The Traveling Four

A Lifestyle Blog

Recently-Released Movies to Watch from Home

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If you are looking for some new movies to watch from home, check out some of the movies below:

Sylvie’s Love

Sylvie’s Love stars Tessa Thompson and Nnamdi Asomugha. It is a love story period piece set in the late 1950s amongst the magic of jazz music. I loved it; it was quite refreshing to watch. You can watch this on Amazon Prime.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbjakuJZgww

Soul

Soul is a Pixar and Disney animated movie that I highly recommend. Jamie Foxx does the voice-over for the main character Joe Gardner. It is great movie for the whole family. You can watch it on Disney+.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOsLIiBStEs

One Night in Miami

Regina King directs this movie that puts Sam Cooke, Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, and Jim Brown all in the same space simultaneously. This movie takes us back in time to the 1960s, and we are given access to a night in the lives of these men and the ups and downs they encountered during their time together. It stars Kingsley Ben-Adir, Eli Goree, Aldis Hodge, and Leslie Odom. Check out the trailer and watch the movie on Amazon Prime.

American Skin

This was an excellent movie. I watched it with both of my boys, and we had a deep discussion afterward. I think it should be a required movie to watch. It invoked so many emotions. Nate Parker masterfully played the main character. I bought it via Google Play but, I think you can purchase and stream it on any number of apps iTunes, Amazon Prime, Google Play, etc.

Judas and the Black Messiah

A historical piece that outlines the events that occurred leading up to Fred Hampton’s assassination. Fred was the chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party. The movie is told primarily from the informant William O’Neal’s perspective, who played a major part in his demise. It stars Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield. The movie is available to watch on HBO Max.

Outside the Wire

Anthony Mackie and Damson Idris star in this action-packed movie. I thought it was terrific. Watch the trailer and then watch the movie on Netflix. You won’t be disappointed.

The Little Things

This movie is a psychological thriller, and it does make you think and think and think. Even after the movie goes off, you are left wonder if what you thought you saw is really what you saw. It stars Denzel Washington, Rami Malek, and Jared Leto and is definitely worth watching. I will note that it is best to pay extra attention because you will miss something major if you turn your head. It is currently on HBO Max.

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Fausett Farms Sunflowers – Dawsonville, GA.

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The Traveling 4 spent an afternoon in Dawsonville, Georgia, among a sea of sunflowers on Fausett Farms. The last time we visited a sunflower farm, it was in the middle of the Summer, so the weather was hot and humid. Imagine our surprise when we found out that Fausett Farms sunflowers bloomed in the fall. The farm is typically open for about a month, with newly bloomed sunflowers popping up throughout that month. So, when we saw their Facebook post that said the sunflowers were starting to bloom, and they were opening for a limited time, we began planning our visit. It took us a little under 2 hours to get to the farm. And the cost of admission was $5.00 per person, and free for children under the age of 5.

The crowds were not very large on the day that we decided to go and, there was plenty of space to move about safely. It rained the night before so, the ground was extremely muddy. We had to be extremely careful as we walked the grounds not to slip and fall. Even on a non-rainy day, my suggestion would be to wear shoes that are easy to clean off. This will ensure that you don’t ruin a pair of your favorite shoes while walking around the farm. I even brought a pair of extra shoes to change into after we left the farm.

The kids play area at the farm.

You’re not allowed to cut any of the sunflowers as you walk throughout the farm but, you can purchase pre-cut sunflowers. There were also other vendors there that you could purchase items from. One vendor sold local honey, and another sold raspados. This was a perfect place to take sunflower centered photos. In my opinion, the only disadvantage was that we could not walk in-between the rows of flowers to take photos. We could only go around the perimeter of the sunflower beds. A little area was set aside where the kids could play, which was a good break. After we left the sunflower farm, we went to the North Georgia Premium Outlets for a little shopping.

Check out some of our photo highlights, from the farm:

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Top 5 Apple Picking Farms in Georgia

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The air feels crisp, and the leaves are officially changing color. That can only mean one thing…Autumn is officially here! My favorite fall activity to do with my family is to go apple picking. Apple farms are exceptional for family outings or can be used as a good idea for a romantic date. They are of great inspiration and use if you are into canning, baking, or crafting. Apple farms can be used as cheap and beautiful backdrops for family photos, selfies or even wedding and maternity shoots. Just a little something to keep in mind as we get ready to dust off those cute boots from last year.

Fuji, Gala, Red Delicious, Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Washington or whatever your favorite apple is you can find them on a picturesque farm in Georgia. Here in Georgia we have multiple locations to pick these sweet, mouthwatering, delicious fruits. So let’s get into it.

1. Red Apple Barn

3379 Tails Creek Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540 -click on addresses of each farm to be taken to their site

Red Apple Barn is definitely a fan favorite. Red apple barn is sectioned off for the different varieties of apples that they grow here. When you arrive they tell you which apples are currently best for picking. For the price of admission you are able to take a safe ride on their wagon up to the orchard to pick the apples as well as a cold cup of apple cider and a delicious apple cider flavored sugar donut. They do charge an additional fee for the bags or baskets of apples but the total charge is very reasonable for the experience.

One of the cool things that the orchard has are the cute horses and donkey that you are able to feed with some of the small apples you pick. They are always hungry and I personally think their diet only consists of apples from all of the children and adults pushing apples in their faces (in a good way of course). Red Apple Barn also offers pumpkin picking, pumpkin painting, a playground for the kids and a small picnic area to utilize.

2. Hillcrest Orchards

 9696 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536

Hillcrest Orchards is a remarkable farm with plenty to keep your loved ones entertained. As if the apple picking isn’t an enjoyable experience in itself this farm also offers an abundance of thrilling family packed activities. For instance, their jumping pillow allows for your kids to jump until their little hearts get tired. There is an apple and corn maze on the farm for the mini tripper in your group which is sure to please. The petting zoo they have is unlike any I have ever seen. You are actually allowed to get up close and personal with the animals and these animals are so cute and ready for your affection. There is always something going on at Hillcrest so be prepared for fun and excitement when you visit.

The activities are great but the food is better! Do not forget to visit the market for some of their homemade apple fritters and ice cream. They offer a good variety of bakery items made fresh in-house daily. You are able to see the homemade goods being prepared right in front of you through a big window in their cafe. Don’t forget to take home some of their fruit butters, jellies, and sauces.

3. Mercier Orchards

8660 Blue Ridge Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Mercier Orchards not only offers a u-pick apple experience but a well versed guided tour of the farm to accompany it. While there enjoy the absolutely breathtaking views of the lake and orchard. The grounds of Mercier are so stunning that they have been known to hold a beautiful wedding ceremony or two. I will say that Mercier possesses more of a romantic feel than that of a family atmosphere, not to say that this is not a family location. The market here not only contains the usual jams and jellies and sweet treats like the others but what sets them apart is their appreciable selection of wine which is brewed directly from their own harvest. The orchard hosts educational wine tasting experiences and hard apple cider events so be sure to check their website for their schedule.

4. B.J Reece Apple Orchard

9131 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536

B.J. Reece has the best views of an apple orchard that I have ever seen. There is nothing like a beautiful fall day overlooking the beautiful mountains of Ellijay, GA. Out of all of the farms I will definitely say this farm excels in picture perfect views for selfies and photo shoots. Their property is so well maintained that it makes you want to whip out your camera and snap away. “Reece” offers 80 different varieties of apples, peaches and melons on their premises. You can find a nice, little petting zoo that is filled with cute, docile animals for your enjoyment on the farm. “Reece” offers a nice range of delectable eats. While there do not forget to try their apple inspired bakes as well.

5. C&C Mountain View Orchard Cafe and Market

2984 Mobile Rd. McCaysville, GA

What can I say about Mountain view other than it is absolutely beautiful. It is the type of place that if you weren’t looking really hard you would probably pass it. It is unquestionably a hidden gem in McCaysville, GA. The cider here is what makes you keep coming back for more, and more, and more. Their cafe definitely has some good homemade eats. Mountain View is geared more towards keeping their orchards clean and providing their customers with a family-friendly atmosphere. You can truly feel the love at this budding orchard. If you are looking for peace and serenity during your apple picking encounter then Mountain view is the place for you.

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Dickey’s Farm-Musella, GA

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Where the Peaches are Sweet and the Ice Cream is Sweeter

Welcome to Musella

We started visiting Dickey’s Farms about 5 years ago, our initial thought was that it was a peach u-pick farm, but it isn’t. Although it is not a u-pick farm, the atmosphere here makes you not miss the labor of actually picking the peaches. You can tell Dickey’s Farms wanted to create a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere for their patrons. The farmhouse style décor makes this unique roadway stop-through shop pleasantly inviting. The old fashioned furnishings and design scheme take you back to a time when things moved slowly and life was good. The rocking chairs spread throughout the establishment for you to sit just add a little bit more pizzazz to your relaxation.

When you walk up you are instantaneously hit with the sweet aroma of freshly picked peaches. During the season Dickey’s offers peach samples for you to try…and I do suggest trying them because they are so good. You can buy them by the ½ peck or full peck. I would suggest buying a full peck if you plan to eat, freeze and bake a good bit. If you only want a few to nibble on, you can also buy them by the pound .

The ice cream here is absolutely amazing! The ice cream is what drove our little group to keep coming back year after year. You can purchase their ice cream by the cone, cup or prepacked. They only have two flavors, peach and strawberry… please trust they have perfected the recipe. My personal favorite is their peach ice cream.  Their ice cream is so rich and creamy and you can actually see the multitude of peach pulp flecks throughout. The peach flavor is so intense that it taste as if you are biting into an actual peach. On a warm day, sitting in a rocking chair with the fans blowing on you, eating an ice cream cone just seems like the epitome of an awesome summer afternoon.

Not only will you want to take home peaches by the dozen, or some pints of ice cream from this charming establishment, but Dickey’s Farms also offers a wide variety of other take home items. It’s only right that a peach driven business would have peach inspired items like jams, marmalade’s, salsas, chutney’s, hot sauces, jelly beans, candy peach rings, dried peaches and so much more. Although most people come for their farm fresh peaches you can also find fresh vegetables like okra, tomatoes, corn and potatoes here as well.

Dickey’s Farms is located in Musella, Georgia. If you are planning a trip to their lovely establishment please visit their website www.gapeaches.com. Peach season usually starts around June 1st and ends around the end of August.

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DeSoto Caverns: A Geological Adventure

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If you are looking for a reasonably priced outing for you and your kids to enjoy, take a trip to the Desoto Caverns, located in Childersburg, Alabama. The DeSoto Caverns is full of family friendly activities for all ages. My family and I had a blast doing all of the activities on their beautifully landscaped, clean, and well kept premises. You can tell that this establishment prides itself on being family oriented. The customer service is impeccable, the staff is amazingly knowledgeable and extremely friendly.

We arrived just in time for the Caverns tour, which was only a 15-second walk from the gift shop. Our tour guide was funny, witty and just a tad bit corny. His energy made us feel excited to learn all about the rock formations and the history of the caverns. The tour was an hour long and they allow plenty of opportunities for you to take as many pictures as you want to. At the end of the tour, they finish it with a stunning light and water show inside of the caverns. The way the lights hit the formations is absolutely breathtaking!

Cavern Entrance

After our cavern adventure we decided to explore the rest of the property. We were pleasantly surprised at all of the activities they had to offer. Our family decided to try our hand at archery. It was a little more challenging than the way they make it look on the Hunger Games movies, but we managed pretty well. After that we decided to check out the DeSoto’s Lost Trail Maze. The attendant assured us that it was only a 10 to 15 minute maze…um, yeah, no! It turned out to be like a good 30 to 40 minute maze, all in good fun of course. Also the rain didn’t help but the shelter posts were a good cover. Once done with the maze we mosied to the pedal go carts, which were an enjoyable form of exercise.

  • Yep, I need help!

The activities don’t stop there, this is an all day family fun adventure spot. DeSoto also has mini golf, paddle boats, a cavern crawl, rock climbing, water balloon fights, pedal carts, train rides and so much more. It is mixed with activities for the smaller children up to those of teenage years.

After a long day of activities don’t forget to stop by their beautiful gift shop. I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn’t an overpriced gift shop. The trinkets and knick-knacks are easy on the pockets. I personally ended up buying a monogrammed necklace for only $5.99. We also bought a beautiful rock formation that when you crack it open the inside looks like it is lined with crystal and diamonds for only $5.99. The gift shop also offers a great selection of snacks, drinks and coffee. Our personal favorite was their handmade bakery selections which included apple tarts, muffins, cookies and the turtle fudge was to die for. It was sweet but not overly sweet like most fudge. You could see the caramel and pecans swirled throughout, which made each bite taste like heaven!

Our family had a blast and I know you will too. If you are interested in planning your day trip to the DeSoto Caverns visit https://www.desotocavernspark.com/

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Family Fun in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

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On April 1, 2019, my family and I took a cabin trip to Pigeon Forge, TN, and OOOOHHH BOY!!! Let me tell you… it was so Beautiful!

First, let me tell you about the house I booked on homeaway.com. It was the Paradise Mountain Pool Lodge, and it sits up high in the Great Smoky Mountains. This house accommodates up to 24 people, has six bedrooms and four of them are master bedrooms with Jacuzzi tubs in each master. It also has seven bathrooms, a movie theater, arcade room, hot tub, and your very own private indoor heated pool OMG 🤯. And all of that sits in this 5 story cabin.

The great thing about this cabin is it’s only minutes away from the Smoky Mountains Alpine Coasters, Dollywood, The Island in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. The family and I did a lot of activities while in Tennessee. We visited Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and Aquarium. And to be honest, I didn’t even know Ripley’s Believe It or Not had an aquarium 💁🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️. Not only was it fun for the kids, but, all of the adults also had a good time.

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Aquarium

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum

Pigeon Forge has so much to offer families. We took the kids to an amusement park called The Track, which had race car driving and carnival rides that the kids loved. Also, we went indoor skydiving, to a trampoline park, a house of mirrors, and to the wax museum. It’s just so much to do here for families, it’s ridiculous 🤗(in a good way).

Indoor Skydiving

The Wax Museum

The Track

Trampoline Park

House of Mirrors

Okay now, let’s get to the food. We did a lot of cooking in the cabin, but we also went out. Out of all the restaurants we went to, one place stood out to me, it was called CrawDaddy’s omg the food was SOOO GOOD!!! I was in seafood heaven. Everything was so good and seasoned very well, and the alligator bite 🤤🤤 omg so darn yummy. If you ever go to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, please go to CrawDaddy’s you won’t be disappointed. Also in Gatlinburg, there is a strip that you can walk down and they have other food vendors, restaurant, and stores you can leisurely enjoy with your family.

CrawDaddy’s

Food From Vendors

All in all, this was by far one of the best family vacations. We stayed an entire week, and I was kind of sad when it was over. I highly recommend Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, to everyone who is looking for a great family getaway. I give it a 10 out of 10 and we will definitely be vacationing here again.

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The Public Library – A Major Resource For Parents

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When was the last time that you purposely went to the public library?…

I know for many out there, you will probably say that it’s been years but, let me tell you that as a parent, the library is a resource that you should not overlook. There are so many things for you to do outside of just reading and checking out books. And what’s great about the library is that many of the things offered are low cost or free. Let’s check out some below:

Free Passes to Popular Family Attractions

In Georgia, the public library offers its patrons free passes you can check-out for a variety of attractions throughout the state. These passes include admission for families to places like Zoo Atlanta, Georgia State Parks, museums, and more, for free. To get these passes, an adult has to check them out and you typically get to keep them for 7 days before having to return them. Depending on the time of year, these passes can go quickly so, it is best to ask your librarian if they are available before making definite plans. If you do not live in Georgia, check with your local library to see if they offer a similar program.

Arts & Crafts

Whether you have a toddler, a teen, or a child somewhere in between, the library offers a variety of arts & crafts events throughout the month to engage your children at any age. These classes are usually held in the event spaces at the library. There are even adult art and craft classes that you can register for to create some amazing art.

Classes and Workshops

Do you want your children to learn to code? Or maybe they are interested in film making? Before you go out and spend hundreds of dollars on introductory courses, check with your local library. They often provide classes on a variety of topics that might surprise you. There are even classes for adults that include things like yoga, toastmasters, and technology tutoring. The library also offers a number of informational workshops. These events include everything from preparing for college to small business assistance. So, always, always check with your local library. It might surprise you what type of classes or workshops you will find, and most are provided to you for free.

Storytime

Looking for a way to introduce your baby and/or small child(ren) to the joys to reading, while also enhancing their social skills? Many library branches offer storytime for young children where parents can bring them in for a little bit of baby socializing and a good book. There are often theme-related storytimes for school-aged children also.

Digital Access

Whether you’re looking to help your child(ren) with research projects, or your teen is looking for extra help studying for their driver’s test, the public library has digital resources to help with that. With many of these digital resources, you can access them online from home, with your library card number, or in the branch itself. E-books and audiobooks can also be checked out and downloaded to your phone, e-reader or desktop for you to enjoy.

As you can see from the information mentioned above, don’t overlook the benefits that your local public library can offer. These services can enhance your life and the life of your child(ren). Honestly, this information only scratches the surface of what is offered and for many, the services provided will vary depending on the state you live in. So, take the time to check out your local library and let me know what you find.

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