The Yanks Are Coming!

Household buzzing today. Only a few hours left to spiff 'n' polish before some Yankee friends invade.

Assuming travel from last night's stop in West Memphis, AR came off okay, the Mom 'n' Daughter pair from Pennsylvania are well on their way. Should be here in time for mid-afternoon tea and supper by 7.

"Gosh!" said Mom Lucy. "The Mississippi River looked like an ocean when we crossed it yesterday."

"All I know is I hope you have flowers blooming," Daughter Linda said. "Our spirits need lifting. We've been rained on every day since we left Pennsylvania."

No promises, Ladies. Mississippi weather--like weather everywhere this time of year--is a contrast of joy and disappointment almost daily. Morning sun gives way to afternoon clouds, and thunderstorms develop.

But not to worry. The Natchez Pilgrimage--daytime tour of antebellum mansions, and nighttime costumed pageantry--is what we've planned for our friends' stay. Even though Ol' Man River is expected to crest at 54' the day we're there, we'll be high enough over the water ("Natchez on the Hill") to enjoy the spectacle.

Spectacle? Yes. Not only the Natchez homes, but also the grounds to look forward to. The camellias, azaleas and other reliable bloomers will make every bit of it worthwhile for our cherished Yankee invaders.