There is a ferry near Cave-In-Rock IL that crosses to KY -- but that wouldn't really help in a trip from here to Sikeston. What we usually do is cross the bridge from Wickliffe to Cairo, then cross the bridge from Cairo to Missouri -- then drive the trek to Sikeston. An alternate trip is to drive north from Paducah to Herrin, then south from Herrin to Sikeston.
There's really no good way to do it.
You'd have to know my aunt to fully appreciate her comments -- she was a very *proper* lady!
Glad you arrived safe and sound. Enjoy your stay, and keep us posted on your activities!! Any Irises blooming there yet?