One of my new favorite stores opened in The Village of Providence in Huntsville in August of 2025. ShopMOSS is a jewelry and apparel boutique owned and conceived by Vania Morris, who was born and reared in Italy. She and her family came to Huntsville when she was 12 because of her father's job, intending to stay for four years. She knew only a few words of English, but she was enamored with America and Huntsville in particular. Now, more than 20 years later, she has a lot that anchors her to...

On past trips, we've spent considerable time in Baton Rouge -- and I do recommend that you enjoy the sights and tastes in and around this vibrant city. TIP: It might be best to plan your trip for a time OTHER THAN a home football game weekend for Louisiana State University. Check the schedule here. Here are some past posts about sites near Baton Rouge that you might want to read (again) and consider if you're planning a trip: A Lovely Stay at Houmas House Estate and Gardens 2 Recommended...

Visiting the laidback town of Breaux Bridge required a short backtrack from Lafayette before heading to Lake Charles, but the comments we heard made us want to check it out. The idea of cute boutiques, poking around a large antique shop, and having brunch in a 1925 building that was once known for making caskets proved to be too much to resist. Remnants of the hand-operated Otis elevator that was used to transport caskets from where they were made upstairs to the showroom downstairs are...