 The Wharf on Jekyll Island, Georgia is a fully reimagined restaurant that features open-air dining. The interior is colorful and inviting and the food and service was top shelf. My wonderful host took me there during the day when the views on the pier were extraordinary. And I'm told this popular destination is the ideal spot to witness the island’s best sunsets.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  I'm starting this Georgia On My Mind photo series with this image of Jekyll Island because it is so peaceful. And Heaven knows we could all use a little more peace in our lives. I think you'll find it fitting that such diverse artists sang these words about this place - "Still in peaceful dreams I see that the road leads back to you".
Ray Charles, "Georgia On My Mind" < link to song Contents Books Home Hire Stories  Georgia is not only peaceful, but it is whimsical and playful too. Evidence of that is the Jekyll Island Club Resort. It looks like a fantasy castle from another era and has timeless croquet players dressed in vintage white. And speaking of "timeless", Willie Nelson has a great rendition of the famous state song.
Willie Nelson, "Georgia On My Mind" < link to song Contents Books Home Hire Stories  In addition to its breathtaking beauty, there's an inherent heartfelt kindness that resides in Saint Simons Island, Georgia. The quaint coastal town is home to The Island Newcomers Club which welcomes new residents to the community. And St. Simons has the 100 Women Who Care and 100 Men Who Give organizations that seeks out and blesses worthy charities.
Steve Winwood And Eric Clapton, "Georgia On My Mind" < link to song Contents Books Home Hire Stories  The Saint Simons Pier is steeped in Southern tradition. Its the kind of place kids come to fish, musicians gather to play, and lovers stroll hand in hand. It is a focal point of St. Simons and just one more beautiful reason Georgia stays on my mind - and apparently on the minds of these legendary rockers.
Led Zepplin, "Georgia On My Mind" < link to song Contents Books Home Hire Stories  I came upon these rocking chairs while walking along the coast of Saint Simons Island, Georgia. The caption that came to mind was the title of the seminal song, Abraham, Martin and John.
James Brown, "Georgia On My Mind" < link to song Contents Books Home Hire Stories  As the sun set on my visit to St. Simons, I couldn't help but think about the Georgia On My Mind lyrics - "Still in peaceful dreams I see that the road leads back to you". It is my hope that in seeing Georgia presented in this series, I was able to share some of those peaceful dreams with you. And hopefully, the road will lead us back to this magnificent place.
Kelly Clarkston, "Georgia On My Mind" < link to song Contents Books Home Hire Stories  When two awesome Gal Pals from my Wyandotte, MI Roosevelt High School days suggested we meet up for some hiking, sightseeing, dancing and socializing in beautiful Alexandria, Virginia, I was all in. We started off by meeting some fun friends at the gorgeous Jula's restaurant overlooking portions of Old Town on the Potomac River waterfront.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  Old Town in Alexandria, Virginia is a nationally designated historic district on the Potomac River. The beloved area is filled with parks, walking paths, shopping, art, dining and other attractions that make it feel welcoming. And as you can tell by these images, the waterfront is very diverse and colorful.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  One thing you quickly realize when visiting Alexandria, Virginia is the massive impact George Washington had. He was not only the first President of the United States, he was also a very successful businessman. The George Washington's Distillery was founded in 1799 and became one of the largest whiskey distilleries in America. It is still operational today and the public is welcome for tours.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  The American Horticultural Society’s River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia is a historic 25-acre property which was part of George Washington's original farmland. The free-to-tour site sits on a beautiful four-acre meadow along the Potomac River. It features an elegant manor house, children’s gardens and colorful flower displays.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  Mount Vernon, Virginia is the plantation home of George Washington, a Founding Father, commander of the Continental Army, and first president of the United States. It sits on 500 acres on the Potomac River. including the mansion and 30 other buildings. Mount Vernon is the most-visited historic home in the United States.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  While researching the gorgeous Mount Vernon, Virginia, I learned a few interesting things about George Washinton. First, he never chopped down a cherry tree and said "I can not tell a lie" when confronted. Secondly, he did not have wooden teeth. Thirdly, he loved to dance. And fourthly, he had a good sense of humor. So, I think he would have appreciated the two parodies about him shown here and here.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria, Virginia is for the birds! And for all those who love them. The 1,500-acre breathtaking forested and open wetland area is a bird watcher's paradise. The "birders" range from locals using cell phone cameras to international travelers using elite image stabilizing camera bodies and telephoto lenses. But what they all share in common is a profound respect and affection for the many species in the gorgeous refuge.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  Del Ray is a vibrant section of Alexandria, Virginia that is comprised of independent shops and terrific restaurants. We had the chance to sample the excellent fare at Del Ray Cafe. Further along Mount Vernon Avenue we spotted the cleverly named "Piece Out", which is a popular Italian American Kitchen.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  When you stroll down Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray, you can't help but be cheerfully impacted by all the dynamic color. It is as if this section of Alexandria, Virginia is designed to make your day even brighter. And no matter whether you come for the renowned food or fun activities, you are sure to have a very colorful experience.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  We went dancing at Pete's Tavern in Springfield, Virginia. I loved how lead guitarist Doug Belford found a creative workaround to play while hugging on his wife, Bonny Beebe Belford. When they aren't literally embracing the music, the couple promotes three terrific bands - the Doug Belford Experience, The Magic Trio and Smylin' Jack. To see more photos, see the Musician's section on my Photo Galleries page here.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories   Sometimes I get to blend my passion for travel with my love for animals. And such is the case for this part of my "My Way" 2025 road trip because I get to pet sit for these two beauties while I explore more of the Catskills. Bitsy (top) is a Biewer Terrier who is intelligent and loves to cuddle. Pippa is a mini Bernedoodle from The Pink Doghouse who is very affectionate and smart as a whip. For more photos, see my Pet Pals page here.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  The Woodstock Way Groovy Eatery is located just minutes from the popular Bethel Woods Center For The Arts - the site of the legendary 1969 weekend concert. So, it is no surprise that the Woodstock Way's nostalgic theme was inspired by that epic event. However, what was an "udder" surprise was the colorful cow who immediately put me in a good mooooo-d.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  In my previous post about Woodstock Way Groovy Eatery, I touched on how well the ambiance represents the epic Woodstock concert of 1969. Simply put, it transports you back to a nostalgic era of "peace and love". However, I'd be remiss in not mentioning Woodstock Way's best kept secret - the gorgeous back patio overlooking the Mongaup River.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  One of the great things about road tripping in the Catskills is discovering classic throwbacks like Fair Oaks Drive-in in Middletown, NY. This active two screen theater shows contemporary movies, but has a nostalgic vibe. It's perfect for families on a budget, younger people wanting a unique experience, and older folks who want to recall fond memories.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  There is something different about Wurtsboro, New York. Sure, there are great stores to shop, parks to appreciate, restaurants to enjoy, etc. But a lot of towns have those things. What makes Wurtsboro different is the people. People like Cameron and Gia from The Coffee Way Cafe who go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. And people like the townsfolk who honor their heritage, but work together to create an exciting future.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  Another thing that sets Wurtsboro, New York apart is that it is intentionally colorful. In fact, the town is so committed to having a distinct, vibrant look that they literally encourage artists to "Paint The Town". In addition, Wurtsboro hosts lots of music performances, street fairs, and special events to add even more color to their residents and visitors' lives.
Contents Books Home Hire Stories  In a word, Bashakill Vineyards in Wurtsboro, New York is stunning. This plush, hidden gem is home to spectacular wines and a sumptuous menu. The grounds are visually captivating and the staff treats you like family. And if that weren't enough, it also has an impressive lineup of live entertainment. So, if you feel like treating yourself to a visual, culinary and auditory delight, visit the stunning Bashakill Vineyards.
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