I borrowed this headline from the National Scenic Byways program. I’m not sure if they are using it anymore, but I think it’s exactly what the folks along Alabama’s Coastal Connection are saying to the world as we launch our byway here on the coast. Sure we have some big stories that lots of people know and want to know more about, notably the Battle of Mobile Bay Civil War story of Fort Morgan and Fort Gaines. Many know that we’ve got a regionally famous beach vacation destination in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Some even know about birding on Dauphin Island or Jubilees on the Eastern Shore of the bay. But there are so many more stories to tell. So many experiences to share. So many connections to make. If you take the time to come closer.

I was lucky enough a while back to spend a weekend taking photographs at a workshop at the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. It’s one of less than thirty such reserves around the country and its shining star is its Pitcher Plant bog. We got some great pictures of those carnivorous beauties, posing proudly in the bog. But because we were in the company of a local native plant expert, we saw so much more than a normal stroll along the boardwalk usually offers. We took a closer look.

Sundew

Sundews, which are about three inches in diameter and very low to the ground, are plants I would have passed over, if not stepped on, without even noticing. But upon closer look, these are amazing little plants! And very photogenic, too. And they are everywhere! But I’d never noticed them before.

orchidA plant that’s much more rare is the little orchid also pictured here. Among the multitude of Pitcher Plants, native grasses, pine seedlings, mushrooms and yes, Sundews, covering several acres, there was one of these. And because we took the time to take a closer look, we learned the story of this rare beauty, as well.

Plants or photography may not be your thing, but I know you can find something that interests you here, if you’ll take a closer look. So, as Alabama’s Coastal Connection joins the collection of nationally designated scenic byways, those of us who live and work here are sending an invitation to travelers out there to come and explore our byway. Come closer and hear our stories. We hope you’ll find a connection here and end up with some stories of your own.