I wonder if you may be on the right track regarding your location as relates to the atmospheric conditions. In Montana our humidity is quite low therefore the "Big Sky" effect. I think in Georgia you deal with a great deal more humidity. Obviously I don't know much about this but it makes me wonder if that is the problem you are experiencing.
Fun hearing about the histories of the avatars. Spent about 10 years of my vacation time building a rock house. Absolutely crazy project. My mom took this about the 3rd year with a P&S. The second is the house as it currently sits. I think it will probably never be done but it keeps me off the streets.