Explore!
This is a word I’m going to use for some 2023 insight. EXPLORE!
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Romans 1:20
I love to travel. Traveling, for me, is the greatest way to educate oneself on others, places, and various cultures and beliefs. When you travel, you learn a great deal about yourself as well. Maybe the knowledge gained is regarding your heritage or how you view the world around you.
This year, I would like to stow you away in my travel bag as I explore places. The places we venture may be actually physical or they could be spiritual adventures. Why…they may even be both, because I’m always striving to keep my “God Goggles” on and see life through God’s eyes.
Ready for our first exploration?
Our first stop of the year was actually mine and Tim’s last stop of 2022. We have a hunting lease in southwest Georgia. Fifteen minutes away from the camp is a town located near the Florida-Georgia line, with a population of around 1,800. There were more students in my high school than in this quaint community. This small town claims the title of “Friendliest Small Town in Florida”. In 1906, sixty-two years before my man was born, on December 5th the town of Havana was incorporated. 
According to the town of Havana’s website, Historic Havana is one of Florida’s most unique villages. First settled in the earliest years of Florida’s development, it soon was driven by shade tobacco’s economic engine. The town was named after Havana, Cuba, for its renown as a high-quality tobacco growing and cigar making center. Although the town suffered a devastating fire in 1916, it rose from the ashes and today Havana is well known for furniture, boutiques, the arts, and of course cafes.
During our three-hour-self-guided -tour, Tim and I enjoyed a delicious Italian lunch at Oscar’s, and yes, the service was very friendly. They honestly informed us that our meal would be ready in 45 minutes. So, after placing our order, we utilized our time by venturing into the neighboring shops. Once we returned to sit in the outdoor cafe area at Oscar’s, our pallets were dazzled by the tasty meatball sub and flavorful chicken parmesan sandwich.
This small town had history written all over every nook and cranny. You could sense their historical pride by the art displays on brick buildings, the revitalization of old establishments turned (-ing) into new shops and eateries, painted quilt-art depicting the past and future of Havana, and the Shade Tobacco Museum.
For some this may be a one stop shop, and for others it is their forever home. For this explorer, it will be a town to visit again and again to enjoy the senses.
Through my explorations, I hope that you will be encouraged. Encouraged to tour God’s glorious creations around you, and most importantly camp out daily in God’s word and examine your heart and mind as the bible challenges and motivates you. God’s word is the greatest book of knowledge and wisdom.
Let’s explore together.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
my chicken parm sandwich.
Tim’s meatball sub.
Painted quilts on the sides of buildings.
#havanaflorida #explorewithme #soakinguptheson