Blog Post, Southern Thing Column

Yes, Atticus Finch, you can choose your family

Below is an excerpt of a column that originally appeared on It's a Southern Thing. Click here to be directed to the full column now. Her voice was low but sweet. It seemed too hoarse for the tiny body it came from, as if it had flowed over gravel and sandpaper, smoothed out with maybe… Continue reading Yes, Atticus Finch, you can choose your family

Southern Thing Column

The intriguing Ace of Clubs House

Below is a brief excerpt from my 2020 book, "A Guide to the South's Quirkiest Roadside Attractions." It is a Books-a-Million exclusive and can be purchased in stores or on the website here. The intriguing name for this house comes from the fact that it is shaped like a club, with three octagonal wings and… Continue reading The intriguing Ace of Clubs House

Southern Thing Column

We’re losing our handwriting … and a little piece of ourselves

Below is an excerpt from a column initially published on It's a Southern Thing. Click here to be directed to the full column now. On my daughter’s wedding day, she carried a gorgeous bouquet with a special tag attached. The small piece of leather, tied to the bouquet with a ribbon, was made by her… Continue reading We’re losing our handwriting … and a little piece of ourselves

Southern Thing Column

What is a Southern trifle and why is it called that?

Below is an excerpt from a column that appeared on It's a Southern Thing (SouthernThing.com). To go directly to the full column, click here. Not long ago, I mentioned the word "trifle" in a column. As in, the dessert kind of trifle. I don't get to have it often but it is definitely a favorite… Continue reading What is a Southern trifle and why is it called that?