Destination: Nashville, Tennessee

Last December, I had the opportunity to visit a dear couple from my mission, my Mamma and Pappa Smith, at their ranch near Nashville, Tennessee. I wanted to share a little about the history of the city, my trip, and about fun things to do in and around Nashville. Keep in mind, I'm no travel blogger, nor will I EVER claim to be. This is simply a fun way to reminisce about my trip and share it with you all! 

History

First off, Nashville is the capital of Tennessee. It's located along the Cumberland River, a tributary of the Ohio River. The city was founded in 1779 and was named after Francis Nash, a famous Revolutionary war hero. Of course, the city is now famous for country music and country music stars, making it "Music City U.S.A."

Nashville LDS Temple

After I landed at the Nashville airport, we headed straight for the Nashville LDS temple. One of the signature items of my Bucket List is to visit all of the LDS temples in the world. The problem with this goal is that there are LDS temples ALL over the world, and they are constantly building more. It never hurts to try, right? To see a complete list, visit this link. 

Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center

After a quick stop to see the outside of the temple, we drove over to the Gaylord. I was surprised and excited to be going, as I had visited a Gaylord previously on a trip to Dallas in 2012 (I'll post about that sometime as well). Anyway...we went inside to look at the beautiful Christmas decorations the hotel puts up. With several waterfalls, birds flying through, fish swimming through the water, and a variety of vegetation growing, this would be such a fun place to stay! And at Christmas time, it was even more beautiful!

Downtown Nashville

After our fun at the Opyrland, we walked around downtown Nashville, watching the street performers, saying hello the Hard Rock Cafe, visiting the small gift shops, and checking out the Record Shops. What a vibrant and full of life place! I can't imagine the increased vibrancy during a music festival or even the night life. I would definitely check out the Country Music Hall of Fame if you're there! 

Life on the ranch

Easily my favorite part of the trip was visiting with the Smiths at home: baking brownies, playing with the dogs, curling up in front of the fireplace, playing the Wii, watching tv, and helping chop down a tree. Yes, you heard me right. I was inaugurated into the use of a chainsaw by Pappa Smith while Mamma Smith sat on the porch hoping and praying that neither one of us got killed. I must admit, I put a very small dent in that very large tree, but I'm proud of my contribution :D

Christmas along the Cumberland

To end my stay in the good ole' state of Tennessee, we headed back to downtown Nashville to walk along the Cumberland River and look at the beautiful Christmas lights the city put up. Beautiful work! 

I loved my time with the Smith's and I loved my time in Nashville. I hope there will be a next time :)