This is my second visit to my friends home state, Louisiana. Lynette and I have done the "Thelma and Louise" road trip 2 times now (minus the mis-haps the movie portrayed). I enjoy her company and exploring her "back yard" once again, touring local plantations.
As each home has its elegant unique beauty, I can't help to think of Gods love in us, His beauty reflecting in our lives, in unique ways. Not that we are perfect, but continue taking steps forward, His mercy is new every morning.
I do thank God for friendship. My circle may be small, but it is truly a rich circle!
Once again, I took over 300 pictures, and it was very hard to pick out a handful. Enjoy!
Houmas House Plantation was established in the 1770's and was the largest sugar plantation of its time.
Elegant stairway.
The carriages would come through this archway, dropping off guests, who would typically stay a month or two....
The kitchens were separate from the homes, due to a chance of fire.
The patio outside the kitchen.
Lunch was delish! The price, not so much...
Ancient trees displaying welcoming shade.
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Nottoway Plantation was completed in 1859 with 64 rooms on 3 stories. It is referred to as the "American Castle." It is now a Bed and Breakfast.
Girls just wanna have fun!
The back yard (heehee)
If you can "fall in love" with a room, this was it for me! The White Room.
Window door to the porch. The bigger the window, more breezes to feel!
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Destrehan Plantation was established in 1787 and remains the oldest documented plantation home, in the lower Mississippi River Valley.
Upper Porch to enjoy the breezes.
Most Oak trees are around 200-300 years old on the plantations.
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Bocage is an American-Greek revival plantation established in 1801, built as a wedding gift. I am understanding the beauty of old things, and the craftmanship of woodworking. Inlaid chests, ornate carved wood of yester-year well preserved. Bocage is now a Bed and Breakfast.
Inlaid with silver, brass and other precious metals, this chest honors Napoleon circa 1700's. It even had secret drawers!
"Girls staying warm!"
Ornate headboard.
There was so much history talked about and looked upon, too much to even remember, but a joy to reminisce of days gone by.
'Mid pleasures and palaces,
though we may roam,
Be it ever so humble-
There is no place like home!
Two happy faces soaking up the sun!
Not a care in the world, just having fun.
A cheesy grin to let you know he was having a blast!
Posing for my picture. Gotta love him!
Had breakfast at the "Island Cow" bistro. Everything was cows...
Cow seat for Jayden!
The Bubble Room! Very colorful outside!
Had dinner at the Bubble Room! Can't miss it if you go!
Trying to relax with the active 5 year old!
Sunset - Jayden needs a pair of sunglasses!
The "Sanibel Stoop!"
Shell Hunters!
Our hotel on the beach, Holiday Inn.
I hope this inspires you to enjoy our beautiful beaches in Florida, our back yard. Find time to do the things that you love, take the time to enjoy God's creation along with family and friends.
