Hidden Magnolias

www.urbansacredgarden.com Did you know that even though we usually associate the pineapple with Hawaii, it is not native to the islands, but transplanted there from Jamaica by the British in 1886, a full 200 years after the fruit had been cultivated and consumed in Europe? The pineapple is native to South America and was most likely imported to the Caribbean by native tribes, who brought the sweet fruit with them and transplanted it on several islands. Spanish explorers record finding the fruit and marveling at its sweetness in the 16th century. However, I am not going to discuss the fruit today, but rather the pineapple and its influence in decorating. One of my favorite things to do with a pineapple is use it as a centerpiece. Usually a Christmas one like this lovely one from Susan: http://betweennapsontheporch.net/ The  pineapple,  apples and magnolias leaves are just perfect. I also love her idea of making candlesticks out of  pineapples . Her...

Southerners are porch people. We are known for it. Houzz.com People sitting on a porch are often a stereotypical image you see on TV of Southerners. You Tube And you know what? We don’t care. We love our porches. We sit and visit. Pinterest We sit and stare. Harper Lee -  telegraph.co.uk We sit and nap. Zach Flanders We sit and rock.  (A rocker is essential, preferably a Brumby Rocker .) http://myfavoriteandmybest.squarespace.com/ In the past, various activities were often accomplished on the porch – marriage proposals, political schemes, neighborhood negotiations, father-son talks, bets and speculation about football games, and gossip. Not to mention a little drinking.     In the more affluent neighborhoods, front porches were not only gathering areas for family and friends, but also status symbols and staging areas. People might never see the inside of ...

Yesterday, I had lunch at one of my favorite places - Henri's Bakery on Irby in Buckhead. This Atlanta tradition has been around since 1929 and has remained a favorite ever since. I just love their sign, placed on the building when they moved from Peachtree to this location in the 60's.  The building is functional and unassuming, but once you are inside the smells and sights are a delight. One of their specialities this time of year are the King Cakes that you can order for your Marti Gras party. Shortbread cookies, always a favorite, are super buttery and just melt in the mouth.  There are pastries and desserts galore.  The back wall has several counters just chocked full of goodies. The front wall has an assortment of pre-made sandwiches and salads for a quick lunch. But I came for my favorite lunch -- a freshly made to order tuna salad sandwich on white bread with mayo and pickle.  Add a few cheese straws inste...

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....