90 years young!

Yesterday, Grandpa Jake Smith turned 90! Anthony, Melanie, and I left for Mississippi around 7:30 to attend the family celebration.  First, we toured the old Southern mansion-style Welcome Center at the Tom Beville Lock and Dam. Chandeliers dangled elegantly from the high ceilings; just my style! Unfortunately, the old steam-powered dredge boat that is dry-docked nearby was closed for maintenance, but we did walk all around it. The river was quite dead also; we were dissapointed that no boats came through the lock and dam while we were there. Nevertheless, it was all quite fascinating, and Grandpa really enjoyed it! We chowed down at Ryan's for a late lunch, then went to Oakwood Cottages, and just hung out for awhile. All too soon, it was time to be back on the road to Florida! Twas a fun, family day; but we spent just as much time in the Duramax as we did celebrating!