Road Trip to the Blues: Why Clarksdale Is Always Worth the Drive

I’ve always felt lucky living just one state over from Mississippi! It makes it easy to slip away for a trip that feels like stepping into another world. And if there’s one place that captures that feeling perfectly, it’s Clarksdale, Mississippi.

In the heart of the Delta, about 75 miles south of Memphis, Clarksdale sits right at the famous crossroads of Highways 61 and 49. But it’s more than just a dot on the map: it’s a place with a vibe all its own. The moment you arrive, you can feel it: the music, the stories, the slightly rough-around-the-edges charm that makes everything feel real and alive.

Vic Barbieri, craftsman of the original Blues Crossroads sign, is pictured here at the
Cruzn the Crossroads Car and Truck Show with a replica of the original sign –
located at the site where bluesman Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul to
the devil in exchange for musical talent. | Credit: Rory Doyle

For anyone who loves music, this place hits differently. Clarksdale is about as close as you can get to the birthplace of the Blues, and that legacy isn’t just history - it’s everywhere! You hear it drifting out of juke joints, echoing from street corners, and filling the air seven nights a week. This is also where the legendary crossroads story lives on, tied to Robert Johnson and the myth of trading his soul for musical greatness. Whether you believe the story or not, standing there gives you chills.

Chasing Greatness at 3 A.M.: Watching Arda Saatçi Push Human Limits

There’s a certain kind of madness that only makes sense in the middle of the night.

The kind where you tell yourself, “Just ten more minutes,” and suddenly it’s 3:47 a.m., your room is completely dark except for the glow of a livestream, and you’re emotionally invested in a man running through the California desert like sleep is optional.

That is me this week watching Arda Saatçi during his current “Cyborg Season” run - a brutal 600-kilometer challenge from Death Valley to Santa Monica in just 96 hours. You can watch the live stream HERE!

And somehow, even through the exhaustion, the silence, and the absurdity of staying awake for someone else’s suffering, I couldn’t stop watching.

Because Arda doesn’t just run.

I Need Your Vote: Help Me Share My Art With the World (and Johnny Depp)

I’m so excited (and honestly still a little in disbelief) to share that I’ve been selected for the first round of Johnny Depp’s The People’s Artist Project. Out of so many talented creatives, my work was chosen to move forward, and now the next step depends on community support.

This project is about giving artists a platform and helping new voices be seen. Through public voting, artists have the chance to move through the competition and earn incredible opportunities that could truly change the direction of their creative journey.

If I’m fortunate enough to continue advancing, the rewards go far beyond recognition. Winners have the opportunity to display their artwork at The Art of Elysium’s Salon, appear in Artforum Magazine, and receive a $25,000 prize.

For me, this isn’t just about a contest.

Northshore Trails Offer Diverse Outdoor Activities

Photo by: Kevin Garrett

If you’re into hiking like I am (check out my 20-mile Mammoth March recap HERE), or you prefer exploring on two wheels, Louisiana might be a place to add to your adventure list. Living right on the Arkansas–Louisiana border, I get the best of both worlds—and I can wholeheartedly recommend taking the time to visit. There are plenty of places to explore, scenic routes to enjoy, and of course, incredible food waiting for you around every corner. And if you can time your trip just right… it might even be crawfish season.

Outstanding biking, hiking and nature trails lead to Louisiana’s Northshore adventure

The Northshore is known as a welcoming destination and an easy escape. For those who love to hit the trail, it’s the perfect escape for a variety of activities. Just 40 minutes north of New Orleans, halfway between Baton Rouge and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the communities of the Northshore are home to trails that attract cyclists, nature lovers and those who just want to get out and enjoy the diversity and beauty of region. In addition, some find the Southern hospitality and Louisiana cuisine sometimes make it a difficult place to leave.

The 31-mile Tammany Trace is a main attraction for cyclists and runners from throughout the region and beyond. This Hall of Fame Rails-to-Trails multi-use path connects Northshore communities which give visitors plenty of reasons to stop and stay a while. The trail stretches from downtown Covington through Abita Springs, Mandeville and Lacombe, and ends in Slidell. The Tammany Trace gives users stretches of trail with a feeling of being a world away. Yet the scenic route is dotted with a host of farmers markets, playgrounds, a wildlife refuge, breweries, nearby Lake Pontchartrain’s beaches and more, making it a choose-your-own-adventure experience.

Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (61389 Highway 434, Lacombe, Louisiana 70445; 985-882-2000) encompasses more than 18,000 acres of pine flatwoods, coastal marshes and other diverse habitats. Hundreds of native and migratory bird species can be seen among the fresh and brackish marshes, bayous and forested lands. The half-mile long Boy Scout Road Boardwalk Trail is a family-friendly wooden boardwalk that provides marsh views and interpretive signs that highlight the natural history of the area. Turtles and a variety of birds are popular sights and in spring, the Louisiana iris blooms along the roadside in wet areas. Beyond the boardwalk, the Boy Scout Road Trail offers a four-mile out and back hike on a gravel and dirt path that travels from pine savannah, past a marsh overlook and old oak trees to the edge of Bayou Lacombe. The endangered red-cockaded woodpecker is a favorite sighting here in spring and summer. The half-mile Camilia Trail begins near the Visitor Center and winds past a small wetland to a cavern containing an artesian spring, as well as to an overlook of Bayou Lacombe.

There are also hiking and nature trails in the beautiful 2,800-acre Fontainebleau State Park (62883 Highway 1089, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-624-4443). Sprawling on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, this historic park offers beautiful lake views and 2,800 acres of habitat to explore. Established in 1942, this is the most visited state park in the state. Among its amenities are a section of the Tammany Trace trail, in addition to a 1.25-mile nature trail, complete with interpretive signage, and a nearly five-mile hiking trail. Bordered on three sides by water–Lake Pontchartrain, Bayou Cane and Bayou Castine–the park’s variety of ecosystems and habitats are home to more than 400 species of native animals. For those with mobility issues who want to get out and explore the trails, an all-terrain track wheelchair is available.

Set on 400 acres of preserved pine and hardwood forest along Bayou Castine, Northlake Nature Center (23135 Highway 190, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-626-1238) offers more than eight miles of hiking and biking trails, a raised boardwalk and scenic overlooks. The trails extend through a variety of ecosystems and are complemented by interpretive signage and outdoor classrooms. The site also includes areas of cultural interest and archaeological importance.

For those who prefer mountain biking, Bogue Chitto State Park (17049 State Park Boulevard, Franklinton, Louisiana 70438; 985-839-5707) has 25 miles of trails offering adventure and excitement for bikers of all skill levels. The dual slalom, wall rides and Tower of Terror jump are just a few of the many exciting features. There is also a skills course and two pump tracks for adult and young riders. The park also has equestrian trails open to riders who bring their own horses. In addition, Bogue Chitto Horse Rentals (985-516-4975) offers public and private guided rides and provides horses and all equipment. The park, which also has a seven-mile nature trail, is said to be located amid some of the most interesting topography of southern Louisiana, with the trail head located near Fricke’s Cave.

Splendor Farms B&B and Trail Riding Facility (27329 Mill Creek Road, Bush, Louisiana 70431; 985-886-3747) is a beautiful farm that offers horseback trail rides in addition to a host of other amenities and activities. Guided rides take guests through creeks and woods, across grassy fields and around lakes.

If you go

Brooks’ Bike Shop (416 East Gibson Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-237-3658) rents bikes, skateboards and more. They also offer guided tours through historic areas of Covington and Mandeville, a tour of St. Tammany’s four breweries and a tour of cool places off the beaten path along the Tammany Trace. Bike and skateboard sales and service are also offered here and at their second location, Brooks Bikes/Trikes & Beyond (128 Girod Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-789-5037).

For bike repairs and new bike sales, The Bike Path (2641 Florida Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-674-3254) is a rider-owned shop that offers knowledgeable service and advice.

O’Wheelies Bicycle Company (639 Girod Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-629-4211) sells and rents a variety of equipment for enjoying the trails, from a variety of cruisers to e-bikes, along with skateboards, skates, pit vipers and more.

Experiential Father's Day Getaways

Happy Monday!

Now that we've made it through Mother's Day, it's about time to get ready for Father's Day, so I want to share two great ideas for experiential getaways in Michigan!

Below are more details, but first a photo:

Hej Fellow Remote Workers! Visit Sweden for an Out of Office Office Experience!

I've been working remotely since March 17th 2020, and I feel blessed and lucky to have a profession and work a job that makes it possible to get my projects done from anywhere in the world - granted I have my laptop and a stable internet connection.

A study and initiative from Sweden makes me kind of jealous though. Don't get me wrong, my back porch or local coffee shop in southern Arkansas is fine and dandy, but can it really compete with the landscape and temperatures in Sweden?

Photo credit: Tina Stafrén/Visit Sweden

Sweden’s New Initiative ‘Out of Office Office’ Offers Remote Workers Offices in Nature

(If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure) 

Sweden now encourages workers to bag-check their remote setup and have an unforgettable workcation in accommodations close to nature without compromising on internet connectivity. In a newly conducted case study, well-being increased by 22% as participants felt less depressed and more calm, harmonious and happy when working and living close to nature. Through the Out of Office Office initiative, Sweden hopes to boost workers’ mental health in a time where remote working increasingly is taking a toll on many people’s well-being.

Travel Tuesday: Visit the Onsen in the Setouchi Region, Japan

Traveling to Japan is definitely on my bucket list. I'm a huge fan of Sharla from Sharmeleon/Sharla in Japan, Chris from Abroad in Japan (sliiiight crush on him. thanks British accent), and of course Norm form Tokyo Lens. Experiencing this beautiful country through their eyes/lenses gives me a bad case of Wanderlust. 

Last week Japan's Setouchi region was brought to my attention, and I love what I see! Even though I sadly haven't visited there myself yet, I want to share it with you.

Setouchi is a city located in southern Okayama Prefecture, Japan.

via Setouchi DMO

Visiting an onsen there is pretty high on my to do list, besides, of course, visiting Tokyo and other urban parts of Japan. It’s been a long road but now, more than ever, we are ready to embrace unique healing experiences in a whole new way and the Setouchi region of Japan is truly the wellness center of Asia.

Deck Your Walls With Travel Stories! // Photowall.com Coupon Code!

Earlier this month I took you on an imaginary trip to Sweden. This week I want to show you a way to bring your dream vacation spots, own photos, or wonderful art into your own four walls! And – it’s a Swedish company! Photowall.com!

(I was provided with a free product for my review. All opinions are my own. I would never endorse a product I don't like or believe in. If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full Disclosure)

Photowall.com reached out to me again. Remember, they already helped me turning my bedroom into my favorite room of the house earlier this year by letting me pick a wall mural. You can see everything here:  https://www.grapefruitprincess.com/2020/02/new-year-new-home-photowall-sweden.html

Make sure to put the 25% off coupon to good use! More info can be found on the bottom of this post.

My boyfriend and I had to skip this year’s trip to Europe (due to known reasons).

How to Alleviate Pandemic-Related Stress // Visit Sweden Shares Tips!

Lockdowns, isolation, and working from home have caused elevated levels of stress for many people: 45% of Americans say they experience anxiety because of the pandemic, according to a UN report. But there are ways to alleviate the stress. Research shows that spending time in nature lowers stress levels – one of the many benefits of grabbing a few minutes to enjoy some greenery or planning a getaway in the great outdoors. 

Photo: Martin Edström/imagebank.sweden.se

The positive effects were tested through Visit Sweden’s very own initiative, “The 72-Hour Cabin,” with participants from major cities who had demanding jobs. They were examined before and after spending three consecutive days in the Swedish countryside where they slept in glass cabins next to water. The study proved that being outdoors surrounded only by nature dramatically reduced negative emotions and lowered stress levels. 

The Arches National Park Looks Nothing Like The License Plate

Road trips and cross country traveling must be one of my favorite things to do. I've visited a bunch of our beautiful National Parks (and adding more to the list every year), and enjoyed my time and the scenery there! When designer and illustrator Amber Share discovered that there are 1-star ratings for each and every single one of the 62 parks, she decided to to illustrate each park along with a hand lettered 1-star review as a way to put a positive and fun spin on such a negative mindset.

If you are a business owner dealing with negative reviews on Yelp, Facebook, Google etc. - this post might brighten up your day a little when you see that nature (or God's creation) literally has to deal with this, too. Isn't it ridiculous?

Well, I've picked a few of my favorites to share with you on here, but please make sure to head over to Amber's website to see all of them! You can even order prints, mugs, and cards with your favorite designs.

Things to do in Arkansas - Walk on the Bottom of a Lake!

Happy 2020 everyone! I'm sorry it's been so quiet around here. I promise to do better! I have to many things I wanted to share, like pictures of my trip to Europe, tell you about me renovating a house and moving.. So much was going on. I hope one of these days, when I'm unpacked and handed over the keys to my old apartment, I'll be able to sit down, work on posts, and get them out to you.

Even our little road trips aren't as frequent anymore right now. But after seeing it on the news, J and I went on a little adventure past Saturday. Lake Monticello is about an hour away from where we live. The lake is undergoing a drawdown so that the dam can be repaired and the fish habitat rebuilt.

Meaning: We were able to literally walk through the lake, on the bottom of the lake since it's drained.

I posted a few pictures in one of my Facebook Groups, and after that post went viral, I though I'll have to share some photos on here, too. I did MINIMAL editing, because the photos I took are very true to what it looked like that day. Enjoy!

It's Fall, Y'all! Time for a Apple-Caramel Getaway!

It's fall... well... let me take that back - a little. I know it's fall somewhere, but here: not so much. We are still having temperatures in the upper 90s every day. On top of that, my car's AC went out a week ago, and when I went to get it fixed Monday, the Buick dealership didn't have the piece they needed. So I hope it will come in today as promised. My Encore is a rolling hell right now, and I take about five showers a day.

In a little over a week we will head to Germany though! I'm excited to spend time with my family and friends - and of course to see and feel FALL! Make sure to check back. I will most definitely share a few highlights of my trip on here and my YouTube channel!

If you can't go to Germany, but Michigan sounds great, I want to share a WONDERFUL fall getaway with you today:
The Apple-Caramel Getaway!

Has the apple got your eye? Stay at The Hotel Saugatuck for an apple and caramel lover’s getaway! Start your visit at the nearby Crane Orchards where you may hand pick your own apples. The Hotel Saugatuck will cover up to 10 lbs of you apple picking - that's a lot of apples! Then return to the lakeside property in the evening for a private in-room caramel fondue for two. The Hotel Saugatuck will provide the hot caramel and a selection of toppings so you may dip and ‘decorate’ your freshly picked apples.

Crane Orchard apples include: Gala, Jonagold, Golden Supreme, Fuji, Macintosh, Golden Delicious, Blondee, Red Delicious, Honey Crisp, Ida Red, Empire, Mutsu, Jonathan, Braeburn, Cortland, Cameo, and Northern Spy.

This add-on getaway package is available September through late October, 2019. It costs $35.

Crater of Diamonds State Park // Win a Fashion Backpack! ($249 Value)

We just came back from visiting the only diamond mine in North America open to the public. As you probably know, we are road tripping and backpacking/hiking quite a lot. I've tried my fair share of backpacks, but recently found my new favorite. The best backpack for work and adventure? My pick is: American Shield Backpack.

(I was provided with a free product for my review. All opinions are my own. I would never endorse a product I don't like or believe in. 
If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission. Full Disclosure) 

  

They sent me the one pictured above a few weeks ago, and it soon became my favorite. It has an inner 15″ laptop compartment, 8 small inner pockets, 1 front pocket, 2 external side pockets, 1 back pocket and 1 strap pocket. Enough room for pretty much everything. The American Shield Granite 25 Backpack I have boasts textile lining and Oxford Fabric, high quality straps, buckles, and zippers built to last.

And you know what? American Shield sent me another fashion backpack YOU can WIN on here! Just enter the Rafflecopter on the bottom of this post for your chance to win.

Back to road tripping. So especially since we remodeled a 1977 Scamp camper, we go see places even more often. Our most recent trip lead us to the Murfreesboro, AR, area. There are two things this small town is famous for: Trout Fishing, and DIAMONDS! Yep, you've read that right: You can find real diamonds in Arkansas.

After a medium successful fishing trip in the morning, I packed water, snacks, and diamond digging essentials (aka plastic containers due to lack of anything else) into my Granite 25 Backpack, and off we went.

Dance our Cares Away, Worry's for Another Day. Let the Music Play, Down...in Meridian, MS!

Raise your hand if you watched at least one of the following shows: Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, Fraggle Rock...
I have a feeling at least 98% of my readers did. And there is one gentleman, who is responsible for all the puppets and making all of our childhoods way more fun: Jim Henson!

I never knew Jim Henson was born in Mississippi. Did you? Bam, we already learned something. And there is a lot more to learn and see: The MAX in Meridian, MS is hosting the Jim Henson exhibition "Imagination Unlimited" now through May 2nd 2019, so if you are anywhere near or already in the Ark-La-Miss area, you should not miss this gem. Why? Several reasons. I mean, you can see the original Kermit the Frog puppet from 1978, besides more than 20 other original puppets, character sketches, storyboards, costumes and so much more. This exhibition will be a magical experience for adults AND kids!

(This is a paid review. All opinions are my own. I would never endorse a product I don't like or believe in. 
If you use links in this post, I may earn a commission. Full Disclosure) 

Gift Idea: Outdoor Lodging For the Modern Adventure

You have probably seen my Wordless Wednesday post, where I shared a first glimpse of the Scamp camper we are currently remodeling - or rather bringing back to life, since we've got it in a very beat up condition.

I love the outdoors, as a matter of fact we are about to leave on a ten day (s)camping trip through TX, NM, CO, and AR in a few days. Nothing beats camping in my opinion, if it's in a tent or a camper. Yes, I even still like you if you are more of a "Glamping" kind of person.

Want to Eat Like a Local in Mississippi? Give These Five Food Oddities a Try

There is no better way to get to know a place than through the local food culture. Mississippi is known for it’s delicious food and has no shortage of great restaurants. But if you are feeling a little adventurous, you might try a few of these local food oddities that only locals know about:

Chicago Mural // Wordless Wednesday LinkUp

Link up your (Wordless) Wednesday posts below:

Make Your Dream Trip a Reality— With the Help of Airbnb

You’ve no doubt seen the blissful treehouses, fairy-tale castles, and chic apartments available on Airbnb, and if you’re like me, you’ve probably bookmarked a few as travel inspiration. The home-sharing website is famous for inspiring fantasy vacations, but did you know it can also help you save for that dream trip?

This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive commission.

Getting started

Wordless Wednesday LinkUp // Lake D'Arbonne, LA

An InLinkz Link-up

#UNCOMMONMURALS // Shreveport, LA

UNCOMMON MURALS designed by area Artists and installed on buildings throughout the 9-blocks of Shreveport Common.