Just spent five days in Nashville accompanying Paul to a reunion of his fellow Navy cryptologists. Nashville is definitely a music city and a visit on Saturday evening to the Grand Ole Opry was definitely a highlight of the trip. The program takes place over a 2 1/2 hour period and is divided into four sections with each "hosted" by a well known country singer followed by two equally popular solo singers or groups doing two numbers each. I didn't necessarily recognize the names of all the various entertainers who were all great, but I sure could sing along with all the songs! The big name for the evening was the final entertainer, Ronnie Millsap. That was one name I knew, although I had no idea he is blind and plays a mean piano as he sings.
While Nashville is not exactly a gourmet restaurant town, a bunch of us made it "downtown" to lunch at Rippy's one day for their famous barbecue and plenty of country music, then walked across Broadway to Tootsie's for more music and something to wash it all down.
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| Memories! |
Speaking of liquid refreshment, we signed up for a tour of the Jack Daniel Distillery preceded by lunch at Miss Bobo's Boarding House. Miss Bobo's excellent chef makes liberal use of what is smilingly referred to as "the local product", because oddly enough, Nashville is located in a dry county. I had seconds on the delicious apple slices sautéed in "the product" that accompanied my fried okra, fried chicken and some kind of pork. No wonder I gained three pounds on the trip. And oh yes, the tour of the Distillery was really interesting with an adorable young guide showing us the ropes.
Enjoyed meeting many of Paul's Navy mates who knew him best as their Master Chief during his 22 years in the service. Lots of "war stories" and reminiscences. It was truly a fun trip and I was honored to be invited.
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| Hangin" out with Elvis. |
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| Paul says hello to Jack. |
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| Music at lunch at Rippy's |
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| Ronnie Millsap at the Grand Ole Opry |
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