All it takes is a warm autumn day and the feet start itching for a country drive, some hot apple cider, and incredible views of colorful leaves at the height of their beauty. Growing up and living in the north, fall was always accompanied by a stop at a pumpkin patch to choose your own, or even …
Explore the American South | Travel Stories & Destinations
Warm breezes, rich traditions, and soulful landscapes define the American South. From beaches to bayous, this region invites connection and reflection.
Smith Mountain Lake Camping
You'll find Smith Mountain Lake camping at Smith Mountain Lake State Park and at three or four other private campgrounds around the lake. The first time I heard about Smith Mountain Lake, I knew I wanted to see it. Smith Mountain Lake is the second largest lake in Virginia with 500 miles of …
Big Bend National Park is Worth the Effort
Big Bend National Park is worth the effort to get there. I crossed the border into Texas, and for the first time since departing Virginia, I was in a new state. One I hadn’t been to before. The Lone Star State The Longhorn State The biggest state I planned to cross on this trip. I …
From Here to Laredo
What I came to realize is that fear, that’s the worst of it. That’s the real enemy. So, get up, get out in the real world and you kick that bastard as hard you can right in the teeth. Walter, Breaking Bad I left Mustang Island and drove straight to Lake Casa Blanca International State …
Taking a Bite Out of Positive Thinking
I began to listen to Abraham-Hicks for daily motivation many years ago. If you’ve heard of Abraham Hicks, you’ll either love her or think the entire concept is odd. I am in both camps. Regardless of the oddity surrounding the source of the Law of Attraction lessons, I still believe the message …
What to Eat & Do Near Mustang Island
There's only so much beach time one can handle, right? Okay, maybe some of us never tire of the beach, but there is lots to do in and around Mustang Island aside from beach time! Since I work Monday to Friday and the occasional weekend, it’s challenging for me to do everything that’s offered …






