#72 Mar 2015 Mobile, Alabama

Near Mobile we stayed in a park that is also a small farm. It was very peaceful until the sun rose. Then the rooster crowed, the geese honked and hundreds of birds greeted the new day. It was wonderful.

These domestic ducks as well as chickens wandered around the RVs quite oblivious to the people.

These two Canada Geese and one Snow Goose were together constantly. Apparently the different breeds mingle in their wintering grounds then go to their separate breeding grounds when they head north.

We explored Bellingrath Gardens and Home. In 1903 Walter Bellingrath purchased a franchise to bottle Coca-Cola in southern Alabama. The Mobile Coca-Cola Bottling Company became one of the most successful in the United States. Ralph only drinks Coke so this story is dear to his heart.

Walter and his wife Bessie created beautiful gardens around their home. In 1934 they opened the gardens to the public and since their deaths a foundation has continued to maintain the gardens and opened their home to public tours.

In this climate gardens always have a pop of colour just around the corner.

The magnolias were at their peak.

Walter and Bessie were from humble families and they enjoyed sharing their success. They supported local businesses and families in many subtle ways, especially during the Depression Years. They entertained local people and were very down to earth, however, Bessie liked a beautiful home. The dining room was formal.

This silver and crystal room shows the extent of the table settings. Every day Bessie selected a different china pattern for each meal of the day.

This family dining room was their favorite with a view of the gardens and the river. It is so inviting and peaceful.

Looking into or from the courtyard is lovely.

The Asian Garden is a mix of Chinese and Japanese styles.

This sign says Coco-Cola in Japanese.

A garden always provides surprises and is a lovely way to brighten an otherwise dull, cloudy day.

We only saw a very small part of Alabama but enough to remember an important family in the Mobile area and sense their contribution to the community.