Browsing: Living

I moved from Mississippi to Massachusetts on September 7, 2025. Eager to finally embark on a new journey, I did not know how much of a cultural shock I would experience. Below are three of the first differences I have noticed within nearly a month of arriving. 

PASCAGOULA—Whether you are a competitive kayaker or a leisurely kayaker enjoying scenery, the Pascagoula River Paddle Battle has something for everyone on its 11.5-mile course.

This beautiful autumn weather is the perfect time for enjoying a nice, long car ride along the back roads and byways of our scenic state.

A few days ago, I came across a social media post that really stuck with me long after I read it. The exchange involved three businesswomen from Tupelo, Mississippi, all of whom own businesses within the food service industry that are similar. 

MOSS POINT—Picture it…the scent of southern barbeque floating over the riverfront park and the sounds of Mississippi Blues filling the background space as a celebration of hospitality, food and music takes the stage in downtown Moss Point.

Baldwyn, Mississippi is on the grow!

Now, for those who have not visited this small North Mississippi town lately, or for those who might not have ventured there yet, the growth is both exciting and enjoyable. And the latest welcomed addition to Baldwyn is also delicious.

PASCAGOULA—Since 2022, lively music and bright colors have helped kick off Hispanic Heritage Month at Pascagoula’s Beach Park.

There are few pastimes more classic along the Mississippi Gulf Coast than crabbing. It’s simple, inexpensive, and fun for all ages—whether you’re showing kids how to crab or chasing dinner on a quiet evening.

Everybody knows Mississippi for the big ones—our blues roots in the Delta, the stately homes in Natchez, the seafood suppers on the Coast. And while those places are worth bragging about, there are some corners of this state that don’t make the headlines but will absolutely steal your heart. They’re the kind of spots you stumble on, tell your friends about, and then go back to because they stay with you.

Belhaven University is once again searching for aspiring writers to award a full-ride scholarship. In honor of well-known author and alumna Angie Thomas ’11, the University will present the Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship to one incoming creative writing major.

When people talk about the soundtrack of America, Mississippi is always playing in the background. The Magnolia State gave birth to the blues, nurtured gospel and soul, and shaped the rhythms of country and rock. You can’t talk about American music without talking about Mississippi.

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) School of Leadership will host the fourth annual Southern Miss Cruisin’ on Monday, Oct. 6, from 3 to 5 p.m. on the Gulf Park Campus South Lawn in Long Beach.

For nearly a year, I lived in Goodman Mississippi without ever stepping foot inside the little brick building on Main Street. I’d drive past it, see the sign out front with some message about story time or a craft night, and think nothing of it. Downtown Goodman isn’t flashy. There’s a post office, one restaurant, town hall, and that library tucked into what used to be a Presbyterian church. Nothing about it seemed urgent enough to stop for.

Mississippi has always been known for its rich cultural heritage, its stories, and its people who turn everyday life into something extraordinary. Now, that legacy will take center stage on a national level as our state heads to Pasadena for the 137th Rose Parade on January 1, 2026. The theme? “Where Creativity Blooms.” And if there’s one thing Mississippi knows well, it’s creativity.

This week, as I sat down to write, I started out looking for an event to cover. There’s always something happening along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, but I kept circling back to the thought that we don’t always have to wait for an event to get out and do something. One of the greatest gifts of living here is that our waters are always open—ready for us whenever we are.

Every October, the Mississippi Gulf Coast hums with more than just the sound of waves rolling in. It hums with engines—deep, steady, and proud—as classic cars roll down Highway 90 like old friends returning home.