Our son, Brad, standing in part of the lobby of the Gaylord Opryland Hotel
When my youngest son, Brad, was in the eleventh grade he participated in the FBLA(future business leaders of America) competition. He entered Banking/Finance and won first place at the regional level, then later at the state level. Winning first place at the state level, is quite an accomplishment in itself, but it also qualified him to compete in Nationals which were held in Nashville, Tennessee.
The national competition was held during the summer and as Brad’s parents, we were allowed to attend the competition with him and his teacher. It just so happened that Brad’s teacher is my second cousin! The four of us loaded up in her mini van and left for Nashville–a place that I had always wanted to go. The trip was quite enjoyable–especially since we all knew each other.
We had accommodations at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel. What a beautiful place that is! It was worth the trip, just to see that hotel. I’ve never seen anything like that in my whole life! That is also where the competition was held. We had a three night stay at that luxurious hotel. There was lots of free time during our stay, because there were lots of different competitions going on and we had to wait until Brad’s was held. There was plenty to see and do at the hotel.
A boat ride goes all around the indoor courtyard of the hotel
While staying in Nashville, we visited a very large water park–the first one our family had ever been to. We also went to see the Grand Ole Opry, toured the Country Music Hall of Fame, toured Ryman’s Auditorium(home of the original Opry), ate at the Hard Rock Cafe, and took a tour of the country music star’s homes. I was thrilled to get to see where Alan Jackson lives–he’s my favorite country singer! ( I was once lucky enough to have 2nd row seats to one of his concerts!)
One day we even drove over to Memphis and visited Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland. I never in a million years dreamed that I’d get to tour Elvis’ former home! It was very unusual…like stepping back in time. Everything in the home is the same way it was so many years ago when Elvis died, and I can remember when those things were the style…like when avocado green was the “rage”. We toured his airplane with the gold sink and his museum as well. We saw his pink Cadillac! There were many interesting things in his museum. We also saw Elvis’ grave.
Graceland...The former home of Elvis Presley
Brad didn’t place in the national competition, and ended up picking up a stomach bacteria that haunted him for weeks after the trip, but we sure did have a great time on our free trip to Nashville!
How about you, where did you go on your favorite trip? Leave a comment telling me about it, or anything else that is on your mind, for a chance to win this week’s prize.
This week's Christmas gift bag
This week’s prize is a gift bag containing a Christmas kitchen towel, a matching dish cloth, and a red set of Christmas cookie cutters–all tied up with a raffia bow. This set is just what you need to kick off the Christmas season in your kitchen!
I will be taking comments all weekend. On Monday I will choose a winner via Random.org. Good luck to everyone who comments. Feel free to leave more than one comment, I don’t mind. Thanks to all who participate, and thanks to all who stop by…
Reflections...by Kathy 
I went on a blog hop and found out about another JDaniel. Thanks for stopping by! We have loads of JDaniels in my family. Four to be exact.
My favorite trip was when I went to DC. I loved that you could walk everywhere (once you got out of the traffic). We were even able to take a tour of the White House!
I would love to visit DC one day. I’d love to tour the White House and see the Smithsonian Institute. Thanks for sharing! Kathy
Favorite trip? The one my hubby and I took last year for our 10th anniversary to Lake Tahoe. Just me and him and lots of time spent together. The most relaxing and fun trip ever!
Your trip sounds delightful. Anytime you can get away and spend time with hubby is a good time! On our 10th anniversary my hubby and I had a 3 year old and a new born…Thanks for commenting, Kathy
Three and half years ago I went to California. I wnet to see my dad for the first time in 22 years. I was so glad to get to know him, and to let him know that I had forgiven him. We had 2 1/2 years with each other before he died and I am so very thankful for our time.
What a nice story! I was given a second chance to spend time with my dad, also, after he nearly died. I wouldn’t take anything for that chance now that he’s gone. Thanks for sharing. Kathy
My favorite vacation was this year actually. We went on a cruise in Janruary. My first sruise and I loved it already planning next years.
I have to say I just love the Santa bag it’s so adoarable and I bet what is inside is also.
My favorite trip was visiting Williamsburg for my 13th birthday. I had read and dreamed about it for many years; and my parents scrimped and saved so they could surprise me! I loved the carriage rides, the beautiful scenery, the historical interpreters…pretty much, everything! I think, it was what fueled my desire to be a history major more than anything. 🙂
What a sweet story! That sounds like a great trip, too. Thanks for the comment, Kathy
My favorite Trip was going to St. Louis with my Hubby this summer for our 8th wedding anniversary!! It was so much fun to go by ourselves — we almost didn’t know what to do without 4 kids in tow…but we “managed” lol! We didn’t do the touristy things– we stayed at a bed and breakfast in Lafayette Square and went to the local pubs, farmer’s markets, wineries and a concert in the park. It was the best vacation that we have ever taken! So relaxing and with 4 kids…just what we needed!! Thanks for the giveaway…I like the creative way that you did this!! A far cry from enter and move on. I loved it!!
Have a great weekend!!
That sounds like a perfect trip…just relaxing and getting away alone! Thanks for the comments and for hosting the giveaway link! Kathy
My favorite trip was with my husband to Maui for our one year anniversary. My grandma had just passed away and the time for us to get away was just perfect. We loved enjoying the gorgeous creation around us as we explored the island from beaches to volcanoes to rainforest-like greenery. Amazing!
Thanks for the opportunity!
Oh, what a heavenly sounding trip! I’ve always dreamed of going there! Now for the good news that Random.org chose you as this week’s winner!!! All I need is your address and I will put your gift bag in the mail! Congratulations and thanks for commenting! Kathy
my favorite vacation was my honeymoon me and my husband went to orilla ontario and to the casino out there it was so much fun
My favorite trip? Hmm, I think it must be when my family took a trip to Scotland, Ireland and Whales. Not only was it beautiful but I got to learn about my heritage and trace back my family’s name hundreds of years!
I forgot to mention how beautiful that santa is in the bag! I just love it!