Well, I've only been here 24 hours and already I've seen, eaten and done so much! I am blessed to share this first day with my friend Sylvia who moved here recently - she has quickly learned the finer aspects of Southern Hospitality. My first meal included eggs, bacon and grits at a local restaurant, then we ventured over the line into South Carolina for boiled peanuts, raw peanuts, pecans and amazing fresh peaches. The weather has been hot and humid - thank goodness for a/c!
The city is abuzz with DNC happenings, there are signs and 'welcome!'s everywhere. The airport had very festive greeters and everything went smoothly, even when my bag didn't initially show up on the baggage carousel. Last night was the Media Welcome Event at a huge entertainment complex that used to be an abandoned manufacturing area. Several buildings were redeveloped into venues and we took in everything from jazz, to country to R&B to an 80's cover band to comedy. We were right up front for Kathy Mattea and also caught part of Anthony Hamilton. There was more eating as well, collard greens and quail, and crab cakes with cheese grits which were great (ok, the crab cakes were great). I also tried pork bellies and some heirloom tomotoes with gourmet salt.
So far, I am having a blast. The 'fun' continues for two more days with the events gradually becoming more serious/focused as it gets closer to the offical start on Tuesday. This morning we are off to church at Elevation www.elevationchurch.org. God Bless! Or, as they say here: (and you HAVE to say it with a Southern drawl) Well, bless your heart!
