Dear Southern Lady

Jeannie Frey Rhodes. All 3 names spoken together like one word. We talked about finding her gift later in life, infertility, adoption, memorable weddings, antics, and how special animals and people really are. This life is beautiful and I’m thankful Jeannie is capturing that beauty and talked to me about it.

While I was in Dallas last weekend, I spent time with my friend Whitney Harmon. She is a new friend but has a depth to her that makes it feel like we can talk about anything and have forever. Whitney has decided not to drink since last August, close to when her mother was passing away. Being from south Louisiana, we talk about the culture of drinking and so much more.

It’s a sad time of year as I say goodbye to “my girls”. Living in Auburn, I rely on the help of young college girls. They are graduating in just a few weeks, so I sat down with Carter and Shirey to get their take on the new chapter ahead of them.

The diamond and jewelry industry is fascinating. Enjoy this talk with Whitney and one of her favorite diamond dealers as they discuss some of the inside scoop of the industry.

Vera and I talk about her new book Your Second Chapter. We also talk about her first chapter of life which include feelings of rejection, abandonment, and insecurity. Stemming from Isaiah 61 how God gives us beauty for ashes, Your Second Chapter focuses on what God can do when we give Him our hurts from our chapter one of life. Vera shows us what a second chapter with God looks like.

Mulberry and King owner, Meredith Murphy talks about life in Charleston. The journey to Charleston, starting a family, and a new business, Meredith is the inspiring entrepreneur that is the fresh breath of fun the south needs.

Jess is the talent behind the business that she started 15 years ago, “Frou”. Through laughter, we talk about the journey of entrepreneurship, being creatives, and how she landed in the arena of being a floral designer. Or as she coined, being the CEO of all things “Frou”.

Kathleen Waguespack: she broke the mold. I learn and laugh as we talk of Jewish ancestry, plantation life, raising boys, and a little inappropriate story telling.

Jerilyn Carrier has been a Christian as long as I’ve known her. She shared the Gospel with me, and I am now a Christ-follower as well. Being a Christian does not make life easier or less exciting. Life is hard and life can be filled with joy at the same time. Enjoy our talk about those very things.

The outdoor industry is an amazing one. I’ve been exposed to invaluable relationships including JJ Reynal, owner of Los Laureles Lodge in Argentina. Here is a short explanation of the lodge and the thoughts behind hospitality, great service, and memorable experiences.