Camellia

March 1, 2026

Just before leaving the Perry, GA, area, we were able to meet up with Keith and Carol. Keith and Harold worked together for several years. The American Camellia Society, just about 15 minutes away, was having a flower show. We thought we'd give it a try. We walked into a room filled with camellia blooms in tiny vases and cups of water. Shades of white, pink, and red were everywhere. We certainly were surprised by the variety of cultivars. 

We learned the difference between protected (essentially a greenhouse) and unprotected growth and marveled that blooms from nearby states made the trip unscathed. 

Then we walked the gardens. Many of the trees were a bit past their prime, the ground littered with blooms. Still, plenty of blooms and fragrance made for an enjoyable stroll before heading off to dinner.

 Where Are We Going Next?

Plains and Trains

February 28, 2026

We noted that the SAM Shortline Excursion Train was about 30 minutes away from our campsite. They had a day trip to Plains, GA, home of the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. So we decided that the train would be a relaxing way to visit the town. 

Though Billy Carter's service station was closed, and the former president's home was off limits, we enjoyed walking around the block of shops, the depot campaign headquarters, and the old high school. Jimmy Carter presented himself as the everyday American, and Plains is certainly represented as such.

The train volunteers talk up the soft-serve peanut ice cream. We did enjoy it, but I think both of us enjoyed the salted, fried peanuts even more. We should have bought more than one bag!

Oh, and the reason the old depot was selected as the campaign headquarters...it was the only available building at the time that had a bathroom! 

Pecan orchard

That's pretty much the whole town

Campaign Headquarters

Billy's Service Station

Peanuts waiting to be hulled

Yum!

Where Are We Going Next?