This classic movie covers moments in American history and was filmed throughout the country and primarily in the South and California. Forrest Gump is, in his mother's words, "special." His friendship with neighbor Jenny is the only constant in his life. He goes on to receive a football scholarship to the University of Alabama, play professional ping pong, fight in the … [Read more...] about Film Friday: Forrest Gump
Visiting Elvis Presley’s Graceland
Any trip to Memphis, Tennessee would not be complete without a stop at Graceland, the lavish home of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi but moved to Memphis and made it his home when he rose to fame. His family and friends were welcomed here, often staying in his guest rooms and taking advantage of the horses and golf carts on … [Read more...] about Visiting Elvis Presley’s Graceland
Visiting the Old New Orleans Rum Distillery
On a visit to New Orleans, my friend and I were looking for something to do before our late-night bus home. She did some research on her phone and found a distillery on Frenchman Street, where we were staying. Obviously, we had to check it out. The nice folks at Celebration Distilling, the company behind Old New Orleans Rum, picked us up from the French Quarter, driving us … [Read more...] about Visiting the Old New Orleans Rum Distillery
The Most Important Civil Rights Landmarks in the South
Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.– Martin Luther King Jr. The legacy of the Civil Rights Movement is found throughout the Southern states, now documented on the official US Civil Rights Trail. There are both museums and experiences where you can learn about the movement and landmarks where … [Read more...] about The Most Important Civil Rights Landmarks in the South
Film Friday: Big Fish
Big Fish is a Southern Gothic tale directed by one of my favorite directors, Tim Burton. Billy Crudup plays a son trying to learn the true stories about his father, played by Albert Finney and Ewan McGregor, instead of the tall tales he's heard all his life. But what he discovers is that the stories are more real than he knew. It creates flashbacks between Edward Bloom's … [Read more...] about Film Friday: Big Fish