When your favorite things blend together, magic happens. That’s just what my husband, Blake Shawl, did in the ’90s as a pitboss with Dixie Drippin’s Barbecue team. He tried a lot of sauces and seasonings from the world-class masters of that Memphis in May Barbecue Competition era. He followed their advice, picked out flavors he liked best, and over a few years developed what customers now rate 5-stars. He also earned 11th place twice and 12th once in the World Championship Memphis in May rib competitions with his special blends and won numerous other awards at smaller competitions. Those days were a blend of our favorite things …… special friendships made around the smokers and the best food in the world. Blake’s unique blends are now a part of the sweet, savory magic that family and friends share at cookouts and meals across the United States. Dixie Drippin’s Barbecue Sauce and Seasoning … simply delicious!
Our Family
Two boys
- Daniel, an archaeologist who earned his bachelor’s at Mississippi State University and is now working toward his master’s at University of Mississippi
- Zachary, who is a student at Mississippi State University working toward a degree in Business Management
Grandanimals:
- Pre, a Jack Russell mix, who was abandoned by his dad Daniel when he left for college
- Kitty, a male cat that fetches, who was abandoned by Daniel when he moved to UM
- Tulip, a beautiful, loveable Black Lab mix, abandoned in the woods and rescued by Daniel
Us:
- Blake is edging toward retirement at Alcorn County Electric Power Company and has worked many ice storms, tornadoes, and even hurricanes over the years. On occasion, he still enjoys cooking for friends and family. My big burly fellow has a huge heart and is the most chivalrous man I know. During one delivery trip, we stopped at a visitor’s center. It was raining, but Blake grabbed an umbrella and headed out. Seconds after he went out of sight, he returns sharing his umbrella with an older woman. He was getting wet, but she was so appreciative as he opened the door to her, parked next to ours.
- Sherry, that’s me. I am now a schoolteacher and have my master’s in special education and my National Board Certification. I have taught 7th and 8th graders for the last 15 years, and I’m just crazy enough to love that age group! I am a former reporter, also, and my bachelor’s and associates degrees are in public relations and marketing. I always say, “You never know what you’ll turn out to be.” My boys consider me to be a little bit of a hippy.