Bernie Blog: Spring weather in February!

With forecast of sunny skies and high temperatures averaging 70F, we set off on an excursion into Atlanta. The springboard of our trip was the required oil change for Jean's car. We figured the Honda dealership where the oil change was to take place is halfway to Atlanta already so why not? Raleigh and I were sure to bring ample reading material just in case the oil change took awhile. Turns out it was done in no time. The first stop on our agenda was to be Panahar Bangladeshi Cuisine but with the oil change done early, we had time to spare before they would be opened for lunch so a quick jaunt to the WESTSIDE district was in order!

Westside consist of various retail and dining establishment located near the corner of Howell Mill and 10th St. Most of the establishments inhabit former industrial spaces adding much charm to the area

More about WESTSIDE PROVISIONS DISTRICT

Our first stop, STAR PROVISIONS where the finest foods, latest and greatest tableware and anything cool related to great living is to be found. Although I sometimes leave the shop empty handed, I always leave fully inspired for my next soiree! Often times, we leave there with a delicious selection of tasty breads and pastries. There's always too many choices and today we left with a box of made from scratch donuts(wait till you see what flavors they had) and soft pretzels.

The highlight of today's shopping experience at STAR PROVISIONS was discovering on the sale rack the Juliska cordial glasses I have been lusting after and "stalking" for several years. They were finally on clearance and at an affordable price after all these years. The best part is I was there to buy the last six!

A bit dusty after being on display for over 4 years

A quick rinse in hot soapy water and they are as good as new

mouth blown in the Czech Republic!

Our next stop, the newly opened ANTHROPOLOGIE on the WESTSIDE, another favorite stop for inspiration and unusual tableware.


The turquoise wall is colored stucco and the lines exposed metal structure of the building. I also loved the interesting plastic cones colored to suggest Calla lilies adorning the building

At ANTHROPOLOGIE I purchased a book I have been considering for a few weeks now in anticipation of dietery request for an upcoming retreat I will been cooking for. I have found it a wonderful learning experience creating gluten free baked goods.

"hmmm, wonder which recipe I will try first, they all look yummy"

Shopping always makes me hungry so it was time for our favorite place for buffet lunch in Atlanta: Panahar Bangladeshi Cuisine
I ate Tandoori Chicken with yoghurt & mint sauce, Eggs and onions, Chicken Tikka, Saag Paneer, Green papaya curry, Naan bread adn Basmati rice. For dessert, fresh oranges, Gulab jamun and rice pudding.

Typical lunch buffet selection at Panahar

Dessert

Done with our yummy lunch it was off to the gardens. It was sunny, not too hot, just perfect weather! I was looking forward to viewing the Orchid Daze and the Camellia show was an unexpected bonus.

Click link below to see additional photos on Facebook

MORE ORCHID DAZE PHOTOS

This year's theme for the orchid exhibit was "liquid landscapes" and the orchids were on display surrounded with various water features. I managed to video one of the features:

The Camellia show was interesting. Some of the blooms exhibited were the size of large Peonies. From watching the interactions of the participants, I could tell they were passionate about their Camellia. The number of variations of pink, white and red blooms were mind boggling.

My favorite color for flowers is white. With the absence of a gaudy hue, the sculptural quality of certain flowers can be fully appreciated. Some of my favorite white flowers today: