(Dr. Lucy (You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown) – Clark Gesner
First it was Daphne.
Now it’s Fairhope.
We had visited Fairhope February 1st and loved it so much (even though it was freezing cold) that we decided to go again. The weather was now so much warmer.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairhope,_Alabama
There was an interesting article on Fairhope in the New York Times on March 3rd. It started with “A group of populist reformers from up North arrive in Alabama in November 1894 with a radical plan. Their mission: to establish an experimental utopian community inspired by the economist Henry George whose wildly popular book “Progress and Poverty” influenced readers around the world in search of more equitable societies.”
Our first stop was Page and Palette, an independent coffee/bookstore that has stood near the center of town for over 50 years.
The bar and event space hosts eclectic audiences for readings and performances several evenings each week in addition to being a coffee shop. I absolutely love this idea.
The present owner’s grandmother opened Page and Palette as an art supply and bookstore in 1968. The coffee shop and bar/event space was added in 1997.
Who remembers “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”? I do. I do. That’s why this grabbed my attention.
On Tuesdays and Thursdays for the past decade, two longtime residents have operated “Sonya and Nancy’s Friendly Advice” booth inside the coffee shop, sitting behind a wooden booth inspired by Lucy and giving advice for a nickel per customer. They brainstormed this idea a few years ago when the shop was struggling and they wanted to help attract people to help keep it in business. What thoughtful ladies.
Now anyone who knows me knows my intense love of musicals so of course I had to go and try this out. What fun!
What a lovely lady. so personable. She was meant for this. I’m so glad I went and met her. Plus the Chai Latte I had was delicious.
From here we walked maybe 20 steps to The French Quarter.
It was a peaceful yet still busy spot with unique shops, galleries, and eateries. Lots of people were sitting outside and enjoying a meal in the cobblestone courtyard.
After having been to The French Quarter in New Orleans I thought how amazing that Fairhope had one as well. That was until I read the sign that said it was established in 1992. Well sir. Imagine that. Fairhope’s French Quarter mirrors the brick and ironwork, courtyards, and inviting passageways of New Orleans. Not historical like New Orleans but a great idea.
We walked around the town for awhile and then headed back.
Some more photos from Fairhope.
Cute sign outside one of the dress shops. I’m sure this speaks to lots of us. 😉
Nite y’all 😴
Debi's Junket Journal 