COULD TALLAHASSEE BICENTENNIAL CHANGE YOUR LIFE?

January 24, 2024 by angelchatt

In a word, YES, taking part in even just a smattering of the events and activities during the 2024 Bicentennial of Tallahassee could change your life! It may not endow you with superpowers, but all the exciting doing and learning may very well open your eyes, your heart, and your mind in positive and transformative ways.

Do you know much about Tallahassee? Allow me to give you a glance at this wonderful town, through the eyes of a travel writer who happens to reside here. Tallahassee is a friendly and vibrant multicultural destination known for intertwining the best of art, education, greenery, and history. It warmly welcomes everyone from college students to retirees. Let’s take a look at some of the fascinating folks, food, facts, and fun…but not necessarily in that order!

TALLAHASSEE FACTS

Tallahassee was established as the capitol of Florida in 1824 because it sits at the top of the state’s Panhandle region, halfway between Pensacola and St. Augustine. Before then, it was home to the Indigenous tribes of the Apalachee and the Seminole. Back in 1824 the entire bottom portion of Florida was mostly uninhabitable swamp that politicians hardly took into consideration . Oh, yes, times certainly have changed!

Do you like numbers? Tallahassee has been home to 5 Nobel Prize winners, 3 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 2 astronauts. There have also been well over 100 celebrities including actors, artists, musicians, sports figures, and writers! Should I name just a few? Perhaps you have heard of Bobby Bowden, Burt Reynolds, Faye Dunaway, Polly Holiday, George Clinton, T-Pain, and Jim Morrison.

TALLAHASSEE FOLKS

Now I’m eager to tell you about three of the “regular” folks who currently add their own kind of joy to our town. These are people whom I have met and hold in high regard. Find these or similar Tally residents who will touch your heart and stay in your thoughts. They (uh, we) agree that the Tallahassee Bicentennial really can change your life on many levels.

THE MAYOR OF OUR FINE CITY

The mayor of our fine city is John Dailey, a good man with a strong commitment to the future. He listens with unconditional respect, helps solve the concerns of local citizens, and knows how to mix seriousness with fun. He loves Tallahassee for its small-town charm, natural beauty, and opportunities for education or retirement.

A BUSY BUREAU CHIEF

Shari Hubbard is a sparkling ray of sunshine who helps educate others on food issues in her role at the Florida Department of Agriculture. She values exercise, nutrition, and intentional kindness. She loves our town for its concerts, festivals, greenways, libraries, museums, and restaurants.

FOR A GREAT RIDE

Mike Goldstein owns Capital City Pedicabs “an inexpensive, environmentally friendly, fun, and safe means of transportation”. He can take you for a ride and show you the best places in town. Chat with him and you will know he deeply respects “Tally” and hopes you do, too.

TALLAHASSEE FOOD

Whether you are local or visiting Florida’s capital city, we want you to know that our fabulous food options and the Bicentennial can change your life. Here is a sampling (in alphabetical order) of the first six favorite places that came to my mind when thinking about how to satisfy and delight your foodie desires.

BRADLEY’S COUNTRY STORE 10655 Centerville Rd is almost 100 years old and in a very picturesque setting so bring your camera. Famous for smoked sausage. They also make their own grits, jams, and sauces.

CRACKER BARREL 2920 Hospitality Rd has your fill of comfort foods and a nice fireplace. Breakfast is served all day or pick from things like burgers, chicken, pork, salads and more.

Can’t beat this breakfast at Cracker Barrel!

HABANA’S BOARDWALK 2819 Mahan Dr will transport you to Cuba with lovely décor and authentic Cuban food that is more than delicious.

HARRY’S 301 S. Bronough St brings New Orleans cuisine to you in fine fashion. Shrimp, crawfish, and all your Cajun favorites served in a refined setting.

Sensational seafood and Cajun cuisine at Harry’s.

SAGE 33534 Maclay Blvd S offers American fare with a French feel. This high-end restaurant has excellent quiche, fancy meals, wonderful wines, and decadent desserts.

WAHOO 2714 Graves Rd does Southern food with a Cajun flare. In this fun and casual setting, fill up on gator tail, oysters, pasta, and all the best beverages.

Crab cakes and gator tail at Wahoo, oh yes!!!

TALLAHASSEE BICENTENNIAL FUN

Could the Tallahassee Bicentennial change your life? Dang, y’all… you better believe the answer is YES!!! Which of these is most appealing to you: art, diversity, food, history, murals, museums, music, or parades? Are you looking for inspiration, education, or excitement? Come find all that and more in 2024.

A small sampling of the events includes a Ball and a Poetry Jam in March, three festivals and Pridefest in April, and May will offer both the Southern Shakespeare Festival and the Emancipation Day Celebration. New events are still being added to the calendar practically every day.

Places not to be missed would have to include Cascades Park, FAMU, FSU, Florida Historic Capitol Museum, Lake Ella, Maclay Gardens, and Railroad Square. Be sure to see a few of the canopy roads, greenways, parks, and trails.

USEFUL LINKS https://visittallahassee.com/ https://choosetallahassee.com/news/ https://tallahasseeleoncounty200.com/ https://www.flhistoriccapitol.gov/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/livingtallahassee

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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!

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WANDERERS WARMLY WELCOMED

November 9, 2023 by angelchatt

Welcome Centers are a wonderful place to get out of the car, find a clean restroom, and find great travel information. Today I’m sharing info and photos of two of the most welcoming Welcome Centers which I frequent as a driver on Interstate 10. I’m including lots of reasons why you should see these two I-10 Welcome Centers and be among the wanderers warmly welcomed.

Alabama

Let’s say you have been driving East from the Mississippi Gulf Coast and need a stretch break with plenty to see and do. Set your GPS for 10226 Hall Road in Grand Bay, Alabama 36541. This beautiful and spacious Welcome Center was completed in 2016 and has been called the “Grandest of All, Like the Taj Mahal!” I kid you not, folks in Alabama really do say that!

As you approach, notice the many sea creatures and coastal theme of the artwork inside and out. Once inside be sure to look at the intricate details on the floor and the ceiling. Not only can you pick up brochures, but you can also ask plenty of questions that will be kindly answered by the great staff. They can even explain some of the Mardi Gras items on display and the facts about when Mardi Gras really started in this area.

Your fabulous experience at the Grand Bay Welcome Center will get you excited to see so much more of “Sweet Home Alabama” and there is SO MUCH to see. https://alabama.travel/

Florida

After you drive from Alabama and cross into Florida, you will only need to go about 4 miles. Then you will find the Pensacola (Escambia County) Welcome Center. First you will see a Blue Angel aircraft and several other great photo ops that you will want to post on your Instagram.

Check out the great info about native bear, panther, and other animals. Then check out the adorable artwork of flamingos above the entrance. You will find wanderers warmly welcomed here as the friendly staff will offer you a free juice and excellent recommendations on whatever you may wish to do in Florida.

Pick up destination info on beaches, museums, parks, swamps, and so many other great attractions you may have never even thought of before. Read a few outside at the covered picnic tables, take a brief walk, then enjoy the remainder of your journey as you reflect on wanderers warmly welcomed. https://www.visitflorida.com/

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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

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

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BUILD BIG EVENTS THAT MAKE SENSE

September 25, 2023 by angelchatt

BUILD BIG EVENTS THAT MAKE SENSE

Memorable moment maker Susan Stafford shares expertise.

Have you ever admired people who can plan nice celebrations? Think of the last time you attended a great graduation party or a sweet baby shower. Now try to imagine planning a gathering on a much grander scale and to potentially be held in another country! Yikes! Event planner extraordinaire Susan Stafford has been doing exactly that for years and talks about life, fun, and travel. Then she explains how to build big events that make sense by paying exceptional attention to every small detail.

GETTING TO KNOW THE BASIC INFO

What interesting stuff should we know about you?

My bachelor’s degree is from Birmingham-Southern College and my master’s degree is from right here at Florida State University in my wonderful hometown of Tallahassee. I’m happily married. We have three children and four cats.

What do you love most about Tallahassee?

There is so much to enjoy here. Everyone needs to experience the Shakespeare Festival, the Springtime Tallahassee Parade, an exciting football game, and a tour of the Capitol Complex that has so much art and history. Tallahassee is a great hub, too, and close to beautiful small towns such as Havana, Florida and Bainbridge, Georgia. It is also a perfect distance for a day trip to the beach.

What’s at the top of your travel wish list right now?

I do love to travel so much and would absolutely love to go on an African safari and see an amazing variety of wildlife.

I love travel, walking, reading, family, and food.

What can you share about hobbies, passions, and things you do for fun?

Good “Southern grandma food” is simply the best, and my own grandma planted that passion in my heart. I love sharing food with family and with friends. Walking is my favorite form of activity, and my favorite form of inactivity is reading all types of books, including travel logs.

Three fun things I’ve done recently were ziplining, riding an ATV, and (the best one was) when a Bluegrass band in Ashville gave a group of us a lesson in square dancing.

A BIT OF THE BACKSTORY

How did you learn to build big events that make sense?

It started with a fascination for law and having attorneys in the family. I am a meticulous person who loves to be helpful and solve problems. I did not want to become a lawyer but did want to help them plan meetings in memorable places. My ability to turn their general ideas and hopes into an extremely specific plan of action just organically led to event planning and inevitably to co-founding my current business, which is The Event Architects.

GET THE JOB DONE AND STILL HAVE FUN

How on earth do you mix mega planning with memorable moments?

As a corporate event planner and site sourcer, I use my expertise to find out what a group really desires when they think of a retreat. Then I save them lots of time, money, and effort by working out all the particulars and fine points. This would include venue, food, and attendee details. Other extras may encompass excursions, team building activities, and fabulously tailored sessions for entertainment and celebration.

I love to scout out new locations where my clients will enjoy integrating into the local culture and will come away with lasting memories which are so very precious. A big part of my job is to build big events that make sense and be sure they provide a wow factor and great customer service. That way the client’s entire experience is relaxed and remarkable.

SUSAN’S JOY AND MESSAGE

Why are you a joyful person?

Love for family, friends, and clients combines so well with my being helpful and detail oriented. Whether for business or pleasure, I always purposely leave much time for joy and for being in the moment. I remember everything in a good way, and that also brings me immense joy.

Do you have a message for the world?

Oh, yes! GO! Get out there, go see unfamiliar places, meet new people, taste new foods. Go do all the things…big events and memorable moments filled with joy. Do the things!

— ____ — ____ — ____ —

Dang, y’all, Susan Stafford turns tiny details into big events which are filled with precious and memorable moments. For over 16 years, she has sourced, planned and pleased with a personal touch. I simply admire her so much. She really can build big events that make sense. I also look forward to speaking with her again about several of the things we have in common, such as a Southern grandma, and a love of food, books, and travel.

Find out more about The Event Architects at https://www.myeventarchitects.com/about-us

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.

Of Murals & Men, in Missouri

May 31, 2023 by angelchatt

You do know by now how much I love road trips, RIGHT? I am still waiting on some of y’all to comment on my previous article found here https://embracesouthernstates.com/nature-in-missouri/ … in the meantime let’s take a look at just a few “of murals & men, in Missouri” . This includes just a tiny fraction of the many inspiring historical figures, and amazing folks who are actively doing positive things there today.

Are you comfortable and ready to explore? Okay, we are fixin’ to have a bunch of fun! So grab a glass of sweet tea and come along with me!

George Washington Carver

The George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond, Missouri, is full, free, and fascinating! It is open from 9am until 5pm every day except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. You will learn new facts about this remarkable and resilient man.

While touring this first National Park to honor an African-American, you will enjoy monuments, photos, murals, multimedia, as well as the pleasure of exploring the 240-acre site at your own pace. I can pretty much guarantee that you will gain a deeper admiration of the plant lover who overcame many hardships to become a respected humanitarian, man of faith, scientist, and teacher.

Ampersand Sculpture

This eight foot tall ampersand (symbol for “and”) gives a nod to history and is located at 3434 S. Rangeline Road in Joplin.

When you study it up close and personal, you will see info on art, music, mining, and landmarks along Route 66. Also noted is the duo Bonnie & Clyde who hid out in a local building near 34th Street & Oak Ridge Drive. Dang, y’all, this is pretty cool.

Quilt Town, USA

Quilters already know that Hamilton is the town for every shop, gadget, and fabric that any quilt maker could ever need.

Others may know that it was the birthplace of left fielder Zack Wheat who was elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1959.

Still others may be aware that J. C. Penney was born on a farm just outside of Hamilton. He later became famous for founding a department store that bears his name.

Who Invented Sliced Bread?

The small town of Chillicothe, Missouri ,celebrates being the home of sliced bread and the unofficial holiday “Sliced Bread Day” is July 7th. Next time you reach for sliced bread to pop into your toaster, be sure to thank Otto Rohwedder and Frank Bench! Their names may not be familiar, but what they accomplished certainly is!

When you get to view this inspiring mural in person, you will probably agree that it is one of the greatest things since sliced bread!

Two Civil War Historical Sites

On the western edge of Missouri is a small town named Republic, where you can visit Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. This site of the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River has lots of educational information that includes exhibits, books, and a film. Two cannons rest on the hillside just outside the visitor center and museum.

About a three and a half hour drive to the eastern edge of the state will bring you to the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site just south of St. Louis. There you can watch a film, take a tour, or browse through the museum.

More Than Just A Library

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library first opened its door in 1957 and continues to expand and impress to this day. Here you can spend hours exploring the various sections, enjoying multimedia presentations, and viewing the murals and other artwork.

Inside you can find a replica of the Oval Office or browse through the Museum Store (gift shop). Outside you can walk around the courtyard to view a freedom flame and the final resting place of Truman, his wife, and their daughter. Dang, y’all, this place rocks!

Of Mice & Men & Marceline

Whenever you think of Disney, do you first think of the man (Walt) or the mouse (Mickey) or the theme parks? After visiting the Walt Disney Hometown Museum, you may just change your answer to “Marceline, Missouri”! This place is awesome!

Whether you are age three or ninety-three, your experience in Marceline will stay in your heart. As a baby boomer, I was reminded of both Davy Crockett and the Mickey Mouse Club. And, yes, I can remember all the words to both theme songs! Oh, you can also buy t-shirts with the quotes mentioned in the above photo.

Meet a Ranger in Van Buren

Shaun Heise grew up in Missouri and has worked for the National Park Service for eight years. His official title is Lower Current District Interpretive Ranger. Shaun loves sharing facts about the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which includes Big Spring and Alley Spring.

Shaun says these waters are always cool, have existed since prehistoric times, and are fascinating from a geological perspective. He is one friendly ranger who is eager to pass along knowledge about Missouri and the Ozark culture. I sure hope you get to meet him soon.

Meet A Riverboat Captain

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a short cruise on the Mississippi River? A great way to achieve that goal is to climb aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat in Hannibal, Missouri, and meet Captain Steve.

He shares great info about life on the river both now and in the past. His wife Sandy works in the gift shop and his sister is often found working the galley. Captain Steve is a well-known local celebrity in Hannibal and a walking encyclopedia of deep details and riverboat realities.

Meet This Wonderful Waiter

When you are ready to wet your whistle with homemade root beer, go to the Mark Twain Dinette in Hannibal. Be sure to ask for Bobby as your server. He is one of the kindest and most helpful people in town. Bobby listens closely to his customers, then takes time to thoughtfully answer even their strangest questions.

I love to ask folks what travel destinations are on their bucket list. Bobby said New Zealand tops his list. For great conversation, just ask how he feels about the St. Louis Cardinals! I am so thrilled to have met Bobby on my travels, because he really touched my heart.

—- —- —- —- —-

Now that you’ve seen the photos of murals and men in Missouri…and a tiny bit about each story, PLEASE take a minute to tell me which impressed YOU the most. Remember that leaving a COMMENT here makes it easier for me to keep giving YOU more people, places, and photos to help plan your travels!

Here are links for more info: (1.) https://www.nps.gov/places/george-washington-carver-national-monument.htm (2.) https://www.visitjoplinmo.com/ (3.)https://visithamiltonmo.com/ (4.) https://visitchillicothe.com/ (5a.) https://www.nps.gov/wicr/index.htm (5b.) https://www.nps.gov/ulsg/index.htm (6.) https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/ (7.)https://www.waltdisneymuseum.org/ (8.)https://www.nps.gov/ozar/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm (9.)https://marktwainriverboat.com/ (10.)https://www.marktwaindinette.com/

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Let me know if you need ANY help planning your next Southern road trip…I would love to negotiate with you as you embrace the best trip ever!

Nature In Missouri

May 20, 2023 by angelchatt

Recently I enjoyed a wonderful 10-day road trip in Missouri. I’ve decided to do a few articles about that, starting with NATURE! So this one, a wistful photo documentary, is for all the nature lovers. Check out these photos, then PLEASE leave a Comment letting me know which ones you like best. Nature in Missouri …rivers, springs, mountains, caves, and so much more!

Big Spring…Place & Thing & Spring & Beauty

The largest freshwater spring in Missouri, “Big Spring”, can be found near the southeastern town of Van Buren. Find highway 60 and then head south on highway 103 and you will enter the park. It is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways that protects over 130 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. Once you have found it, you may never want to leave. This place of quiet beauty is a fine example of soothing natural splendor at its best.

Alley Spring Could Make Your Heart Sing

Alley Spring and the Alley Mill were featured on a quarter in 2017 as part of celebrating America the Beautiful. After you leave Big Spring, take highway 60 to Winona then 19 to Eminence and finally 106 to Alley Spring. The extremely friendly park rangers there will gladly and patiently answer all your questions about the blue water and all fascinating local natural resources. See the one room schoolhouse and the general store before you depart.

Be Brave & Rave About This Cave

In the charming and nostalgic town of Hannibal, Missouri, you can prove that you are brave by touring Mark Twain Cave. Of course, later you will rave about all you learned inside. The narrow passages are dimly lit and chilly. You can experience total darkness and see a hideout used by Jesse James. Enjoy tales about the fictional characters Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher as you search for signatures written on the walls.

Fun Of Driving In The Mountains

Dang, y’all, this writer lives in a fairly flat section of Florida. So I was thrilled to take a drive early one morning in the misty mountains of Missouri. Every twist and hairpin turn was a total joy. Pockets of thick mist are so enchanting and tiny hints of blue sky simply seem to promise that more adventure will be around every curve. Traffic was very light that day and, of course, so was my spirit.

Abundant Colors Along The Riverbanks And Bluffs

Tiny white clouds in the blue sky fade into the background as the give and take of yellow sunshine and brown shadow play among the green and purple trees. The multiple tones of brown and gray rocks give way to yellow foliage in the foreground. Why do such colors thrill me so? I don’t rightly know. They are a playful and peaceful party in my mind.

This Color Is Called Stellar Pink

What do you think of the stellar pink shade of flower found on this dogwood? I spied this gorgeous young specimen on the grounds of White Haven (part of U.S.Grant historic site) just ten or so miles south of downtown St. Louis, Missouri. The bush was only four feet high and should grow into a lovely tree.

Oh Cow, How Art Thou?

Usually cows run away when a stranger approaches. But these adorable bovines stood stoically still and studied me just as I studied them in their meadow. Then the little darlings once again quietly chewed their cud and contemplated the cosmos. After my own brief cow admiration and self-deliberation, I decided upon salad in lieu of hamburger.

Happy Diamond Dew On Rising Ground

Has the sight of grass ever inspired you to recite a poem? When I found this mound of rising ground wet with dew that shined like diamonds, I recalled a haiku I had written years before. “Grass in the morning is wet with tears of angels, maybe tears for me.” These dewdrops do seem like happy tears.

Whether Or Not Nature Is Weather

Have you ever experienced weird weather in Missouri? In that span of 10 days I saw torrential rain, flooding, a rock slide, and two tornadoes. A dear friend and I were forced to cut short our photo shoot and sit in her car for about an hour due to a sudden hail storm. On the positive side, I did see a rainbow and a double rainbow. I just had to wonder how much powerful and weird weather this old barn has survived…and how much longer it may stand.

Does nature take back or reclaim her own…quickly or slowly? We may say slowly if we watch growth creep up weekly or monthly. This once beautiful house could take decades to deteriorate and become uninhabitable. Just the thought makes me eerily pensive, perhaps wistful…and oh the stories it inspires.

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Plan your Missouri road trip with great info https://www.visitmo.com/ Riverways info can be found here https://www.nps.gov/ozar/learn/index.htm Mark Twain Cave info website is https://www.marktwaincave.com/ Grant site is https://www.nps.gov/ulsg/index.htm

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Thanks for stopping by and I do hope you left a kind Comment! Which photo did you love?