You've got to see this! We're overnighting at a Mississippi Welcome Center (Rest Area)on I-59/20 about 8 miles from the Alabama/Mississippi border. The snow has disappeared, we've driven in sun. Phoned ahead to be sure we could stay, and Security assured us that we can. They are the essence of hospitality here. Southern hospitality, as in an effort is made. You'll see what I mean when you see the Welcome Center for yourself. I'm on my slow little laptop, the sun is sinking, it's cold, and to use my computer I'm sucking power from the house batteries. Our lullaby tonight will be idling trucks. Many.

It strikes me that I'm lucky to be living Up North, where hospitality is less demanding of perfection in every detail—although genuinely warm from my experience. Still, what a thrill—here by the side of the highway. Walking up, coming into the glow.