Hidden Magnolias

We all have bucket lists. On my list is a nice visit to Mobile Bay. I want to see Mobile and Fairhope, and spend a little more time on Dauphin Island. I just love that part of the world. Lots of history and lots of things to do. So,  here is a list of the top 10 things to do in Mobile. From the blog: From Rome to Home: My Life in Mobile .  Even thought she doesn't blog much any more, reading her past entries is quite informative. #1 Take a walk Downtown on Dauphin Street.  There's a lot of great architecture and places to eat. Don't miss the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the Bishop Portier House. Bienville Books is a favorite haunt and dinner at Wintzell's Oyster House is a must before leaving Mobile. Photo: Fred Drew #2 Tour Mobile's Greek Revival Public Buildings. Buildings of note include Barton Academy and the Presbyterian Church on Government Street and Christ Episcopal Church at the corner of St Emanuel and Church Stre...

Talladega, AL.  We all know about the famous NASCAR racetrack located just off of 1-20. How could you not know with a movie like Talladega Nights? But drive about 6 miles south and you come upon the small town of Talladega. Chocked full of beautiful homes, this historic town is a delight and a surprise. In typical southern town layout, just find the First Methodist Church and the neighborhood adjoining it,  is often the Historical District. Talladega is no different. You immediately enter the "Silk Stocking Historical District." The Jones Mansion, c. 1880's ( cougar_6 Flicker) The McElderry-Malone Home, c1905 The Woods-Sims House c. 1891 The Samuel C Oliver Home c.1890 The Brown-Elliott Mansion c. 1912 Dr C.L. Salter home c. 1840 The Reynolds-McGee Mansion c. 1904 The Jamison-Purefoy House c. 1898 Side view And a post card of how the Jamison-Pure...

My husband and I like to take the old fashioned "Sunday drive." With a sense of adventure and no set plans, we explore places around Atlanta, visit little off-the-beaten-path places, small towns and attractions. Today we found, thanks to a dear friend, Classic on Noble , in Anniston, AL. The Sunday Brunch is worth the drive. The restaurant is in historic downtown Anniston in an old building that used to house the Kress 5 &10. (However, there are rumors that the building once served as a house of ill repute, but we won't discuss that.) Now if are like me, you may be thinking.... a nice restaurant in Anniston? Alabama?  I am here to tell you, oh yeah . The place is elegant but not stuffy. The tables are beautifully set. The waiters are abundant and attentive. The food stations are located in various areas around the room, so people aren't all packed into one huge line. I just hate that with a buffet, don't you?  Beautiful salad bar....