Here is the South we spend a lot of time on our porches, and whether it be a front porch or a back porch the enjoyment is the same! We love a good rocking’ chair, some sweet tea, and a good book. We love company, good food and family. So, when you put all that together on a porch, well it’s simply southern bliss!
So what makes a porch so great? Take a walk around any small town in the South and you will see hammocks, porch swings, rocking chairs, and of course the Joggle Board. Let me guess, “what’s a joggle board” is your next question.
It is said that if someone offers you a seat on his or her joggling board, it is considered an invitation for friendship. The construction of the joggle board (also called a joggle bench or courting bench) allows for gentle swaying and rocking. The term “courting benches” was also established in the 19 century. According to the legend, if you had a joggling board on your front porch you would never have an unwed daughter. Young couples would sit on the bench and “joggle”. A joggle is created from the rockers cut into the stands and the large span between each rocker. The male would sit on one side of the bench, while the female sat on the other. Each would “joggle” guiding themselves to the middle.
Our porch is one of my families favorite spots to end a day. We added some of the good ol’ Southern favorites ,but my favorite is our ” haint” blue ceiling. We Southerners have many legends and the legends of the haint spirits was once one taken seriously in South Carolina. Painting your porch ceiling blue was a way to protect your home. I personally think I don’t need any more bad luck and I like the blue ceiling soooo blue it is at my house! Another good reason for the blue is it is said to keep spiders, wasps, and mosquitos away. So what are you waiting for? Get your paint rollers and brushes out!
History and legends are great but don’t forget to make your porch your own. Add your favorite colors, flowers, make a spot for the cat to nap, and personalize it!
