Saturday night we were in for a real treat. We decided to skip on over to the famous Blue Willow Inn for dinner.  The Blue Willow Inn is located in the heart of the adorable town of Social Circle and is just a short drive from my Dad’s house.  I had no idea that such an amazing little restaurant was just around the corner. The drive there was just as amazing. We all enjoyed taking in the scenery along the country roads: farmland, historic houses, budding trees, blooming daffodils and an amazing setting sun.

“You may only think you’ve died and gone to heaven when you confront the cream-brick Greek Revival mansion with its wide portico porch and Corinthian white columns, enter the grand hall bedecked with antique furnishings and crystal chandeliers, sit at a table adorned with blue willow pattern china and fresh flowers, and treat yourself to a sumptuous meal of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, collard greens, cornbread, fried green tomatoes, sweet iced tea and banana pudding.” – Atlanta Journal Constitution

The weather that evening was perfect. There was the slightest breeze as we sat outside waiting on our table enjoying the last rays of the setting sun. Of course I took this time to snap some photos of the beautiful scenery.

The hostess was very gracious and offered all waiting guests fresh lemonade and the cozy rockers on the front porch were all a-rockin’.

The architecture, both inside and out, was very stately while still maintaining that warm Southern charm.  The fountain bubbled and splashed in the sunlight, while the chandelier sparkled above the chatter of guests and the clinking sound of china.

Of course no meal would be complete without a delicious, ice cold sweet tea, the “champagne of the South”

Photos by KHJ 

Sadly the camera’s battery died before dessert. There was a smathering of desserts to choose from, but my favorite had to be the Blue Willow Bars. It reminded me of a cream cheese blondie, extra rich and extra delicious.

If you are ever in the area or just in the mood for some good Southern cookin’ be sure to check out this hidden gem, just be sure to arrive hungry!

(Tip: Prices are much lower on weeknights and during lunch.) 

Today was a big day for Mr. Blue Eyed Yonder.  He was part of an interview team at work for an exciting potential project. If awarded this project, it will be the first in which he will serve as Superintendent, a big step and a great opportunity.

I wanted him to have a happy morning and start the day off right, so I decided to wake up extra early and surprise him with breakfast.

My boss recently told me that his Dad never gets nervous in interviews or presentations because he always says to himself, “What’s the worse that can happen? They can’t eat you!” I thought that was such a funny story and a great way to put things in perspective.  I wanted to put a smile on Mr. Blue Eyed Yonder’s face and give him that little extra boost of courage. I knew that little reminder sticking out of a hot bowl of oatmeal would do just the trick.