOVENOLA ILOVENEWORLEANS ILOVENOLA

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