Blue to Beyond

Tag: travel

  • Mountain Roots and City Moves

    I grew up on top of South Pittsburg mountain, in a home that was once the old schoolhouse. In fact, our road, Patton School Road, was named after it, turning off the main winding path up the mountain. Life back then just seemed simpler.

    My mind still flickers with memories of bottle rocket wars and Roman candle target practice. It was a true Gen X “trial by fire,” a type of childhood adventure almost unheard of today—and likely why warning labels are found nearly everywhere now! Our family history was a fascinating blend of handmade fishing lures, dachshunds, and yes, even moonshine. We were a tight-knit family: Granny, Uncle Sammy, Aunt Donna, Mom, Dad, my brother, and I. We relied on each other as our own small community to support, grow, and survive the best way we knew how. My Uncle Carl and cousins lived nearby too, though they were a bit older than me.

    My dad was a laborer by trade, working hard at one of the factories in Chattanooga, TN. He was a great example of a hard worker to everyone who knew him. I always remember him bringing a treat home from work at the end of the week, whether it was a sugary delight or some novelty he’d found. His thoughtfulness made the anticipation of his arrival that much greater. It wasn’t until much later in life that I truly understood the sacrifices and burdens my dad must have carried during those years.

    Then came 1984. He was laid off from his job, forcing us to pull up our country roots and embark on a new chapter in Atlanta. We moved into a small Winnebago—two adults, two children, and our dachshund, Sweet Pea, all squeezed into that tiny space for what felt like the coldest winter on record. I remember my 10th birthday quite vividly: receiving a bingo game and a store-bought cake. I dared not complain, because even then, I understood the immense challenges we were facing.

  • Reel-y Good Times

    Florida vacation St. George island

    Just got back from an incredible four-day escape to St. George Island, and let me tell you, it was exactly what the soul needed! After years of the corporate grind, these adventures are what I live for now, and this trip delivered in spades.

    The plan was simple: sun, sand, and plenty of fishing. What we got was even better. From the moment we crossed the bridge onto the island, that distinct “Forgotten Coast” charm enveloped us. The air was fresh, the pace was slow, and the Gulf stretched out, an inviting canvas of blue.

    And oh, the fishing! My trusty rod and reel were practically singing. Over the four days, whether casting from the shore, wading the flats in Apalachicola Bay, or even trying our luck off a local pier, the fish were biting like crazy. We lost count a few times, but conservatively, we reeled in a staggering 50 to 60 fish! Catfish, whiting, 2 stingrays, and 1 feisty lady fish – the variety was fantastic. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a tug on the line, the fight, and the satisfying moment of bringing in a beautiful catch. Each fish felt like a little victory, a testament to the island’s abundant waters.

    But as much as I love the thrill of the catch, this trip was about so much more than just the numbers. It was about sharing those moments with the people who matter most. My family and friends were right there with me, enjoying every sun-drenched second. We laughed, we told stories, we navigated tangled lines (mine, mostly!), and we celebrated every nibble and every landed fish together.

    Beyond the fishing, St. George Island offered the perfect backdrop for pure relaxation and connection. We spent mornings strolling the pristine, uncrowded beaches, collecting shells and watching the dolphins play in the surf. Afternoons were for leisurely lunches, enjoying fresh seafood at local spots that truly capture the island’s laid-back vibe. Evenings were reserved for breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, followed by stargazing that reminded us just how vast and beautiful the world is beyond our daily routines.

    It’s these moments of shared joy, the simple pleasures, and the undeniable beauty of nature that truly define my new adventures. St. George Island, with its incredible fishing and family-friendly atmosphere, was a perfect reminder that leaving the corporate world was the best decision I ever made. The reels are still humming, but now, it’s a different kind of freedom they sing of.

    If you’re looking for a place to unplug, cast a line, and reconnect with loved ones, put St. George Island on your list. You won’t regret it. I’m already dreaming of my next visit!