I recently joined a few of my friends for a mini stay-cation exploring our hometown of Paducah. Paducah is an official UNESCO Creative City—no kidding! And it was the perfect way to spend a sunny Spring Friday.
I’m sure this is as true for you as it was for me—there are so many little nooks and crannies of the town where you live that you’ve never explored. You might think, “That looks interesting” but never make it around to visiting.
My friend, Molly (you’ll get to know more about Molly in upcoming posts!), suggested we visit every place that was mentioned in the latest issue of a local magazine.
Her idea got even better when she thought to bring snacks for the road for us (mango chips!) and gifts to give wherever we visited.
So. Much. Fun.
The Tour Launch-pad
We began our tour at Whitehaven Welcome Center, a rest stop featuring a gorgeous rehabbed Southern mansion. If you’re ever driving along I-24 between Nashville and St. Louis, stretch your legs at this one-of-a-kind rest stop! And, if you’ve got time, take a quick tour of Paducah. You’ll be glad you did.
Our first stop
Not surprising to anyone who knows her, Kelly taught herself to watercolor paint. I call her a gifted artist! She says she doesn’t know what she’s doing, but I disagree. Isn’t this painting she did lovely?
She and Rod have restored the ranch house they bought in a peaceful rural area many moons ago. The couple did all the work themselves, never hiring one contractor. And now it is a feast for the eyes. Plus, there are spectacular stories associated with every room. You’ll definitely hear more about Kelly in upcoming posts.
To whet your whistle though, take a peek…
Their dining room
A corner of their living area
A wall in their bedroom
Our Second Discovery
Then we drove to a little place called Fleur de Andalusian. Casey, the owner, is a licensed massage therapist and artist. Her shop is chock-full of art, funky gifts and memorabilia. She surrounds herself with things that make her happy. Not a bad philosophy!
Next stop: Tattoos?!
We were supposed to visit a tattoo shop next, but they were so busy we didn’t want to interrupt their business! We can always try again. We’re really not hip enough to have our own tattoos. Well, I guess technically I am—I had eyeliner tattooed on many years ago. (Yes, it hurt, but not as bad as you might think. And, no, I do not regret doing it!)
We made the executive decision to substitute the shop Bricolage Art Collective for the tattoo shop. It’s an amazing place full of local artists’ work. I wanted to remember how fun this day was, so I bought a commemorative mug. More about my mug collection soon!
Bricolage is jam-packed with fabulous one-of-a-kind art. (Full disclosure: I have some work there!) By the way, in the arts bricolage is the construction or creation of a work from a diverse range of things that happen to be available, or a work constructed using mixed media.
Our final stop
The 505 Coffeehouse nestles in charming little house in the Lowertown neighborhood, which is home to all sorts of local artists.
Look at this hand-crafted metal sculpture snake…Yikes!
The owner’s son, Mitch, whipped us up some delicious coffees. Two of us ordered their special, the Raven. It’s a latte made with oat milk, dark chocolate, red chili pepper, and lavender.
They pour Kentucky Proud, roasted in Newport. And it is phenomenal.
A Perfect Ending
Then Mitch joined us for some friendly conversation on the house’s front porch.
Such a great day! Saw old friends and made new ones.
Why don’t you try out Molly’s idea and tour your hometown? Grab some friends, map out some of the places you always meant to go, and explore.
Then please let me know about it! In fact, right this minute, leave a comment about someplace you’ve always meant to learn more about. Thanks!
Her idea got even better when she thought to bring snacks for the road for us (mango chips!) and gifts to give wherever we visited.
So. Much. Fun.
Twicsy
Thanks very interesting blog!
Kelly Hackett
It was the loveliest of treats to host y’all! What a delight it was for us to have the honor. PLEASE come back again! XO
Tracey Buchanan
You don’t have to ask me twice! We enjoyed it so much! Thank you for your warm hospitality!
Brenda McElroy
This was such a fun day! It’s amazing the fun and unique places right n your own hometown if you’ll just open your eyes…snd mark out a day to enjoy with good friends!
Tracey Buchanan
A terrific time with great friends!