A Long Weekend Archives - Page 6 of 12

3 (of Many) Great Eateries in Oxford, Mississippi

04/23/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Actually, there are 23 places just in the downtown square area of Oxford where students, their parents, faithful Ole Miss alums and visitors can get a bite to eat. I saw several very tempting-looking restaurants I want to try in a future visit, but for the purposes of today’s blog, here are 3 that I sampled and truly enjoyed recently. Stay tuned for 3 more coming next Monday.

OXFORD CANTEEN

“Eat like you mean it” is the catchy slogan for Oxford Canteen, the culinary concept of Chef/Owner Corbin Evans. Now in a refurbished and repurposed former gas station on North Lamar Boulevard, just a few months ago Oxford Canteen was in a narrow alleyway beside The Lyric Oxford. Evans was using a food truck concept, without the tires or a steering wheel, and just served food through a small window to the line of eager customers.

Oxford Canteen, in a former gas station on North Lamar Boulevard.

Corbin Evans, creative owner and chef at Oxford Canteen.

Evans is a board member of Oxford’s Community Market and is excited by serving locally-grown fresh ingredients and in changing his menu frequently to reflect availability and seasons. The Canteen is open Tuesday-Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. I was there for breakfast and enjoyed some delicious breakfast tacos in the sleek new location.

Breakfast tacos at Oxford Canteen.

SAINT LEO

Saint Leo was named a semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant in the 2017 James Beard award categories. Serving lunch and dinner every day except Tuesday, Saint Leo is best known for its wood-fired pizza oven, and one of those pizza creations was recently pictured in Southern Living. The bruschetta was possibly the best I have ever eaten, the pizza was as good as advertised, and the desserts were over-the-top. Saint Leo’s is definitely not your average pizza place. Just a note: Saint Leo doesn’t serve sweet tea, but they do bring a simple syrup to use with your unsweet tea. 🙂 This is a very popular place, so plan accordingly.

Divine bruschetta at Saint Leo’s.

Pizzas fresh out of the wood-fired oven at Saint Leo’s.

A slice of ooey, cheesy goodness at Saint Leo.

Beautiful desserts offered at Saint Leo.

PROUD LARRY’S

Proud Larry’s, similar to Saint Leo, also serves pizza, and the other menu offerings are definitely crowd-friendly. But the clear emphasis here is on music. The walls are lined with posters featuring the groups and soloists that the owners have partnered in bringing to Oxford. They maintain a full schedule of performers, and you would do well to consult the website to see if one of your favorites will be appearing soon. Tickets for the concerts are sold separately. And, you WILL need a ticket.

Evidence of great music performers who have shared their talents at Proud Larry’s.

I had the Larry Burger for lunch and give it a hearty 2 thumbs up. Owner Scott Caradine and his wife are very invested in Oxford and appreciate the success they have built in town. They have just celebrated their 25th anniversary in business. The combination of great food and music has proven to be a winning duo.

Proud Larry’s owner Scott Caradine. No, his name is NOT Larry.

The Larry Burger — Yummo!

A slice of great pizza at Proud Larry’s.

I really loved my time in Oxford, Mississippi. When you visit, consider booking a room at Graduate Oxford or Chancellor’s House. And, by all means, take a tour of Rowan Oak (home of William Faulkner) and L.Q.C. Lamar House. Plan time to browse Square Books, Off Square Books, Square Book Jr. and the many other great stores around the square. I’ll be sharing much more in future articles and posts.

This coming weekend, April 27th-28th, would be a particularly fun time to visit. The annual Double Decker Arts Festival will be in town. Check out the website for all the information.

Double Decker bus about to give a tour.

LEARNING FROM PASSIONATE PEOPLE – Sherrel Jan Davis, Long-Time Atlanta Motor Speedway Fan

04/20/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Her first memory of watching a race with her father was in 1966 when she was only 6 years old. We can all do the math. Sherrel Jan Davis (known to all her friends as “Jan”) has been an ardent fan of racing, and the Atlanta Motor Speedway in particular, for almost 52 years! As a matter of fact, her daddy helped with preparing the land for the track back in 1958. She’s not one of those starstruck fans who clamor for selfies and autographs. No. In her words, she likes “good-looking men in fast cars who can drive 200 miles an hour and run a clean race.”

Jan Davis points out some of Atlanta Motor Speedway’s famous drivers.

Jan has been leading tours at the Speedway for 11 years, and I was lucky enough to ride with her on a tour just a few weeks ago. I admitted to her that I was “a blank slate” when it came to racing, and she was patient in answering my questions, full of facts, and extremely entertaining.

If you’re a movie buff and take a tour of the track and grounds, you might recognize places where scenes were filmed in “Zombieland,” “Hunger Games 2” and “Need for Speed.” Georgia offers a tax break for movie production companies, so more and more locations in our neighboring state are showing up on the big screen.

Jan put us in a van and drove our group (consisting of my daughter, my granddaughter, a man visiting from California and myself) under the grandstands. We got out and took an elevator to the corporate suite level. We got an up-close look at the Arris Suite (Arris is a telecommunications equipment company) which is right next door to Mr. Bruton Smith’s suite, so naturally, we peered in through the glass windows.

View of the track from a corporate suite.

Mr. Smith bought the track in 1990 when it was named Weaver Grandstand, changed the name to Atlanta Motor Speedway, invested $100 million and made it into the premier racing venue it is today. The Atlanta race is the second one on the NASCAR circuit every year, right behind Daytona. During that huge NASCAR weekend, the corporate suites are rented for $35,000 for the whole weekend, and the premium camping spots for motorhomes and the like go for $4000.

Jan let us feel the 24-degree banks in the quarter-mile turns at both a comfortably-fast speed and slower. Believe me, faster is better. 🙂

Getting the feel of those 24-degree turns.

She showed us Tara Place where 46 luxury condos are rented. I learned that there are people who enjoy racing so much they want to live near the track year-round. Wow! We also saw Tara Field, a small airfield where drivers can land their own planes. Jan laughingly shared, “Racers are very competitive people. They even race in their golf carts!” That makes sense when you hear that they can make the mile-and-a-half lap in only 30 seconds. Whoa.

Tour guide and long-time Atlanta Motor Speedway fan, Jan Davis.

She pointed out the In-Care Facility that is staffed and waiting in case of a wreck but told us that a driver wants to be able to crank his car and make it to Pit Road. Then he can continue to race. Above all, he doesn’t want to have to get in the ambulance, thus putting him out of the competition. Ricky Rudd even taped his eyelids open after an accident one day in order to keep racing. In Jan’s words: “These athletes mean it, girl. They MEAN it!”

We saw the statue of Richard Pettey who retired from this very track in 1992 after making 25,000 laps on this track alone. Certainly, that feat deserved a statue.

Richard Petty statue at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

I learned lots of terms, such as Pit Road, Bandelero Races, Legend Races, restrictor plates, Victory Lane, pole position and many more. In addition, Jan shared lots of facts about this track in particular, but I don’t want to spoil it for you. You really owe it to yourself to go and tour the facility in person. Lots of senior adult and church groups go, and they can accommodate large or small numbers of people.

I have lived all my life with practically no knowledge or understanding about a sport that hundreds of thousands are passionate about — probably none (other than the racers themselves) are as passionate as Jan Davis. She’s a delightful person. Go meet her.

Entrance to the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

And speaking of passions — What is YOUR passion? What is mine? What is it that I share with so much enthusiasm, knowledge, and experience that others will want to hear more and maybe get on board?

Ecclesiastes 9:10 “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. . . .”

7 Places to Eat Just South of Atlanta

04/16/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Clayton County, Georgia calls itself “Atlanta’s True South,” and Henry County, Georgia describes itself as “Comfortably South of Atlanta.” The city promoters have done a perfect job with those terms. Clayton and Henry lie on either side of I-75 South as you head out of Atlanta. That means residents of those counties can take advantage of all that Atlanta has to offer (airport, professional sports teams, world-class entertainment possibilities, etc.) but enjoy a rural, small-town atmosphere full of history and quaintness.

During a recent visit to the area, I found 7 eateries you will want to consider when you plan a trip of your own. (Remember that I told you last week about the Road to Tara Museum in this post).

7 Locally-Owned Eateries the Whole Family Will Enjoy

15th Street Pizza & Pub — 2130 Jodeco Road, McDonough, GA. Pizzas take center stage, a fact that will please any youngsters or children you have with you, but you’ll also find salads, burgers, wings, subs, calzones and pasta. The Meatlover Egg Rolls caught our attention, so we added an order with our pizzas.

Meatlovers Egg Rolls at 15th Street Pizza and Pub.

Supreme Pizza at 15th Street Pizza and Pub.

Gritz Family Restaurant — 14 Macon Street, McDonough, GA. Good for breakfast and lunch on the square in McDonough, it is open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sundays. We had a delicious early breakfast in this homey diner.

Pancakes at Gritz Family Restaurant.

French Market & Tavern – 3840 Highway 42 South, Locust Grove, GA. French Market, tucked into a building that dates back to the early 1900’s. is closed on Mondays but is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday and for lunch on Sundays. The menu has a French/CAJUN slant to it with items such as Nola Boudin Balls and Crawfish Etouffee, but gourmet sandwiches predominate for lunch, and the dinner menu includes many seafood dishes, as well as pork, chicken and steaks. Click here to take a look at the yummy dessert offerings. Be sure to allow time to browse the boutique market displays in the front room of this attractive restaurant.

Zucchini and cornbread nuggets at French Market.

Chicken salad on a croissant and jalapeno slaw at French Market.

Pasta Max Cafe – 50 Griffin Street, McDonough, GA. Pasta Max is closed on Sunday and Monday and only open for dinner on Saturday evening, but Tuesday through Friday, diners may enjoy lunch from 11:00 to 2:00 and dinner beginning at 4:00 p.m. There is a cozy, Italian trattoria vibe at this popular eatery. You are sure to find your favorite Italian entrees here, along with fresh salads and special desserts. On my next visit, I want to try Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie or Strawberry Sabayon.

Garlic rolls at Pasta Max.

Pasta dish at Pasta Max.

Queen Bee Coffee Company – 58 Griffin Street, McDonough — right across the street from Pasta Max Cafe. Like Pasta Max, Queen Bee is closed on Sunday and Monday, but Tuesday through Thursday you may enjoy coffee and house-baked treats from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Fridays from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. There is a pleasant outdoor seating area that is sure to be popular for the next 6 months. Queen Bee does coffee very, very well, and the pastries are decadent.

Kirby G’s Diner and Pub– 45 Macon Street, McDonough, GA. This is a fun 1950’s style diner with a burger voted Best Burger in Atlanta for several years in a row. Atlanta Eats, a website showcasing the best of the best that city has to offer, has featured Kirby G’s on numerous occasions. Everything on the menu is named after a term, movie star, song, movie, television show or popular phrase from the 1950’s. I was there for an afternoon ice cream treat, but I want to return soon for a full meal.

Ice cream treat at Kirby G’s.

Anne and Bill’s Restaurant – 1057 Main Street, Forest Park, GA. You might want to bookmark this comfort food eatery when you are on your way in or out of Henry and Clayton Counties, because it is closer into metro Atlanta, just a couple of miles off I-75. Anne and Bill’s is open for breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday and lunch only on Sunday. Think country cooking, and you’ll have it figured about right. The menu has pretty much all of the Southern favorites you’d expect. There is a large dining area, but the locals fill it up quickly. This place “screams” Baby Boomers and Church Senior Adult groups visiting attractions in the area. Get the picture?

Fried Green Tomatoes at Anne and Bill’s.

Fried catfish at Anne and Bill’s.

Roast beef and sides at Anne and Bill’s.

Banana pudding at Anne and Bill’s.

LEARNING FROM PASSIONATE PEOPLE — Jim Joyce, Heritage Park Veterans Museum, McDonough GA

04/13/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

It’s natural to be a little bit skeptical when you plan a visit to a Veterans Museum with a child. Will they be bored? Will they be squirmy and anxious to leave? Will they be only interested in the souvenir shop and vending machines? Of course, it very much depends on the personality of the child involved, but during a recent visit to McDonough, GA, it was obvious that having a passionate, entertaining guide with a gift for story-telling can make all the difference in the world.

Last week, my daughter Laura, granddaughter Megan and I spent two days exploring the many attractions in Henry and Clayton Counties just south of Atlanta. We found some great surprises, but one Megan has continued to talk about was our time at the Heritage Park Veterans Museum in McDonough.

Jim Joyce, who is the Head Curator for the museum, was our guide. What a privilege it was to spend time with him and to learn about this place which is clearly a labor of love where he eagerly volunteers.

When the museum opened on Veterans Day in 2010, Jim recalls that they had only “5 glass display cases, 9 mannequins and 15 uniforms.” Now it has grown to a collection of more than 20,000 pieces spanning every war from World War I to the present and includes the Medals of Honor bestowed on two Henry County natives.

Rather than focusing on various wars or battles within those wars, this museum and the team of veteran volunteers who make up the staff choose to focus instead on the stories of individual soldiers whose memorabilia and artifacts are on display. Heroes come to life in unforgettable ways. Everything in the museum was either donated directly or is on long-term loan, meaning that no county or state funds support the project.

Many of the staff members, like Jim, served in combat and had multiple deployments. Jim even mentioned in passing the number of times he had jumped out of airplanes — I believe it was over 300!!! These men are “the real deal.” If you want to see Jim in action for yourself, I would recommend a visit in person, but you can also visit the website or click here to see the short video that Jim narrates.

Jim described to us the three main purposes the museum serves:

It is a PLACE FOR LEARNING. Schools plan field trips to the museum, because it is such a great teaching facility.
It is a PLACE FOR REVERANCE. Families come because they have relatives whose belongings are on display, and they need a place to reflect and remember.
It is a PLACE FOR HEALING. Those who served in our military have sacrificed a LOT for the rest of us, but at the same time, they saw and experienced tragic events and circumstances that are etched painfully in their minds. It helps to realize they are not alone. This is a place where they can shed tears if they need to and talk with others who have the same pain.

Jim is a gifted teacher. I especially appreciated the way he took time to explain displays to my granddaughter so that she would really “get it.” As I quietly quizzed her during the tour, she could often quote Jim back word for word.

I appreciated so much seeing the following verse on the museum’s website — so very appropriate for the place and occasion.

2 Timothy 4:7 – “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

Thank you, Jim Joyce, and all of the veterans you represent for your service to our country.

“Gone With the Wind” Comes Back to Life in Jonesboro, GA

04/09/2018 By: CCPearson2 Comments

For lovers of Margaret Mitchell’s one and only novel — the epic narrative which became an American classic movie — Jonesboro, GA is a place you will want to put on your must-visit list. Jonesboro fully embraces the emphasis on the movie, as seen in this mural painted across the street from the railroad tracks.

Housed in the town’s 1867 Historic Train Depot, the Road to Tara Museum will inform and entertain you while reminding you of iconic scenes from “Gone With the Wind.” The Road to Tara Museum originally resided in Atlanta, but the Clayton County Tourism Authority purchased everything in it in 2000 and moved it to Jonesboro.

Fittingly, the Road to Tara Museum provides a look at the historical significance of the Battle of Jonesboro which took place over a two day period in the summer of 1864. When Jonesboro fell and the supply rail lines were cut, the path to Atlanta was straight for the Union troops, and Sherman could carry out his destructive “March to the Sea.” Margaret Mitchell was able to weave the story of that battle and more into her novel after hearing them when she visited her great-grandparents’ home in Clayton County during her childhood years.

Memorabilia from the movie’s 1939 premiere in Atlanta adorn the walls, and many artifacts, including costumes worn by the actors and actresses, are preserved and on display.

Some of my favorites showcase Hattie McDaniel, who received an Academy Award Oscar in 1940 for Best Supporting Actress, the first black actress to receive such a recognition.

A gift shop offers items that GWTW collectors will be eager to buy.

While you’re in the vicinity, be sure to schedule visits to Arts Clayton Gallery about a block away and Stately Oaks Plantation within a short drive. And, if you’re in the mood for a splurge, book a spa treatment at Scarlett’s Retreat Day Spa and Boutique in nearby McDonough.

Alabama Gulf Coast Discoveries: Part 2 – Let’s Eat

02/26/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

For those of us who visit the Alabama Gulf Coast often, we tend to return again and again to our tried-and-true eateries. There’s certainly nothing wrong with that, because the Orange Beach/Gulf Shores/Fort Morgan is full of outstanding cafes and restaurants. On a recent visit, however, I was determined to try some new places that all turned out to be outstanding. You might want to consider one or more of these in a future trip. Two for breakfast, two for lunch, two for dinner and two for calorie-laden vacation splurges.

BREAKFAST

(Both of these are likely on their way to becoming chains because the formula for success appears to be working very well. However, as of right now, there are only a handful of locations and all are in the Gulf Coast area — some as far away as New Orleans).

RUBY SLIPPER

Located at 24151 Perdido Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach, Ruby Slipper opens every morning at 8:00 a.m. to serve breakfast, brunch and lunch. The concept started in New Orleans. According to a plaque on the wall: “The Ruby Slipper Cafe was inspired by a powerful sense of homecoming when we returned to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. To be back with family and friends in the city we love, well . . . Dorothy said it best: ‘There’s no place like Home.’ We feel that gratitude every day for our home, New Orleans.”

That sense of love for New Orleans is reflected in the menu: Catfish and Grits, Grilled Fish “St. Peter,” Chicken St. Charles, Bananas Foster Pain Perdu and Bacon Praline Pancakes, to name a few. I was in the mood for a fairly “normal” breakfast when I visited, so I ordered the Southern Breakfast (eggs, applewood bacon, grits, a fried green tomato and a biscuit). Just LOOK at the size of that biscuit!!

Look at the size of that biscuit!

As the crowds flock to the beach, Ruby Slipper, right across the street from several large condominium complexes, will likely attract a crowd. Arrive early or wait to have a late brunch or lunch. You WON’T be alone.

BRICK AND SPOON

Brick and Spoon is located near The Wharf at 24705 Canal Road in Orange Beach. It is open 7 days a week from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., also for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Travel and Leisure included it on its list of “Top 10 Breakfasts in the U.S.” Wow! A pretty high endorsement, don’t you think?

By all means, get a side order of beignets. They will be smothered in powdered sugar (leave your black pants back in the condo) and accompanied by a seasonal marmalade. Steve had an omelet while I chose the Oyster Bed — Poached eggs on an English muffin with a slice of tomato with succulent fried oysters and pecan smoked bacon. Amazing! Where else can you get fried oysters, poached eggs and beignets for breakfast?

Beignets at Brick and Spoon.

Poached eggs and fried oysters — called The Oyster Bed – at Brick and Spoon.

Fluffy omelet at Brick and Spoon

LUNCH

(Both of these recommendations are very popular with the locals. They look quite unassuming from the outside but have great food served in a casual, back-home atmosphere inside).

KING NEPTUNE’S

King Neptune’s is located at 1137 Gulf Shores Parkway in Gulf Shores, very near Zoo Road and within sight of Waterville U.S.A. It is open 7 days a week from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with lunch specials ($4.95 to $8.95) every day from 11:00 – 2:00. Seafood is featured prominently on the menu, but non-seafood lovers can find burgers, sandwiches, steaks, chicken, pasta and a very reasonably-priced kids’ menu ($5.00 and $6.00). One of their made-in-house desserts is fried cheesecake. Sounds positively decadent, but I’ll need to wait until my cholesterol numbers are much, much lower.

Shriimp with boiled potatoes and corn at King Neptune’s

4-vegetable plate at King Neptune’s.

We were extremely happy to find a half-price special on raw oysters the day we were there. The ones we were served were what I call “2-bite oysters” because they were so plump and juicy you couldn’t get them down with just one slurp. Ha! (Apologies to those who just can’t see the allure of raw oysters).

Raw oysters at King Neptune’s

DOC’S SEAFOOD SHACK AND OYSTER BAR

Locals flock to Doc’s for lunch. That’s no surprise when you see the vast menu selections and the huge portions! Shrimp, oysters, burgers, hot dogs, soft shell crabs — you name it. Doc’s will even let you create your own platter choosing 2, 3 or 4 from 8 different seafood and chicken options. A very special touch found at Doc’s is “U-Catch-Em. We Cook Em!” In other words, if you’ve been wetting your hook in the surf or the bay, or if you had good luck during one of the many fishing charters running every day, then just bring your haul to Doc’s. The cooks will fry your fish and serve them with the normal fixings for only $13.99 per person.

Shrimp salad at Doc’s

Ribs plus 3 sides, cornbread and roll at Doc’s.

Popcorn shrimp at Doc’s.

You can find Doc’s Seafood Shack at 26029 Canal Road in Orange Beach, and it opens every day at 11:00 for lunch and dinner. Don’t look for a sleek modern eatery. Doc’s has been in business since 1984. They proudly proclaim that “flip-flops are welcome.”

DINNER

BILL’S BY THE BEACH

Located at 300 West Beach Boulevard in Gulf Shores, the upstairs dining room at Bill’s By the Beach has a great view of the Gulf to enjoy while you dine, so you might want to time your visit to arrive before sundown. Monday through Thursday, Bill’s opens at 11:00 to serve its lunch guests, but on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, you can arrive at 9:00 a.m. for brunch. The owner is Bill Henry, and the culinary magician is Chef Rudy Rudolph. Chef Rudy placed in the Top Ten of the Chef competition in the World Food Championships held in Orange Beach last November. He knows how to prepare seafood very well, but according to our server and some reviews I’ve read, he also is a wizard with steaks.

View of the Gulf from the dining room at Bill’s By the Beach.

Bill’s offers an Early Bird menu Monday-Friday for under $10.00.

Steve and I shared the 4 Cheese/Spinach/Artichoke/Blue Crab appetizer and the Wild American Shrimp Platter with sides of gouda grits and a glazed sweet potato. Both were outstanding!! The tomato jam drizzled on top of the cheese dip was a special surprise. So good.

4 cheese, spinach, artichoke, blue crab appetizer at Bill’s By the Beach

Shrimp, gouda grits and glazed sweet potato at Bill’s By the Beach.

VILLAGIO GRILLE

Villagio Grille is at 4790 Main Street at The Wharf in Orange Beach. It opens every day at 11:00 for lunch and dinner but also serves Sunday brunch from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Cuisine is described as Italian fusion. Guests may order appetizers, sandwiches, steaks or seafood, but they also offer “flats,” which are pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven right in view for diners to watch.

Wood-fired oven at Villagio Grille

We were in the mood for something extra special. Steve chose the night’s special — Blackened Grouper with Bacon, Spinach Gnocchi — and I order the Brown Butter Group with Truffle Mashed Potatoes and Squash Succotash.

For dessert, we shared a slice of Florida Orange Cake, one of the newest desserts on the menu. It consists of 5 luscious layers with cream cheese frosting and a strawberry coulis. We had enough to share and STILL took half of it home with us.

5-layer Florida Orange Cake at Villagio Grille

SWEET VACATION BONUSES

When you’re at the beach, enjoying all of the luxuries of a vacation, you might just want to plan one extra-special, calorie-laden, visual-masterpiece for dessert at THE YARD MILKSHAKE BAR, 3800 Gulf Shores Parkway (#330 in Pelican Place), Gulf Shores, AL. They have a large selection of ice creams that can be made into all kinds of edible works of art. Check out The Turtle, one of their milkshake specialties. This is the pint-size and is most definitely shareable. You even get to keep the jar. 🙂

The Turtle, specialty shake at The Yard Milkshake Bar in Gulf Shores.

And if you need “just a little something sweet” to give you a burst of energy, stop into the Chocolate Corner at 200 West Fort Morgan Road in Gulf Shores.

Chocolate Corner in Gulf Shores

Chocolate makes everything better. 🙂

Alabama’s Gulf Coast is calling your name. Make your plans to visit SOON!!

5 Ways Captiva Island Will Captivate You

02/05/2018 By: CCPearson4 Comments

With a total geographical area of a mere 10.5 square miles and a year-round population of only 379, you may wonder what makes Captiva Island such a special destination. I want to assure you that it is worth the airfare to RSW (Fort Myers airport), the rental car to drive an hour further and the $6.00 toll fee to access the impressive bridge connecting the land mass of the State of Florida with the sister islands of Sanibel and Captiva. Once you are on the islands, you will not want to leave.

SUMMERTIME WHEN THE CALENDAR SAYS WINTER. Winter in Alabama has been brutal this year. Yet, on Captiva Island, we had 70-degree balmy breezes and blue skies. We arrived during a relatively quiet lull in activity, but locals assured us the place would be in high gear from the first week in February until Memorial Day. Snowbirds regularly spend six months of the year flocking to Captiva and Sanibel. About the only months of the year that are NOT suggested for visits are August and September. During those months, it is hot, hot, hot, the mosquitoes love it, and many businesses take a break.
SERENITY. Bird-watchers, fishermen, and boaters will be thrilled with the environment. Nature abounds in the conditions found on the island. Nearby J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Sanctuary is a first-class educational facility for learning more about the wildlife and the many varieties of birds. It is SO peaceful. Golf carts and bicycles are more numerous than cars, so the noise pollution is practically non-existent.
SEAFOOD. Oh, my. Don’t worry about finding wonderful food in such a small place. There are lots of delicious choices with wide menus. Steve and I wanted seafood, and we were able to find it for lunch, dinner, and even breakfast. But, you can also find steak, chicken and vegetarian choices if you’d prefer. One word for fellow Southerners who visit — don’t look for sweet tea or many items that are fried. This island will help you with your attempts to be more healthy. In addition to the fish, you’ll find lots of fruit/veggies and flat trails and streets for walking.
SUNSETS. On a particularly beautiful late afternoon, we joined several dozen folks who gathered at the end of Captiva Road to watch the sun go down. The spectacle didn’t disappoint. In the last few minutes, the colors grew spectacular while seagulls and pelicans dove for their supper. When the sun finally disappeared below the horizon, the spectators broke out in spontaneous, respectful applause and then walked quietly away.
SEASHELLS. Without a doubt, this is the lure that draws me to the area. The number and quantity of seashells are unmatched in any other place I’ve ever visited. I would particularly recommend Bowman’s Beach (slightly across the bridge into Sanibel) and Turner Beach (right past Blind Pass at the Sanibel end of Captiva). In both of these places, you have to pay $5.00 per hour to park. When (not if but when) I return, I will spend lots of time on Turner Beach with a shovel, a net and plenty of shell-capturing tools.

Here are some websites to begin your own research for a future visit (click on each name): Captiva Island Inn (where we stayed), Keylime Bistro, RC Otter’s Island Eats, Old Captiva House, The Bubble Room and Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille where we ate.

Beauty in Brokenness

02/02/2018 By: CCPearson3 Comments

Thirty years ago, I was borderline obsessed with seashells. My husband and children will testify to the truth of that statement. I researched and found that Sanibel Island near Fort Myers, FL was one of the best shelling beaches in the world. I found an affordable resort on the beach where we could stay and booked a trip for all five of us. The kids were fine with it. They just wanted to build sand castles and swim in the resort pool. Steve just wanted warm, sunny days and maybe a place to throw out a fishing line. But, me? I wanted to find as many seashells as humanly possible in the days we were there. I dug in the sand, and I waded out into “the deep.” Well, it was deep for me, because I can’t swim. Whenever I could persuade Steve and the kids, they put on goggles and searched with me. We found hundreds and hundreds of shells, enough to discard those that weren’t absolutely perfect. We even went live shelling. Remember this was before such a thing became illegal in Florida. As a result, we had some of the prize specimens: horse conchs, worm shells, alphabet cones, angel wings, sundials, turkey wings, fighting conchs, pear whelks and Scotch bonnets, to name a few. Oh, how I wish I could find the various crafts I made with many of them, but, alas, too many moves have occurred during the intervening thirty years.

Last week, Steve and I had a chance to go back to the area, this time to Captiva Island which is attached to the end of Sanibel by a short bridge. There was much I wanted to explore for my travel and food writing, but we were able to squeeze in a few hours of shelling on three different beaches. I was struck by the differences in what I saw as beautiful and “keepable” on this last visit.

Treasures freshly washed onto the shoreline on Captiva Island.

I spotted many gorgeous PIECES, shells that had once been highly prized and wondrously shaped that didn’t quite make it to the shore unscathed. I grabbed several dozen as they rolled through the surf, cleaned them up and brought them home.

Broken shells from Captiva Island.

They represent something important to me. I am not the same person I was thirty years ago. I have been broken at times by life’s circumstances, and my body is certainly more broken that it was in my younger days. Many of my friends have recently been facing all kinds of brokennesses in their lives, as well — loss of a child, knee and hip replacements, open heart surgeries, divorces, deaths of spouses, harsh cancer diagnoses and treatments, unwanted changes in their living situations, etc. etc.

As I was searching the Scriptures and pondering why I found these broken shells so beautiful, I ran across these words by Debbie McDaniel in Crosswalk.com:

“Here is truth. Just because we’ve been broken doesn’t mean that we are thrown away. Just because we’ve been broken doesn’t mean that we are un-usable, set up on a shelf. Just because we’ve been broken doesn’t mean that we are forgotten.

Brokenness has the power, unlike anything else, to bring forth new beauty, strength, and inspiration to others. Because it’s often in those moments that we’ve tasted deep suffering, that we noticed, we were made for more. There’s more. There’s purpose.

The scars of life, the healed wounds, the deep lines, they all have stories to tell. . . .” Read the entire blog post here.

I believe that God still sees me as beautiful, usable and strong, and He sees my friends the same way. Fellow broken people reading this, be encouraged.

(Verses in the New King James Version)

Psalm 73:26 – “My flesh and my heart fail; but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.”

Psalm 147:3 – “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

Isaiah 66:1-2 – “Thus says the Lord: ‘Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest?

For all those things My hand has made, and all those things exist,’ says the Lord. ‘But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.’ “

Stay tuned for more thoughts about seashells next week.

Culture and Entertainment in LaGrange GA — Museums to Waterslides with so much in between

01/22/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Whether you are going to cheer on the Auburn Tigers for a football or basketball weekend, or maybe you’ve spent a day or two at Callaway Gardens and have a few more days of vacation, or perhaps you want to escape the pandemonium of Atlanta’s traffic for awhile — may I suggest planning a day or more in LaGrange, GA. This town with a population of slightly more than 30,000 will startle you with its variety of cultural attractions and its entertainment possibilities.

Folks who claim LaGrange as their hometown are serious about the historical significance of their heritage. That is evident to visitors as soon as you ride into the downtown square. The focal point is a statue of General Marquis de LaFayette surrounded by a fountain. The story goes that when General LaFayette visited this land in Georgia, he remarked to General Troup (for whom the county is named) that it reminded him of his estate in France, an estate he called LaGrange.

LaFayette statue in the center of LaGrange.

The Legacy Museum on Main contains many artifacts and murals depicting life in LaGrange since its beginning. A fascinating display features the life and accomplishments of Horace King, a man who was born a slave but earned his freedom by becoming a master bridge builder. A replica of one of his covered bridges using a Lattice Truss design is on display. In the Legacy Museum you will also hear of the “Nancy Harts,” a group of women whose efforts convinced the Yankee invaders to spare homes in LaGrange from being burned to the ground during the Civil War.

Display in the Legacy Museum.

Replica of a Horace King designed bridge.

The LaGrange Art Museum, a few blocks away at 112 Lafayette Parkway, is housed in a Victorian-style jail built in 1892. The building itself is an interesting work of art but so are the 440 pieces collected inside, many of which emphasize American Southern art.

Also in the downtown area, you will find a state-of-the-art movie theater complex, many antique stores, clothing and gift boutiques and the Sweetland Amphitheatre at Boyd Park. During the winter, Sweetland becomes a popular family ice rink, but throughout the year, it is a 2500-seat concert venue. In the past, Willie Nelson, The Temptations and The Charlie Daniels Band have appeared with many other headliners in the works for this coming summer. A look backstage at the pre- and post-concert digs for performers made me wish I could be in such a band . . . at least for a day or so. 🙂

Sweetland Amphitheater in Boyd Park.

Sweetland Ice Rink.

Green room backstage at Sweetland Amphitheater.

Vintage decor in a Sweetland Amphitheater green room.

Quirky decor in the green room at Sweetland.

A couple of interesting art and culture-related facts associated with LaGrange:

LaGrange has more Andy Warhol prints per capita of any town or city in the United States, thanks to the collection of Wesley and Missy Cochran.
MOST LIKELY the song that was sung to us as children and we have always sung to our children “You Are My Sunshine” was written by LaGrange native Oliver Hood in the 1930s. And, speaking of music, when you plan your trip to LaGrange, be sure to check the website for the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra. (Yes, this town of 30,000 has an orchestra!). You might be lucky enough to get tickets to one of their performances. The next one on the calendar will be on March 20th.

BIG NEWS for LaGrange is the upcoming opening of GREAT WOLF LODGE GEORGIA, scheduled for summer of 2018. This will be a world-class resort with 500,000 square feet of entertainment, dining and lodging options and will showcase a 93,000 square foot water park. LaGrange will be on everyone’s radar once that happens.

Have I enticed you to seek out LaGrange, GA? I truly hope so. And, by the way, a gorgeous new Courtyard by Marriott opened in the town square in mid-December of 2017. The rooms and amenities are topnotch, and the location is perfect for exploring everything I’ve described in this post.

Brand new Courtyard by Marriott in LaGrange, GA

I told you previously about some great restaurants in town, and about Hills and Dales Estate and the Biblical History Center. You’re all set. Enjoy your trip!

Most Popular Posts and Favorite Articles from 2017

01/01/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Happy New Year, Everyone!

I’ve been looking back over my 104 blog posts from 2017 and thought you might enjoy revisiting some of the most popular ones. Here are the six that received more than 1000 viewers. The first one on this list was seen by 3470 people — a record for me, but not surprising considering the subject. Click on each line to read the post.

Also, in 2017, I had 54 articles published outside my blog about destinations we visited and enjoyed. I’m pretty proud of that fact, considering that it occurred WHILE life was happening at a fast and furious pace — major surgery, selling our home/packing/moving/starting construction on a new house, welcoming a new grandchild, etc.

Places we saw this year were primarily in the Southeast with the notable exceptions of Alaska and Port Townsend, Washington. Here are 10 main places we visited during the year and at least one article about each one. Just click on the links to read them.

Auburn, AL, “Loveliest Village on the Plains.” We were there for Steve’s 45th veterinary school reunion and for a football game showcasing our beloved Auburn Tigers. Here is an article about the Hotel at Auburn University published in Trip101.com.
Cincinnati, Ohio. “Four Ingredients for a Memorial Weekend in Cincinnati” in ShortWeeks-LongWeekends.com.
Shaker Village near Harrodsburg, KY. “Abundant History in the Heart of Kentucky – Harrodsburg/Mercer County” in ShortWeeks-LongWeekends.com.
Lexington, KY. “Lexington KY: Horses, History and Hot Browns” in MilesGeek.com.
Charleston, SC. “Slightly North of Broad – S.N.O.B. – Excellent Charleston Restaurant Without a Hint of Arrogance” in MilesGeek.com.
Alaska – Anchorage, Denali National Park and a cruise from Whittier to Vancouver. “Hotel Captain Cook in the Heart of Anchorage, Alaska” in Trip101.com.
Port Townsend, WA (a couple of hours and a ferry ride from Seattle). “Old Consulate Inn and Port Townsend WA: A Perfect Match” in MilesGeek.com.
Maggie Valley and Waynesville, N.C. “Frogs Leap Public House: Upscale Farm to Fork in North Carolina” in TheYums.com.
Orange Beach, AL for the 2017 World Food Championships. “World Food Championships Bring Food Fight to Orange Beach” in EdibleLowerAlabama.com.
LaGrange, GA. I just returned in mid-December, so I haven’t had my articles published yet, but here’s the blog post that appeared on Christmas Day. “Hills and Dales Estate in LaGrange GA: All Dressed Up for Christmas“

Now 2018 is here, and my travel schedule is quickly filling up. I can’t wait to share many more destinations with you in the coming months.

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