Hidden Magnolias

I just love a crumbling mansion. When I see one, my fanciful imagination kicks in and I begin to image what life was like living there. Who lived there? What did they do? What kind of parties did they give?And why the house is no longer loved? This afternoon I was randomly reading blogs and clicking links. I stumbled on Puttin' on the Grits . The blog owner doesn't give her name but she has a wonderful blog. She raises chickens, gardens, cans, and take great pictures.  Anyway, back to the crumbling mansion. As she was driving through South Georgia, she discovered this wonderful house in Elmodel, GA. (I have never heard of Elmodel, so I looked it up. It is southwest of Albany. In the middle of nowhere.) http://www.puttinonthegrits.com From her blog: " On our way back to Florida, we took the scenic route and passed this old house in the tiny town of Elmodel, Georgia. From what I've been able to find, it was built in 1908 ...

My favorite magazine, Garden and Gun, always has a section in their magazine about articles Made in the South. I thought I would add one of my own. I recently became a fan of Carley Ochs, founder and creator of Bourbon & Boweties line of jewelry. She is a good ole’ Southern girl with eye for designing great jewelry. From dainty to racy, these statement bracelets are a must have. The Bourbon and Boweties motto is “Made by proud Southern hands” and it envelops all that Carley is and has become in her 27 years. Carley loves what she does and it shows in each piece. The soft green is so popular right now with this year's Spring colors. I love the way her bracelets can mix with other pieces. Visit her at  https://www.facebook.com/BourbonAndBoweties

Nothing heralds the arrival of Spring than Easter Eggs. As a child, we all loved an Easter Egg hunt. Even today, I love to watch an egg hunt and hear the squeals of delight when the treasure is found. I wanted to share some eggs with you today from some very creative bloggers. Eggs are so versatile and can be decorated in so many ways. I love this one made of polymer clay. AMBER ELLEDGE/ STARLESS CLAY Debbie at Confessions of a Plate Addict , did these lovely decoupage eggs with fabric. Angie at The Country Chic Cottage did these clever paper mache eggs. This is a cute box of decorated eggs using ribbons and jewels. Kathy at Life on Lakeshore Drive did this adorable "Easter" plant with dollar store materials. You could use it anywhere. Adrienne at Our Unexpected Journey had made a wonderful centerpiece hanging eggs from branches. I will leave you with my favorite..... Deviled Easter Egg chicks. Being ...

Those of you that know me, know that one of my favorite places in all Atlanta is the Swan Coach House. Located behind  the Swan House, an historic Italianate estate once home to the Inman family,  the carriage house of the Swan House estate was transformed into a thriving restaurant, gift shop and art gallery. There are three sections to the building: restaurant, gift shop and art gallery. When you first enter from the restaurant door you are greeted with a beautiful painting of the Swan House.  Here is another picture so you can see how lovely the Swan House really is. Atlanta History Center Lunch is usually busy, so you have the choice of sitting and waiting, or exploring the gift shop.  Let's shop. So much eye candy. I love this guy and if he is there the next time I visit, he is going home with me. There are...