One of the many perks of living in West Mobile is that beaches are within driving distance in three directions. This week, I drove west to the Mississippi Gulf Coast to see all of the new growth that is happening along this 89-mile stretch of coastline.
The beaches were filled with families enjoying a beautiful, sunny day. The water was too cold to spend much time swimming although there were plenty of youngsters willing to try! The stretch of shore from Biloxi to Gulfport offers some great amenities like free parking and clean, spacious restrooms. Restaurants line both sides of Highway 90!
New to the Gulfport area is the Mississippi Aquarium. It has one-million gallons of water, both fresh & salt with 80,000 square feet of exhibits. It is now open and was quite busy over the weekend!
I noticed some newcomers to the restaurant scene including Felix's Restaurant & Oyster Bar. I believe this one originated in the French Quarter of New Orleans. It is on my list to try the next time I venture out "west". Shaggy's has put a second location in Gulfport, close to the aquarium. This is a family friendly spot to grab some great seafood! Patio 44 has opened a second coastal location in Gulfport. This is in addition to their Biloxi & Hattiesburg restaurants. Great steaks and seafood are on the menu!
Many of you know that Mississippi is my home state and it is wonderful to see the coast finally recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. There are many new homes being built and hotels renovations are on the rise. I strongly encourage you to book a night or two at The White House in Biloxi. This boutique hotel offers incredible gulf views and has a wonderful restaurant called Cora's on the premises. Be sure to visit the upper level balcony to see a spectacular sunset!
Of course, the casino's are open and there are many to choose from! The Hard Rock & Beau Rivage sit side-by-side and are interesting places to visit. If you enjoy trying your luck then there is something there for you. They have pools, shops, spas and more!
Gov. Tate Reeves lifted the mask mandate for the state in early March. Counties have the option of keeping it in effect and I did see many folks wearing them in Biloxi & Gulfport. Stores are requesting that you wear a mask before entering to shop.
I only touched on a few options along the Magnolia coast. There are so many eclectic places to explore, including Ocean Springs. This vibrant community has the same "vibe" as Fairhope, Alabama and is a fun one to explore. I hope this inspires you to "day trip" to the coast soon!
In the Spotlight: Ron & Rebecca Finch
Enviro-Master of Mobile
In 2020 Enviro-Master of Mobile experienced a temporary slow down due to the pandemic then, then boom, it took off like a rocket. Owners, Ron & Rebecca Finch, are on the frontline of keeping staff and customers healthy in countless public restrooms across the Gulf Coast.
Their company offers weekly disinfecting services that eliminate deadly viruses, including Co-Vid. When you see Ron's Seal on a public fixture it means that the owner cares about the health and welfare of his staff and customers.
Look for this decal on public restroom fixtures! You'll know that the owner of that business truly cares about the health and welfare of his clients and staff. Keeping folks safe during the pandemic is what this couple strives to do daily.
Rebecca left her full time position as a nurse to assist Ron with the company. Their team is growing, in fact, they just moved to a new office location in Mobile! Disinfection has become a priority for many business owners and the Finch Family is ready to meet that need. Read more about this husband & wife team by clicking here! I want to thank you for all that you are doing to keep the Gulf Coast healthy!
Welcome to Meet da' Boss!
Ronnie Lee's Automotive services European cars! Whether you need an oil change or major engine work they have got you covered. Owner, Andrew Lee, is a BMW Master Mechanic and has been working professionally on cars for a decade. 70% of his clients are female and he has made sure that he has a comfortable waiting area available if needed. Stay tuned for the inside story later this month on the website! Meanwhile, check out their Facebook page by clicking here! This is a mechanic shop you can trust and it is located in Daphne, Alabama.
In the Kitchen! Pork Chops with Bleu-Cheese Sauce over Spinach!
I found this recipe on a low-carb/keto recipe website and had to share it since it is delicious! First let me apologize for not taking a photo. It was a busy evening and before I knew it my plate was clean. This one only takes about 15 minutes to put together yet it tastes like you spent hours.
Ingredients:
5 oz of Bleu Cheese
1 cup of heavy whipping cream
4-6 Pork Chops
2 -4 TBSP of butter for frying
Fresh spinach
Minced garlic
Salt & Pepper to taste
Steps:
1) Crumble cheese into a small saucepan and let it melt over medium heat. Keep an eye on it so that it does not burn. Add 3/4 cup of heavy cream to the cheese and let this simmer on low for a few minutes.
2) Meanwhile put 1-2 TBSP of butter into a skillet, melt and then put your seasoned pork chops in skillet. Cook about 4 minutes per side, depending on the size of the chops.
3) In a large saucepan melt 2 TBSP of butter, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds then add the spinach. Salt & pepper to taste, stirring often until it wilts. Finish off with some heavy cream over a very low heat. Cook until heated.
4) Put a bed of spinach on each plate, top with a pork chop or two, then drizzle the cheese over the chops. Bon Appetite!
Life takes you down many paths, but my favorite ones lead to the beach.
There is something so relaxing about listening to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. The chatter of the seagulls is music to my ears. I hope that wherever you are you'll find time to get out in nature this week. You may not be able to steal away to the beach like I did on Sunday, but you can take a walk around your neighborhood or a park.
Spring has arrived and Alabama is beginning to warm up again! Enjoy these pleasant days before the heat wave rolls in!
Have a wonderful week everyone and please continue to support local businesses.
~ Charlsie