Wandering can help change your perspective on things. Being away physically can help with mental clarity. Stop the cluttering of your mind and a chance to shut out the stressors of life. In this week's dedication To Wander, I want to discuss wandering in the sense of travel.

Savannah is one of my favorite cities to visit: the history, art, shopping on Broughton, dining at my favorite restaurants, and of course, wandering. Walking the city helps spur my creativity in terms of photography and coming up with new ideas. We usually travel 2-3 times a year to Savannah; however, one year changed my perspective on what I wanted to do in life.

In a previous post, I mentioned the pull in wanting to attend SCAD. One year, it hit hard as I was waiting for my mom to finish up a training class near their dorms. I watched the students with their brightly colored hair making their way to classes; I got emotional (literally, a grown *** woman crying in the car because she wanted to go to art school when she was younger). This feeling was around the same time I felt "stuck" in the grind of corporate America. I didn't want to continue missing something that I felt was meant for me. Shortly after that trip and after conversations with close family and friends, I applied to art school. Finally, that sense of FOMO was relieved. At this stage in life, I'm more fulfilled and aware that what you seek from the universe (and with prayer) will come to you. "Faith in action," as my friend Nikki can state.

So, this trip was memorable, as what I sought after has been fulfilled: a creative lifestyle and a career choice I enjoy. This Spring, I experienced heartbreak but was reminded of what great family and friends I have. That we love, encourage, and will be there for each other no matter what.

On this trip to Savannah, I was eager to get to the Plant Riverside District, the new entertainment spot on Riverstreet. And it did not disappoint! The architects did a fantastic job blending the historic with the new: unique hotels, new shops, restaurants, and rooftop bars. The atmosphere was amazing; everyone was excited to be out. This trip brought a sense of normalcy.

One of my favorite things about the new area was the JW Marriott and its paleontology and geode exhibits. The hotel itself is just gorgeous, and as my mom stated, they did not have a budget! The hotel is beautifully decorated with art, stone, historical pieces, and a gigantic metallic dinosaur skeleton. A favorite of those visiting were the large geodes that lined the lobby. The most giant pieces of amethyst and quartz I've ever seen! Just stunning! I discovered a new favorite thing; sitting at the Riverstreet Starbucks, waving at the tugboats and container ships go by. It was so peaceful and an excellent spot for people-watching. And I can not visit Savannah without going to Vic's on the River and having the Pain Perdue at Huey's; both guilty pleasures. If you are on a diet when visiting, God bless you. You will not make it, LOL.

Wandering around my favorite city, taking thousands of pictures, felt very 2019. Back when the world was ok. However, this trip also was the revelation that I was wandering into a new phase of life. One where my needs and wants are met, mostly. A time to evaluate past goals and create new ones. A one of stability to pursue other dreams. One, where I can wander without worry.

Written By: Tosha

Check out more pictures from the trip in the Travel section of the Portfolio.

For the moments in between...

Wandering in Savannah / September 15, 2021 by Latosha Hicks