Each month, we highlight a new individual or couple who has made the decision to retire in Mississippi. This month's spotlight is on Meridian newcomers, Janet and Tom McBrien.

The McBriens moved to Meridian in 1998 when Tom was transferred from Herndon, VA. Janet had already retired from a position with the State Health Department in Woodbridge, VA. They had the choice of moving to Dallas, TX or Meridian, MS. In their mind there was no question about where they wanted to live. Tom had worked with numerous people from the Meridian area in his occupation as a flight simulator manager and he had heard a lot of great things about Meridian.

Janet and Tom had always talked about opening a bed & breakfast in Virginia, so when they looked for a location in Meridian but just couldn't find one, their realtor told them she knew of a great place but it wasn't for sale. Lo and behold the house came available in September 2000 and they opened their dream B&B in January 2001. The name of the B&B is The Lion and Harp at Oak Knoll. The Lion part of the name came from Janet's ancestry in the United Kingdom and the Harp part of the name came from Torn's ancestry in Ireland.

They both love life in Meridian. Tom retired again in January 2002 and works full time for Lockheed Martin as a flight simulator instructor.

Janet works full time in the B&B which is where they happen to live. They both agree Meridian is a great place to live and they are extremely happy with their decision to come to Meridian. Some of the things they love about the beautiful city, and are happy to tell their guest about, are the small town environment but big town amenities, low crime, great weather (no snow), non-existant traffic jams and the lush, green landscape. They agree that the community spirit of Meridian is a big draw as well as the overall friendliness of the city and her residents.

Being retired and running a B & B is a lot of hard work but they find time to be involved in the Lifetime Quest program at Meridian Community College, as well as, being members of the Meridian Little Theatre. In addition to housing guests they host community events at their historical home, which was built in 1890. They also host weddings and receptions from time to time.

Janet and Tom plan to stay in Meridian for at least another 10-15 years, or until they just can't keep up the B&B, then you never know where they'll end up.