visiting the Southern USA

13 July 2011

by Sheralyn Packer

Jackson, MS

When we arrived in Jackson, Jeff, a dear friend of Robs’ and now mine, was waiting for us. It was a very warm typical sunny day for Jackson, and back home in Beaudesert. We had time to give Janice the female half of our host a hug before other guests arrived for July 4th celebration dinner. I enjoyed eating hot tomato grits. A highlight for me was lighting fireworks after dinner which included a huge rocket. Gee... I did appreciate the fireworks that lasted at least an hour of lighting and letting them go. Once the clock hit midnight we realised it was time to head for bed whilst looking forward to a sleep in.

Day 11 - Monday: Jackson

I woke with the smell of fresh blueberry muffins and coffee. I also enjoyed my first real cup of tea with fresh berries and yoghurt. A leisurely morning with Jeff and Janice was followed by a tour of Jackson and a late lunch at an Australian Outback Restaurant. The welcoming plate of tempura baked sweet onion and hot bread was placed on the table, followed by salad which needed to be eaten before your steak and potato arrives.

We then headed to a local baseball team game for the nights’ entertainment in particular the singing of ‘going out to the ball game’. It was interesting to observe the crowds standing and reciting of their allegiance with their country, and yes, their arm was across their heart - even three year olds were loyal.... how sweet???? Another late night was head so another sleep in was required.

Day 12 – Tuesday: Jackson

Rob was invited to spend the day with Baxter and friends which allowed me to have a day shopping with Janice. Cracker Barrel cooked beautiful pancakes to start the day, had great gifts to buy and wonderful rocking chairs to sit in and relax. The only difficulty was deciding which one, as there were twenty to chose from.

It was sooooo wonderful to meet Beth Kruger over dinner at their home. Baxter those steaks were simply melt in ya mouth.

Day 13 – Wednesday: Jackson

We packed up our gear and loaded it into the car so we could enjoy a most relaxing day at freshwater pools. We also chilled with Dre and her two boys Logan and Holden. It was much cooler there but the water was NOT freezing which enabled us to play in pools and swim all day getting some exercise. We enjoyed a picnic lunch catered for by our most amazing friend and host Janice. After Rob had spotted 2 copper head snakes it was time to head upstream where I was promised that they will not swim upstream......thankfully that was true. (there's a photo coming - Rob)

Another couple were keen for us to stay with them Dre’ and John and their two boys. I even got to do laps in their wonderful pool and play and encourage Janices’ three year old grandson Rylan to jump in. A wonderful meal of spicy prawns, corn on the cob, herbed bread and jacket potatoes, laughter and fun was had by all six of us. Unfortunately the lightening bugs did not perform tonight and we only spied a dozen and none to put in my jar.