A morning in Virginia Highlands

There is a wonderful historic neighborhood in Atlanta called Virginia Highlands. Beautiful homes built in the 1900's, charming sidewalk cafe's, eclectic shops, gourmet food & kitchenware, pottery painting, funky dress shops, ice cream parlors, you name it -they've got it.
Dan & I went yesterday for breakfast at Belly General Store. Known for their fresh olive oil -melt in your mouth bagels ( haven't eaten one of those since I started Weight Watchers-my taste buds were so excited) and scrumptuous cheese grits. Such a funky place I thought I'd share some images. The first are just outside their front door.....a beloved Coke sign & vintage chairs. Here in Atalnta, all carbonated beverages are refered to as "coke", "would you care for a coke" might actually mean " would you like any various carbonated beverage?", just not pepsi!
Need to remember this spot for a funky photo shoot!


This spring I began quite a search to find Atlanta's best cupcake for Madison's birthday. Searched high & low--word of mouth, websites, etc. Belly was actually named Atlanta's Best Cupcake ~ after all it is all about the cupcake isn't it? I mean look at these babies....

Each day a different 1/2 dozen or so flavors are featured. Yesterday was carrot cake, red velvet , double chocolate, peanut butter & jelly, & yellow with chocolate. But everyday, those huge fun colored cupcakes are available. Definately worth the drive!

Loved all the urban touches....great lanterns, wire baskets, big tubs for fruits & veggies, but I especially loved the chalkboard menu hung by ropes.

Just down the street is a great salon & spa , Key Lime Pie. For all you precious blog readers who also judge their books by the cover, wouldn't you come here just because of the great funky name! Totally diggin' their window display. Sadly, they were closed---the interior was loaded with greatness!

I was all over these wonderful colors featured in Bella Cucina's window.....robins egg blues, creamy white & golds, sunflowers....could've just moved right in. Would I have still needed to cook dinner?
We were headed over to the new Urban Outfitters when we got a frantic call from our stranded cheerleader. Oh well, all good things must come to an end! wink!

Thanks for sharing the great books too!

Have a wonderful day

xo