Woodridge B&B - Shootin' the Breeze

Being Thankful

2011-11-23T14:54:00.000-08:00

The day before Thanksgiving is always a busy time. The house fills with all the flavors of the season as dishes are prepared in the kitchen and the door is opened to the warmth of family and friends. This is a day of reflection of Thanksgivings past and those that we only have memories of times shared. We are thankful for those times.

One tradition of Mom's was making her own cranberry salad. She would set up the old heavy grinder on the edge of the kitchen table and as she filled the grinder, we (the kids) would take turns turning the crank. We all loved the smell of fresh cranberries and oranges and Mom had to give in and let each of us have a taste once she finished.

The turkey's cherished parts... we all have our favorite whether it is the leg or slices of juicy white breast meat but how many fight to be on one side of the wish bone? Or what about the giblets? With 3 kids in the family, the one that did not get to try their wish, got the giblets. Sounds fair, except if you ended up on the short side of the stick - (bone) and you were not granted your wish! But Mom always had a comeback to this as well, Mom always had an answer.

These were also the days Dad would transform into Santa - REALLY. For years Dad had a double life around the holidays. He never let us see him leave in that red stuffed suit. He enjoyed seeing all the bright happy (some scared) faces as he heard all their Christmas wishes. One Christmas Eve Dad came home from his last job of the year and he crashed on the sofa, still decked out in full Santa form. We woke very early that year and as sneaky little kids, we peered into the living room in hopes to get a glance of what was under the tree. Little did we know we were in for a huge surprise. Santa fell asleep on the job.

We all have fond memories of past holidays, today I am thankful for those memories and many more. Thankful for family and friends, for freedom and those who have fought to keep it and for our business and the wonderful people that have passed through our doors. May you each have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.

Debbi the Innkeeper
Woodridge Bed and Breakfast

An Audubon Zoo Kind of Day

2011-11-16T13:16:00.000-08:00

Here's to You - New Orleans

2011-11-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

White Cedar Inn - Freeport Maine

Claiborne House - Rocky Mount VA

Thomas Shepherd Inn - Shepherdstown WV

A Star Spangled 4th!

2011-06-18T22:04:00.000-07:00

It is time to dig out your red, white and blue T's, raise your flags and celebrate the birth of the US. And to help you celebrate the area has many festivities to choose from.

Mandeville, Louisiana is home of the Seafood Festival which runs July 1-4 at Fontainebleau State Park which will be filled with rides, arts & crafts, and some of the best seafood you will find, all while enjoying a long list of great music from local rock groups, to blues and even nationally known groups. Of course it would not be the the 4th without a great fireworks display over the lake.

Slidell Heritage Festival is runs all day on the 4th at Heritage Park. Lots of fun by day including great food, displays of art and fun for the kids all with the background music of some of the areas best entertainers. End the day with a fireworks display over Bayou Bonfouca.

Ranked #5 in the best Fireworks display by the American Pyrotechnic Association, GO 4th on the River is THE place to be to celebrate the county's birthday. Get pumped with pride while listening to the New Orleans Navy Band then grab yourself a spot on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River for the dueling barges Fireworks Extravaganza - one NOT to Miss!

Of course it would be difficult to attend each of these great events without a clone or the power of Bewitched. But with a room at Woodridge Bed and Breakfast, it would be convenient to any of these highlights or merely escaping the festivities and have your own quiet celebration while watching the neighborhood celebration on the balcony. Of course you don't need a national holiday to celebrate life, plan you escape today and make your own fireworks.

Debbi Fotsch is the Innkeeper of Woodridge Bed and Breakfast of Louisiana, Slidell / Pearl River - on the Northshore of New Orleans.

Life in the Swamp -

2011-06-07T16:26:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered what it's like living in the swamp? Well the producers of "Swamp People" which airs on the History Channel, thought just that! They traveled down to the bayous of Louisiana to find people who live such a life. One of this year's Swamp People is Terral Evans who lives in Pearl River, Louisiana and works the river of the same name. There have been many other movies filmed in this area all due to the beauty they find in the river and on its banks.
In these parts, the river is known as the Honey Island Swamp, filled with gators, wild boars, black bear, deer, an array of fowl and of course some creepy crawly critters and slithery snakes. Now I grew up near another well known swamp and never thought of them as something I wanted to spend much time around, much less in, but I have a new found love of the swamp and the wildlife that inhabits its parts. And given a trained eye there is no telling what you may find when touring this wonderful area. So how do you get a trained eye for this? Well the best way is to find a local to run you down the river... and I admit Capt. Jack is one of the best eyes around. He can be found at Honey Island Swamp Tours in Slidell along with several other great guides. Or bring your own boat and make an adventure of it all, there are several area landings where boaters can set off and by the way, there is some mighty good fishing in this water too!

The summer is the best time to view gators of course while the winter is best for fowl with the bare trees. Winter also brings in many migratory birds not thought to be found in these parts of the country. The Honey Island Swamp is just a couple of blocks (as the crow flies) from Woodridge Bed and Breakfast where you will find ample parking for your boat and the tour offers a discount for registered guests when booked by the innkeeper.

Posted by Debbi owner & Innkeeper, Woodridge B&B

A Sunny Sunday drive to the beach....

2011-04-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

A beautiful Sunday drive, don't you just love them... taking the road less traveled!!

I remember when growing up each Sunday after changing out of our church clothes and eating our dinner we would all pile in the car and head to where ever the road lead us. With the price of gas today these drives are few but when we do they are cherished even more.

This was a short drive(30 minutes)and the view of the gulf water was worth every ounce of gas... Once we made that bend and the gulf was in view it was not long before we parked the car and let our feet dig deep in the sand and we rolled up our pants to keep the waves from dampening more than our legs. So relaxing and the water washed all the stress from our bodies as the waves massaged our feet. Then sat in the sand to watch and listen to the Seagulls and Least Terns as they flew in the breeze.

Back in the car we saw signs for Pass Cristian's Annual Art's Festival so we stopped for a stroll viewing all the local talent, hearing some great music and great food. We felt so relaxed after our afternoon drive, ready for what ever the week ahead held.

The gulf coast beach is located just 30 minutes from Slidell, LA and Woodridge Bed and Breakfast making it a great central location for your stay - combine beach, nature trails, small town charms and all there is to do in New Orleans - all without unpacking but once.

A Drive to a Dive on the Coast....

2011-04-19T21:12:00.000-07:00

A beautiful Sunday drive, don't you just love them... I remember when growing up each Sunday after eating our dinner after church we would all pile in the car and head to where ever the road would lead us. Well with today's price of gas, that leisure drive must have a destination in the plan. For our Sunday drive, that destination was The Shed Barbeque and Blues Joint, Ocean Springs MS. Wow, what a dive it is.. Money all over the ceiling, some stuck up by the plastic forks just used and you know me, I had to ask the story behind that, as well about with the water line mark on the window compliments of Katrina.

The joint, yes the description fits, was built using garbage finds and putting it all together. The Shed started as a take out BBQ place with 300 sq ft, but as the loyal patrons grew, they decided they needed a spot to drop while they were there, over time the shed has grown to almost 10,00 sq feet of Shed - complete with a great outdoor stage and seating for almost 600 -inside & out.

The music is authentic blues and feels right at home in this setting while licking your fingers to the beat. This BBQ is done by no amateur for sure! I have heard the phrase "bone suckin good" before but never quite knew what really meant until then. Yummmmy. I had the chicken but sweet talked my way into a taste of ribs which fell off the bone on the way to my mouth and some of the best pulled pork ever. This along with some great potato salad and baked beans and I was in hog heaven! No wonder Guy stopped here...

Now this idea has spread to other parts of the south but while no two Sheds are alike in personality, we were told the food was equally as good. Most of our guests travel past a Shed on the way to Woodridge Bed and Breakfast... For travelers coming from the south east stop at any one of the following locations: Destin, FL, Mobile, AL, the Original one Ocean Springs or Gulfport, MS. From the west stop in Scott, LA just west of Lafayette or from the north stop in Hattisburg for a bite and blues!

Relax and live the good life at Woodridge B&B!
Posted by Debbi the Innkeeper, Woodridge Bed and Breakfast of Louisiana
www.woodridgebb.com
Keep up with us on Facebook by liking us: http://www.facebook.com/woodridgebb

A Walk in the Park - Camp Salmen Nature Park

2011-04-10T20:16:00.000-07:00

Slidell Louisiana welcomes a new Nature Park to its list of areas preserved for enjoyment of young and old. Located on the beautiful Bayou Liberty, the park has over six miles of walking trails, boardwalks and scenic overlooks.

This property once housed a prosperous brick factory that served New Orleans. One of the earliest buildings of the area still stand on this property, built in the early 1800's this old Creole French building served and a major trading post of the Bayou Liberty area for over a century and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006. When the factory closed, the owners donated some of the land to the Scouts. An enduring scout culture–one which developed from the collective experiences of tens of thousands of young scouts–endures in the shadows of this building, nicknamed Salmen Lodge by the scouts.
The property is a rich ecological endowment of native landscapes and an unusually diverse community of plants and animals, which make the Camp Salmen Nature Park a living museum. http://www.campsalmennaturepark.org/
When visiting Camp Salmen Nature Park, choose a night or two at Woodridge Bed and Breakfast www.woodridgebb.com which also is surrounded by two wildlife refuges: Bogue Chitta National Wildlife Refuge and Honey Island State Wildlife Refuge

The Spring Bird Migration

2011-04-10T19:36:00.000-07:00

This is an excellent time for birding in South Louisiana, the weather is warm and the trees are starting to produce shade but are still sparse enough to see what's nesting on their branches. While this is home for many species, spring brings many visitors to the area for a good place to rest in their journey back home.

There are many spots to feast your eyes on many species: Big Branch National Wildlife Refuge, Honey Island State Wildlife Refuge and the Northlake Nature Center to name a few. Each April the Nature Center holds it's Great Louisiana Bird Fest, with Birding trips, workshops, Louisiana food and fun. For more info about birding in SE LA visit: http://www.tulane.edu/~bfleury/neworleans/BirdingNO.html

Nesting in a bird habitat, Woodridge B&B is the perfect location for your stay. We will be happy to provide you with birding and trail information to make your visit a memorable one.

The Quirky side of life!

2011-04-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

Like to smile, laugh and have a great time? Me too!!! It is great for your health and well being I am told. And if this is the truth, I am sure my dear friend John will live for a long time. John sees life in a different light than many of us, always seeing a use for something the rest would toss to the wayside, to him it is art and his art will bring a smile to your face.
John Preble is a very talented individual, musician, composer, artist and a collector of sorts. A trip to Abita Springs is not complete without a tour of The Abita Mystery House. Located in an old 40's(?) style gas station, but once inside you are taken in by the world of John Preble where you will view all his wacky collections including bottles, bottle caps, paint by number paintings and old arcade machines as well as several animated New Orleans style themed scenes. John calls this his "hobby out of control". Maybe, just glad it is... he provides us a place to laugh, reflect on old times and in some cases return to our childhood.
Just recently Abita Mystery House was showcased on the evening news - take a peak, http://www.fox8live.com/news/local/story/Heart-of-Louisiana-Abita-Mystery-House/8OUgbf8iik-DJp7b1CvAmQ.cspx Then plan your trip, you will never forget it!
While in Abita Springs have lunch at the Abita Brew Pub and take a walk through the Abita Creek Flatwoods Preserve where you will see a large display of carnivorous pitcher plants. http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/louisiana/placesweprotect/abita-creek-flatwoods-preserve.xml

Abita Springs is aprox. 20 minutes west of Woodridge B&B, where you can take either the Interstate 12 or make an adventure of it and take the scenic back roads. We will be happy to help you with your trip.

The Party's not over -

2011-03-10T19:56:00.000-08:00

In New Orleans the party doesn't stop with the end of Mardi Gras on Fat Tuesday, it's just the beginning of celebrations yet to come.
We all love a parade, right? And in New Orleans we find a reason to have a parade. St. Patties Day (March 17th) & St. Joseph's Day (March 19th) are no exceptions. Dress in you favorite green attire and head on down to the parade. You know what they say, Italian men love the ladies and the marchers will welcome the lady parade goers with green carnations and a kiss 'for luck'.
And I hope you didn't forget to bring your boiling pot to carry all your veggies home. Throws for this parade are straight from the garden and will provide almost everything you need for your Irish stew. Picks of the day will be carrots, onions, potatoes and cabbage. And every bar will have green beer flowing from their taps, a great way to refresh after this festive parade.
St. Joseph's Day is celebrated in a more religious nature composed of St. Joseph Altars adorned by the thankful. A tradition which started in the late 1800's by Sicilian immigrants in New Orleans, the alters set up in homes and public areas are adorned with homemade cookies, cakes and breads and are shared with anyone that wish to come as a way to express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. Fava beans (aka lucky beans) are part of the alter, take one for good luck for the year through.
Think the party is over now - think again and stay tuned for what is next -

A taste of Spring

2011-02-21T17:31:00.000-08:00

Isn't it amazing what happens when the temperature starts warming up. Everyone takes to the outdoors to freshen their property with evidence of spring cleaning by the overfull garbage cans at the roadside. Ha yes, it is soon to be spring.

In south Louisiana it is no different we just have to plan our cleaning around all the festivities of the season which take up most of our weekends. A parade here, the ball on Saturday night, the weekly King Cake party, the list goes on. Yes it is Mardi Gras time.
Want to take in Mardi Gras but hate the thought of large crowds and all that you have seen on TV? Well come to Slidell this weekend:
Friday night parades by Krewe de Paws at 6 p.m. followed by Mona Lisa and Moon Pie at 7 p.m.; Saturday at 6 p.m. - Krewe of Titans parade, and Sunday at 12:30 p.m. - Krewe of Dionysus. Next Friday (March 3) take in the lovely Selene Parade - 6pm.
We have a couple... of rooms left - make it a weekend.

Getting back to spring cleaning - Here's a pic of the freshly painted swing under the oaks at Woodridge Bed and Breakfast. Picture yourself here then make it happen!

We look forward to your visit.
Debbi
Woodridge Bed and Breakfast

Slidell/Pearl River Louisiana
Celebrating 13 years of Innkeeping

LETS EAT - Foodie Alert!!!

2011-01-28T12:20:00.000-08:00

Seems as though my favorite dive is no longer a secret. Seems Guy Fieri of Food Network's Diner, Drive-ins and Dives has also heard of this little hole in the wall and now the world will know.

So here is the scoop, La Pines Cafe in Slidell "under the water tower" will be featured on Feb. 7 at 8:00pm Central Time.

I heard that Mike Murray whipped up a couple of his specialties for Guy: Mike's seafood gumbo is some of the best around, followed by a sloppy prime rib po-boy, you know the type that needs a dozen or so napkins on the side! Donna, the waitress said Guy's make-up artist kept trying to cut in to 'clean him up' during the shoot but Guy said 'the mess is part of the experience'!!! I'd have to agree!!!

Not sure what they had for desert but it wasn't my favorite, which is Mama Jim's Famous Fudge Pie... You gotta save some room for this is is yummy!

From Spirits to Spiritual

2010-10-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

No better time than October to write about spirits in New Orleans where almost every building you see in the French Quarter has its own tale of days gone by and the spirits that remain haunting the establishment. Some are harmless, just passing through while others seem to be up to no good, slamming doors, moving or hiding objects and just making humans uncomfortable while in their presence.

What must it be like caught in between? There are Ghost or Haunted tours every night, year round in New Orleans. And each night those wishing to learn more about their future are welcomed by Fortune Tellers willing to dredge into your future. But in October, things seem to take an even more haunted feel with several haunted houses throughout the greater area to make the hairs on your neck to rise. Check out for a Spooky time.

It would not be New Orleans, if they did not have a music festival to fit right in with the theme of the month. The VooDoo Fest. has become very popular with sounds this year by Muse and Ozzy Osbourne as well as many others check out more here:

Now on to the spiritual side of things. As October comes to a close, we are greeted to November by All Saints Day, a day set aside to remember our loved ones that have gone before us. A day of remembrance. For most, the day includes a visit to your loved ones graves, placing flowers, saying a prayer. For The Choctaw Indians and descendants, things are taken a step further. In days prior to Nov. 1, family members spend at the cemeteries, cleaning and whitewashing the graves of their loved ones. Then as night falls on that Day of the Saints, candles are placed around each grave. Since most of the cemeteries are on pieces of family property many are surrounded by woods with only a small trail and the eerie glow to guide you. Once you reach the graves, the spiritual experience begins. To read the story, please view Visitors are welcome to come met the family and learn about their loved ones. This experience will carry with you the remaining of your days.

When visiting SE Louisiana and Woodridge Bed and Breakfast, make plans to visit LaCombe, just 15 minutes west. It is filled with much charm and culture of its own. Visit the LaCombe Museum to get the flavor of the area. Visit the old Catholic Church where miracles have happened by touching the holy water as well as sightings of Mary.

And while there, take in a fabulous meal at John Besh’s La Province or at Sal and Judy’s. For more information and to book your stay Contact Debbi at Woodridge Bed and Breakfast 985-863-9981 Woodridge B&B.

Trails for the Nature Lover in You - Part II

2010-09-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

Just west of Slidell, Louisiana and on the banks of Lake Pontchartrain lies a march area known as Big Branch. The National Wildlife Refuge maintains this 17 thousand acre area to protect nature from the population encroaching these nature resting areas.

The Boy Scout Trail of 4.5 miles takes you through several habitats and to the banks of Bayou Lacombe. This trail is a gravel meandering around swamp and marsh areas where waterfowl, shorebirds, wading fowl, and neotropical migrants find peaceful refuge. Some colonies include the Red Cockaded Woodpecker colonies, Bald Eagle nests, and Osprey nests. A short quarter mile raised boardwalk trail leads hikers to a cypress slough near the banks of Bayou Lacombe.

The NWR sponsors 'Wild Things' each October, the Saturday after Columbus Day, which is during the National Wildlife Refuge Week. "Wild Things" has presentations, demonstrations, live animals, live music, and tours. While in April, the refuge celebrates The Great Louisiana Bird Fest which will be highlighted in a future article. This is free and open to all visitors.

The Big Branch NWR is also a great place for canoeing, biking, wildlife observation and photography as well as fishing* and hunting*. Each Saturday, the park has guided walking and canoe tours for visitors. No charge for this service. *You must obtain a license to hunt or fish.

Big Branch NWR is located in Lacombe, LA. Take I-12 to exit 74, turn south onto Hwy 434. The offices (signs state Bayou Lacombe Center) are located on Hwy 434 near the junction of US 190.
Big Branch is aprox. 20 minutes from Woodridge Bed and Breakfast Slidell - Pearl River, Louisiana and about 1 hour from New Orleans.

Trails for the Nature Lover in You - Hide & Seek

2010-09-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

Well there is a new craze taking the world by storm, Geocaching! Have you heard of it? Adding a fun game to your hiking experience, can make you day even more exciting. Some choose to do the seek and find - the person collecting the largest variety of tree leaves gets a prize or track the list of bird species found.

Well now there is Geocaching! A hide and seek game where a treasure of sorts is hidden in a location, usually along trails, river banks and such. A fun game for adults and families. Once a geocache is hidden, the coordinates are downloaded on to and are then made available for geocachers around the world to seek the treasure. Using a GPS devise, plug in the coordinates and search away, there will be clues to assist you as well. When you find the treasure, you usually take a piece and replace it with another item. To become a member and learn the coordinates, go to the website and become a member.

Now why am I telling you all about this? Louisiana's State Parks and historical sites have just joined with Geocaching.com in a special treasure hunt. Anyone finding all 41 can win a silver "geocoin" minted for the campaign. Prizes include a set of three such coins — one silver, one bronze and one black alloy — and a weekend stay at a state park. To become a member and learn the coordinates, go to the Geocaching website. For additional information go to

With many of Louisiana's historical sites and one state park near by, why not make it a weekend packed with adventure, fun while enjoying a peaceful rest at Woodridge Bed and Breakfast. just 30 minutes from New Orleans.

See you in September -

2010-09-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

As the temperatures start to take a very southern slow cool down, the area starts to heat up with festivities through out the area.

September Events in and around New Orleans

* September 1-6 Southern Decadence The premier gay and lesbian event of the year, known as the Gay Mardi Gras, costumes are out of this world.
* September 3, 4 and 5th Ain't That Super! Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts will host this play surrounding the events leading to the Saints Superbowl victory. With Becky Allen at the helm, this play is surely one that will leave your gut aching from laughter.
* September 3 Budweiser Superfest at the New Orleans Arena
* September 8-26 "In the Next Room" (or "The Vibrator Play")at Southern Repertory Theater
* September 10-12th The New Orleans Seafood Festival at Fulton Street. - NO the oil spill will not stop this event. Come enjoy the flavors of New Orleans.
* September 10-12th Curious George at the New Orleans Arena
* Every Thursday starting September 15-Free concerts in Lafayette Square
* September 15-17 Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family at the New Orleans Arena
* Le Petit Theatre
* September 24th Hank Williams, Jr. at the New Orleans Arena
* September COOLinar - special lunch prices in some of New Orleans best restaurants
* September 29-October 27 Oktoberfest
* September 28- October 3 Broadway in New Orleans presents Cirque Dreams Illumination
* New Orleans Saints Home games are: September 9 (Thursday) MINNESOTA VIKINGS 7:30 pm NBC and Sept. 26 ATLANTA FALCONS 12:00 pm FOX.
* Third Saturday of the month the Bywater art market
* Last Saturday of the month the New Orleans Art Market

St. Tammany Events:
* September 10-26 - "A Few Good Men" at Playmaker's Theatre Covington
* September 18-19 - Louisiana Gator Fest - music, live gators & culinary favorites including a gator cook-off.
* September 29 - October 3 - Parish Fair - fun for all ages
* September 26, October 10 & 24 - Slidell Bayou Jam Concert series in the park
* Every Saturday - Community Farmers markets -Slidell, Mandeville, Covington & Folsom

Trails for the Nature Lover in you - IV

2010-09-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

Take a hike, in St. Tammany that is! The Tammany Trace is a 27 mile trail once was home to the railroad and travels from Slidell to Covington through woods, wetlands and small towns in between. In the 1800's the rail system brought New Orleans elite to the northshore to escape the harsh summer heat, as you hike along this trail you will spot many summer estates surrounded by moss covered live oaks. Each little town beckons visitors to sample a taste of their town while on your route, from Lacombe, Mandeville, and through Abita Springs each providing their own native twist to the northshore area.

Woodridge Bed and Breakfast is about a 10 minute drive to the Slidell trail-head parking and rest area. Additional parking is found at the Mandeville trail-head, and in Abita Springs.

Trails for the Nature Lover in you V

2010-09-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

The Southern Mississippi's Black Creek and Tuxachanie Trails located just south of Hattiesburg, off of U.S. Hwy 49 in the DeSoto National Forest providing over 60 miles of excellent hiking that affords a variety of scenery ranging from bottom-land swamps, pitcher plant savannas, pine covered hills and steeper hardwood covered ridges.

The Black Creek Trail hugs near the Black Creek River and is not heavily traveled, great beginners as well as veterans trail. The National Forest also has horse, bike and ATV trails.

The Tuxachanie Trail is a 23 mile trail through pine forest and bottom-land swamps, and for the first 5 miles, follows an old abandoned railroad for the first which was built in the early 1900's by Irish immigrants, which served the Dantzler Lumber sawmill.

The Longleaf Trace covers 40 miles from the bustling city of Hattiesburg to Prentiss with vast farms and small towns in the path, as well as several resting stations. Designated as a National Recreational Trail, Longleaf is the longest rail-trail in the Southeastern US. Once owned by Mississippi Railroad, the rail line flourished from the 1800's through the 1930's when the south's lumber industry was at its peak.

These trails are located within a 2 hour drive of Woodridge Bed and Breakfast Come experience the wonders of America's south! Woodridge is only 30 minutes north of New Orleans making it a wonderful central spot for both city fun and nature's delights.

Trails for the Nature lover in you - Part III

2010-09-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

The Bogue Chitto (Choctaw for "large stream) National Wildlife Reserve follows the banks of the Pearl River, West Pearl Rivers and Bogue Chitto River and the great river basin. This NWR covers over 36 thousand acres filled with natures wonders.

Visitors may see a variety of endangered or highly guarded wildlife that call this area home among them: Ringed-sawback turtle, American alligator, gopher tortoise, inflated heel-splitter mussel and the Gulf sturgeon. The swallow-tailed kite is a species of special concern on Bogue Chitto NWR. The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was de-listed as a threatened species in 2007. Bald eagles visit the refuge each year. Other Wildlife Species: White-tailed Deer, turkey, neo-tropical birds, rabbit, raccoon, wild hogs, a variety of snakes, mink, skunks, wading birds and waterfowl.

A vast range of forest encompasses this area from pine woods to stands of bald cypress and tupelo gum in the sloughs. Most of the refuge is defined as bottomland hardwood forest, laced with wetlands. This refuge is commonly inundated with flood waters from the rivers.

Most of these areas are only accessible by boat from the three locks off of Hwy 41, north of Slidell but they have added a new hiking trail not far from the most southern point of the refuge. To get to Holmes Bayou Trail, take I-59 exit 11 "Pearl River turnaround" and turn west.

Additionally, Bogue Chitto State Park has just opened in Washington Parish. Seven miles of hiking trails, 14 miles of horse trails and a canoe and boat launch into the river. Wat to fish while there? Several ponds stocked with bass await your bait!

The Bogue Chitto Holmes Bayou Trail is only 10 minutes from Woodridge Bed and Breakfast. To see more of the refuge, bring your boat, Lock 1 only a 15 mile trip through the Town of Pearl River. Or for a day trip, you can launch in the Pearl at exit 5 or 11 and travel up river. Woodridge is only 30 minutes north of New Orleans - so make your adventure complete - city, country, wild life all packed in a great getaway.

Trails for the Nature lover in you - part I

2010-09-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

September's cooler mornings are perfect times to explore the beauty of nature. There are many areas in SE Louisiana to explore. The Honey Island Swamp Nature Trail is the first in the series of nature trails for Shootin' the Breeze.

The Honey Island Trail runs about 1 1/2 miles following the Pearl River in the area known as the Honey Island Swamp. This area was heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina and parts of the trail are not for those out for a morning stroll. Climbing over fallen trees may be necessary and some areas are heavily overgrown.

This area is rich in natural swamp foliage with blooms from early spring to late fall. Lying in a subtropical climate, many native plants are tropical in nature like the fan palm and the many varieties of ferns. While in the woods, it is always wise to watch for snakes, wild boar, and the occasional deer and black bear.

Spring beckons the birders to the area where their is an abundance of species flock the area in their yearly migration, and some make it their home. Bring your binoculars, cameras and bird books and listen to the calls of nature.

Note that this area is part of the LA Wildlife Refuge and you must obtain a LA Wildlife Stamp to enter this area. Purchase these anywhere Fishing & Hunting Licenses are sold (Walmart is one) for $5.50 and are good for 1 yr July 1-June 30.

It is suggested that boots,jeans and long sleeve shirts be worn when hiking this trail.

Honey Island Nature Trail is located at the Honey Island Swamp exit on I-59, just minutes north of Woodridge Bed and Breakfast Check out our specials All this just 30 minutes north of New Orleans makes it a wonderful adventure.

Traditions of the Choctaw Indians: Lighting of the Graves

2009-11-01T07:30:00.000-08:00

The summer has faded and the leaves are turning shades of gold and red while the cooler weather provides for lively fall festivals. While most of us find it quite fun this time of year following tradition of creating a festive sometime haunting costume, creating tasty yet very gruesome treats to take to our Halloween festivities, there is a small community in SE Louisiana who devote this time to prepare for the day of Saints, All Saints Day.

LaCombe, Louisiana, a small town lying on the banks of Lake Pontchartrain and surrounded by bayous is home to the descendants of the Choctaw Indians. Now a mixture of white, French, Creole and Choctaw they have continued in the tradition of their ancestors. For the weeks leading up to Nov. 1, you will find the cemeteries in LaCombe filled with people working on the graves and the grounds surrounding. Some whitewash the old stone markers and refresh the painted descriptions of their departed loved ones.

Then as the day turns in to evening on this holy day, they return to the site that holds the remains of their cherished loved ones. Most light candles and surround the burial sight with light and their they sit, paying their respects and holding ritual in honor of the dead, and as the evening turns dark the cemeteries are all a glow as more family join in the ritual. As they speak, they talk of their departed grandparents, mothers, fathers, sisters or brothers and the things they remember most about them. As time has passed, it has become a tradition for neighbors, friends and others to come experience the Lighting of the Graves.

My first experience was very spiritual. Some of the cemeteries are deeply embedded in the woods with the faint glow flickering with the breeze of the remaining leaves and as you approach, the glow is brighter and brighter until you reach the cemetery which has become alive with light and people. As I walked, I stopped to read each marker, some would have the traditional cross while others had the cross known as the Cross of the Choctaw. Family of the departed sit, making sure the candles stay lit and talk to those coming to pay their respects. I recall this one young man who told us all about his grandfather. He spoke with so much love and emotion, I knew the gentleman was greatly missed and I as I was leaving felt as though I had met the gentleman myself, and in a way I did as that young man carries his grandfather with him each and every day.

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When visiting SE Louisiana and Woodridge Bed and Breakfast, make plans to visit LaCombe, just 15 minutes west. It is filled with much charm and culture of its own. Visit the LaCombe Museum to get the flavor of the area. Visit the old Catholic Church where miracles have happened by touching the holy water as well as sightings of Mary.

And while there, take in a fabulous meal at John Besh’s La Province or at Sal and Judy’s.

For more information and to book your stay Contact Debbi at Woodridge B&B.

SE Louisiana - Fisherman's Paradise

2009-07-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

Well I love her….but I love to fish! For many fishermen this song is not far from the truth. Well for all the Brad Paisley’s out there, we have a solution to all your worries. But first lets take care of the important stuff.
So you love to fish, well you have come to the right place, bring plenty of ice chests because the waters south Louisiana are abound with fish. Never mind your experience, the fish of saltwater lakes - Pontchartrain, Catherine and Borgne and the fresh fish in the waters of the Pearl River are just waiting for your pole to hit the water. The saltwater lakes are well known for Speckled Trout and Redfish year round.

The Rigolets Marina is a great place to launch and then during the summer head over to the Seabrook Bridge area, in the spring and winter just hover around the trestles near Slidell for Trout or near the marshy banks of the Pearl or Bayou Bonfouca for the reds. The marina will have plenty of live shrimp for bait through late fall, and during the winter you can rely on the Deadly Dudley’s to reel in the catch. If you want an expert guide, Capt. Dudley Vandenborre is the best around and fun to know as well. There are plenty of places to just drop a line off the banks or docks as well…great during the summer when the use of a sliding cork line will lure the trout when they are closer to the top of the water.

If fresh water is more your liking you will love the fishing in the Pearl River near Slidell as it breaks into numerous branches as it flows toward its mouth. Middle, eastern and western tributaries are areas with winding curves and lily pad flats where it is known to have large bass just waiting for you. The Pearl is also known for good river cat and perch. There are several landings up river to launch as well as the Rigolets at the base. For Bayou fishing, you can launch at Heritage park and ride along the banks of the Bonfouca.

No matter where you fish, you will not need to come up with a story of how the big one got away…it will be right there in your catch box.

Now that I have caught your attention and you have packed your rod and reel ready for your trip, lets get to the part of how to make this trip one of fun AND romance. Well I have never thought the words romance and fish belong in the same sentence much less the same weekend, but in South Louisiana anything can happen! Select the Woodridge B&B ‘I love to fish’ package when you book on line and we will arrange everything to keep the romance going while you enjoy the sport you love…
Arrive to a lovely dimly lit room with fresh flowers and a nice fruit and cheese tray. She will hardly budge when you slip out in the wee hours to catch the big one…but don’t forget the boxed goodies we have packed for your adventure. While you are out enjoying the water, she will rest in peace awaking to freshly made coffee on the balcony while listening to the morning bird songs, then joining other guests in conversation over a wonderful gourmet breakfast, followed by an hour massage to lift the stress from her shoulders. By the time you come back she will be welcoming you with a warm rested smile. A little time for you to rest then it is off to a scrumptious dinner at one of the areas best restaurants, arriving back to a nice bottle of bubbly before another wonderful night’s rest. By the time you are packing your bags to go home, she will be asking when you plan to go fishin’ again.

Thank you for Shootin’ the breeze with me - Debbi
http://www.woodridgebb.com
Woodridge Bed and Breakfast Inn Louisiana

Located just outside of the Honey Island Swamp and minutes to the area launches. Providing guests with the ultimate in relaxation and romance.

La Provence - Serves a flavorful mix of South Louisiana and Provence, France

2009-06-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

Award winning Chef John Besh makes his mark at home.

It has been said there is no place like home and for Chef John Besh, there is no better place to be. With many awards and recognitions such as: Food & Wine named him one of its Top 10 Best New Chefs in America. New Orleans Magazine ranked him Best New Chef of 1998, and Gourmet honored Restaurant August as one of its Top Restaurants of America.

Growing up in Slidell, John began his restaurant career under the local Chef Chris Kerageorgiou who was the previous owner of La Provence located in the quiet Creole town of Lacombe minutes east of Slidell. Chef Chris saw in him the makings of a great Chef and inspired him to study abroad in France where John was intrigued to bring back the tradition of the French cuisine and blend it with the wonderful flavors of south Louisiana products to establish his trademark menus.

The unique setting of La Provence provides its guests the feeling of being whisked away to the French countryside. The restaurant is surrounded by lovely gardens including a working farm, which many of the herbs, vegetables and other organic items are grown and served. Each chef under the direction of Executive Besh, works a few hours each week on the farm insuring the best of the best. Besh’s love of Louisiana is propionate by his selection of local grown meats and just caught seafood.

Settling down at your table, you will be further enchanted with the provincial antiques and art which fills the beautiful rooms from the richly oak-beamed ceilings to the rustic hardwood floors, a wonderful mixture of past and present, French and Louisiana. The elaborate menu selection alone will encourage a return visit with many dishes centered around Besh’s signature ingredient, jumbo blue crab. A starter of Chef Chirs’s Quail Gumbo or Blue Crab Bisque is sure to entice the palate for what lies ahead. The Lacquered Duckling with local Mayhaw, is a favorite as well as the Rabbit “Grand-mere” with potato Gnocchi which you will want to savor each bit, both which go well with one of the many selections of fine wine. And the evening would be incomplete without trying the succulent Crème Brulee with red wine stewed berries. It is not uncommon for the Chef to make his way to the dining room to chat with his patrons, which makes La Provence the experience it is.
Besh has several other restaurants in the New Orleans area including -Restaurant August, Besh Steak, and Lüke. Bon Appetite.

Thanks for joining me while I shoot the Breeze – Debbi
Woodridge Bed and Breakfast Inn Louisiana http://www.woodridgebb.com

Woodridge B&B is just minutes away from your evening out, making it the best choice for making it a Louisiana experience. From Woodridge, take I-12 to the Lacombe Hwy 434 exit, turn left and travel to Hwy 190 and turn right, La Provence is located about 2 ½ miles down on your left.

Wildlife Abounds in SE Louisiana

2009-05-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

If you love nature, you will be in hog heaven if you visit eastern St. Tammany parish. Southeast Louisiana is home to over a dozen state and federal wildlife management areas (WMA). Some of these areas provide sanctuaries for hundreds of species of birds, reptiles and mammals, while also providing controlled hunts to keep numbers within reason. My blog will concentrate on the areas in or surrounding eastern St. Tammany parish.

The Pearl River WMA, previously mentioned on this blog, covers over 35,000 acres with several boat ramps, nature trails birding and canoeing. The Bogue Chitto National WMA extends north of the Pearl River WMA and encompasses 36,000 acres of the Pearl River Basin. This area is considered a bottomland hardwood forest with areas containing sloughs and bayous to explore. The woods contain the bald cypress, water tupelo, the Mayhaw and other water loving hardwoods in the low-lying areas and live oak and pine on the higher grounds.

Given the name Bogue Chittio (or Large Stream) by the Choctaw Indians, the area is home to many endangered or threatened species including the ringed-sawback turtle, American alligator, gopher tortoise, inflated heel-splitter mussel, the Gulf sturgeon, bald eagles and the swallow-tailed kite. And is also home to deer, turkey, neo-tropical birds, rabbit, raccoon, a variety of snakes, mink, skunks, wading birds and waterfowl.

Trails have been made for those interested in eco-tourism. And there are several ramps for boating as well. There are several entry points north of Slidell near the town of Pearl River.

Thanks for joining me while I shoot the Breeze – Debbi
Woodridge Bed and Breakfast Woodridge Bed and Breakfast Inn Louisiana http://www.woodridgebb.com
" Located just south east of the Bogue Chitto NWR. Let us help plan your visit to nature's paradise.

The Bogue Chitto is located just north and northwest of Woodridge B&B. To reach the southern tip of the refuge travel 6 miles on I-59 to Pearl River Turnaround Exit 11. Heading east from this exit takes you to a fishing area, turning west will take you toward the Holmes Bayou Trail. The Refuge can also be accessed from Locks 1, 2, & 3 by taking Highway 41 north of Slidell. To reach the furthermost East side of the Refuge, take I-59 North to Picayune, MS (15 miles north of Woodridge B&B) Take HWY 43 to Walkiah Bluff Water Park or to Dumas Wise Road to access the Refuge.

The Honey Island Swamp in Louisiana; Nature’s Paradise!

2009-05-12T09:56:00.000-07:00

When people think of swamps they usually think of Louisiana as they go together like biscuits and butter. Southeast Louisiana is home to the two largest swamps in the state, the Atchafalaya the states largest is southwest of the city of New Orleans. The second, and in this writers opinion the best swamp to tour, is the Honey Island Swamp which is located on the East side of Slidell, running along the vast Pearl River.

Honey Island Swamp covers over 70 thousand acres of wetlands. Fed by the mighty Pearl River, Honey Island Swamp is sometimes flooded by the river running over it’s banks mostly occurring during spring. The Swamp is a State Wildlife Refuge protected by the State Wildlife Protection Agency, which provides a sanctuary for nature. Of course most do not think of a swamp without getting a vision of the prehistoric looking alligator, but the swamp is filled with so much wildlife that a true naturalist would love getting lost in this area.

Birders, too find the Honey Island a wonderful place to spend their mornings. Many students find this area an ideal place for school projects or thesis. One such student was studying the history of bird species and their territories. This student had studied intensely the history of birds in Illinois and found that many species that once made that area home hundreds of years ago, now reside in the Honey Island Swamp do to the ever changing climate. His visit to the swamp was to determine how many of those species he could encounter here.

Several reports have spiked world wide interest to the Honey Island Swamp. There is the legend of the Honey Island Swamp Monster that got SciFi fans rushing to the area to find him back in the 1970’s and the legend has resurfaced with the release of Mr. Ford's documentary put together by his granddaughter in 1999. Another stir was with the possible siting of the thought to be extinct Ivory Billed Woodpecker. To this day, birders flock here in hopes to find this large bird which can be easily confused with the popular large Pileated Woodpecker found throughout the area.

I have not even touched the surface of the vast tree and plant life, from the bald cypress, tupelo and river birch to the swamp grasses, Spanish Moss, and the wild Iris which lies on the water banks and much, much more. I never thought of a swamp as a place of beauty but it is. Come to Louisiana, Experience Nature, Explore the Honey Island Swamp.

Thank you for Shootin’ the breeze with me - Debbi

Woodridge Bed and Breakfast Inn Louisiana http://www.woodridgebb.com
Located just outside of the Honey Island Swamp and minutes to the tours and boat launches, Woodridge B&B is the perfect place to enjoy nature. Guests of Woodridge receive special discounts at some area tours, when booked through the B&B.

The best way to tour the Honey Island Swamp is by boat. If you bring your own boat or canoe, there are several public launch sites making it easy to experience the area at your leisure. For those not coming in tow, a tour may be more up your ally. There are several tour companies in the Slidell area that do tours year round. Most have covered boats to protect you from the sun when you are not under the vast tree canopy, and from the occasional afternoon showers.

Honey Island Swamp: - http://www.honeyislandswamp.com/
Pearl River Eco Tours: - http://www.pearlriverecotours.com/index.html
Cajun Encounters: - http://www.cajunencounters.com/Swamp_Tour.html

For those wanting to explore on foot, permits can be obtained to wonder through paths created near the northern end of the refuge off I-59 near the town of Pearl River and other areas. See the State Wildlife and Fisheries site: http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/hunting/wmas/wmas/list.cfm?wmaid=35