Why You Should Be Visiting Avalon
I actually can't believe I haven't written this post sooner! Shortly after Tom and I moved to Georgia all the way from the tundra Midwestern plains of Wisconsin, Avalon opened its doors. At the time, we lived a short ten minute drive away, and even though we're now about twenty-thirty minutes away, it's still always worth it to spend our time there. It's been a place that amidst a much larger, bustling city and jammed up roads, I am able to find some relief from the culture shock of Southern, city living. It's a place I feel leisurely instead of rushed. It truly is its own little oasis - a mini-city-within-a-city - if you will. It may seem sappy to love visiting essentially a mall so stinking much, but let me explain what the hype is all about.
First, here is what Avalon is, for those who aren't aware:
In the heart of Alpharetta, this sustainably designed, 86-acre development with more than 500,000 square feet of retail, a 12-screen all premium theater, a full-service hotel (coming in Phase II), Class A office, single-family residences and luxury rental homes infuses resort-level hospitality throughout a walkable, seamlessly connected community of shopping, dining, entertainment, living and working. It’s more than just another place to go, it’s a place to be—a hub of local art and activity that delivers the luxury of the modern South.
This is a place where memories are made, new traditions emerge, families gather and community happens. Take a stroll down the Boulevard, make a wish at the fountain, catch a concert, play some lawn games with the family, and drink in the beauty of every season while you experience the ultimate in shopping, dining, and just enjoying. - Avalon's website
So here's why Avalon rocks....
1. Completely (and I mean completely) dog friendly
We have been visiting Avalon and strolling its walkways for years now. Just over three months ago, we brought our sweet pup home. The thing is, there are only a few options for dog friendly locations: dog parks, trails, and neighborhoods. My problem is that I wouldn't typically walk any of our area trails without my husband. I've heard of too many attacks or bizarre scenarios that keep me away. Many neighborhoods don't have sidewalks - leaving you on the street, and dog parks are... well... less than ideal in my opinion. I thoroughly appreciate having a beautiful, clean place to walk my dog, socialize him, and have plenty to look at and browse for myself. Dogs of any size are allowed in every.single.store. In fact, they're welcomed. With treats, water bowls, and lots of belly rubs from employees and patrons alike.
2. Plenty of parking
Ever get stuck driving around parking lots, just waiting for someone to leave? Not at Avalon. Maybe some of the busier Friday or Saturday nights can get a little packed, but I've almost never been stuck waiting for a spot to open up. Oh, did I mention it's also free? They have several parking garages, and somehow they even manage to keep those sparkling clean! However, if you don't feel like parking yourself, pull up to the front concierge and use their valet service. Bonus: the valets are some of our favorite people - they're all so nice!
3. Amazing food
This place has such diverse options, that no matter what you're in the mood for, you won't have to leave. Vietnamese, burgers, seafood, hotdogs, ice cream, fro-yo, sushi, deli sandwiches, wine and cheese, Mexican, fancy-sit down, pizza, cafes, and more. And honestly, if they don't have it on the main strip, Whole Foods is on the same property and I bet they do! Our personal favorites are CRU wine bar (get a flight!), Brine seafood, Antico pizza, and Barley Garden Kitchen (mmm beer). We still have plenty more to try!
4. Clean and safe
I don't think I've ever seen a piece of trash anywhere on the ground at Avalon. Not even gum. If you've ever seen Parks and Recreation, it's almost like the park in Eagleton where they pick up trash the moment it hits the ground. I'm really not exaggerating.
5. Great location
Directly off an exit of GA 400, Avalon is easy to reach from all directions. I think being up in the northern 'burbs of Atlanta, many of us can feel separated from the main city and feel like we miss out on some of the fun culture and entertainment unless we make the trek into Buckhead, Midtown, etc. But having Avalon and all its offerings makes me feel like we don't need to have FOMO.
6. So many stores
This seems like a given since Avalon is a mall, but these beautifully manicured boulevards and landscaped patios are surrounded by some of the best outdoor shopping this area has to offer. Pottery Barn, Francesca's, J.Crew, Athleta, Urban Outfitters, Crate and Barrel, Anthropologie, Lucky Brand, Orvis, and everything in-between. I know this has become such a cliche term, but there truly is something for everyone.
7. Super family friendly
The sidewalks are long and wide, leaving plenty of room for strollers and families with little ones who need running room. The main, turfed lawn behind the concierge is often a meeting ground for young families and offers a perfect space to get out some energy! For a place that gets a lot of foot traffic, I've never found it so crowded that it feels claustrophobic or difficult to navigate, and I think that would be seen a a bonus for many families as well.
8. Loads of entertainment
Live music, holiday celebrations, activities for the whole family, lawn yoga, and so much more! Check out their event calendar for information on exclusive parties and events, as well as free events for anyone and everyone to attend. Often times, too, they have goodie bags at the ready for the first patrons to show up for various celebrations.
9. Nicest staff!
Not only is every store and restaurant filled with the kindest, most engaging employees, but the Avalon staff (concierge, valet, security, etc..) are some of the sweetest people we've met. They recognize us and some know us by name, and are always ready with a dog treat or a "Hey! Good to see you guys back - hope you have a great time here today!" They are always upbeat and ready to answer any questions or just chit chat when they're not running around keeping things in order. Even our DOG recognizes them now! (Does this tell you how much time we spend at Avalon? haha)
10. Walk and drink
This may not be very interesting or surprising to some, but Avalon allows you to grab alcoholic drinks at any of the restaurants to-go. They'll send you and your drink on your merry way to wander the shops. I love this aspect! Obviously, you have to stay on the premises of the Avalon grounds, but it feels like a little luxury to be able to sip something yummy while doing a little window shopping.
Those are just a few of the ways Avalon has won me over, and I know if you visit, it'll win you over too. It's also such a perfect spot for happy hours after work, or for freelancers like me to work remotely when the weather is nice (which is most of the time). They have free wifi all throughout the grounds and of course a plethora of places to plant yourself with your laptop, grab a cool drink, and work somewhere bright and refreshing... with your pup in tow, too! It truly is its own community and they happily welcome new faces every day of the week. In fact, if you like it so much, you can live there. They have luxury town homes and apartments that contain added amenities on top of living in an already amenity filled development. So this is my unsponsored ode to one of my favorite places to spend time, work, play, eat, and shop. I truly just appreciate what Avalon offers so much, I felt compelled to write about my fondness of it today.
Visit Avalon's website to learn more
Have you made plans to visit Avalon yet? Let me know what you think and your favorite places to eat, drink, and shop!
Satisfying Your Restlessness (Locally)
We're the restless types. I've mentioned it several times over, now, but it bears repeating.
Read more on restlessness here, here, or here.
Of course we don't all have the time, money, or careful planning skills it takes to create a stellar trip three times a year, so how can we create the illusion of a trip to satiate that desire in between the big, carefully planned trips? Today, I'm going to cover ways to get creative in your own area. Whether at home, or out and about. Sometimes it may take some imagination, but as adults, how often do we exercise that part of our brains anymore? If you have kids, maybe a little more often, but still. Here are a few ideas - some of which I have yet to try - to help satiate your specific wanderlust.
Itching to visit another country?
Try creating your picture of that visit in your own home or city. Italy on the brain? Pretend you're there! Get dressed up, find a non-chain Italian restaurant or pizzeria, order the wine, and enjoy. If you're at home, put on an Italian lute music station, prepare and cook up your favorite Italian dish, open a bottle of Chianti, dance in the kitchen with your spouse, watch an Italian film, grab some gelato, and have fun pretending!
Been wanting something French, but don't live near a French restaurant? Croque-Monsieur sandwiches are easier than you think and soooo yummy. Do this sort of thing with any country and try to make it as authentic as you can. Indian food and a Bollywood film? Yes please!
Are you in need of a warm escape from the winter blues?
Find an indoor waterpark and spend an overnight there. How about a botanical gardens or zoo? These places need warmth for both plant and animal life to survive winter and can offer you that sweet escape, even if only for a day. You could even try a fitness center with a pool, hot tub, or sauna. Have a cool, beachy drink... even sneak one in, if you have to ;) Do you have a fireplace? Sounds cheesy, but desperate times could lead you to firing that baby up, laying out near it in a bathing suit, putting a continuous beach scene video on the TV, and enjoying a fruity drink all in your own home! Hey. Don't knock it till you've tried it. If anything, it'll give you a much needed chuckle!
Looking to get outside and take in some views?
Look up some nearby places for a hike and leave your phone behind. Are there some scenic wineries nearby? Who doesn't love some views with a nice drink? Are there any national or state parks within a short drive? Historic sites? I grew up in small town Iowa, and even there, the Native American history was very common and fascinating. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, deserts, etc... Try to go for places you've ignored for a while or were too lazy to drive to before. Go camping in your own town!
Another cheese-ball one: can you make a fire in the backyard? Or deck-out your porch or patio into a little garden escape? Fit a tent our some sleeping bags out there and take in the view of the night sky? In a little apartment I once had, my roommate and I had part of a rooftop to use, and Tom would come visit and pull all the cushions off my couch and create an outdoor bed/couch. He'd grab some beer, and we'd talk until late into the night. Throw in some lanterns or outdoor lights if you want to make it romanic-y. Sometimes we'd even walk to the nearest grocery store and pick up some ice cream for dessert.
Create your own challenges
Have you ever wondered where the best Mexican food is in your town? Spend the week trying a new place every other day and just split things to save money.
Or in one day, make it a challenge to go to different places and areas of town for different pieces: a yummy drink, a lunch to share, a place for entertainment, something sweet to eat, a scenic view, a physical activity, a place to rest for little bit, another drink stop, a place to buy a new hat, etc... make your own day, but creatively piece every little part of it together over hours and hours. It makes it almost like a scavenger hunt, but not rushed and not to win a prize. Just to be silly!
Find the open houses and estate sales
Sometimes we dream of a different house or style of home, but we wouldn't actually pursue it. So sometimes we like to just crash an open house and pretend. Or wander through an estate sale just to be nosey. Bonus points if you can actually find an item worth buying.
Go on a drive
A drive in itself probably won't help your wanderlust, but it very well may take you somewhere you wouldn't have expected. On one of my restless drives (with Tom) we ended up at a harbor almost two hours away from home late at night. We walked the dark paths along the docks and listened to the boats lapping air and water on the waves. We saw the shops of the main street only lit by the streetlights, and tried to picture them in the daylight. It gave us a little sense of wonder and a break from the mundane. And obviously we stopped for ice cream so...
Start planning a trip
This sounds like it would make things worse, but truly. Just the act of planning a trip can satiate some of that desire to "go." It can get you in that dreamy state, but also quench a little of the desire once you look at the prices and all the little details.
What else would you add?
Travel Playlist + Wishlist
Since you've heard me talk about restlessness, as well as ways to remedy this without constantly jumping ship, I thought I'd give you a playlist and a dreamy little wishlist of places to visit. Whether by plane, train, roadway, or boat, here are some places I hope to get to in the next century.
But first, some music to set the tone:
(Be aware, I'm big on indie, folksie music with a small smattering of pop. I really held myself back and somehow only included one Coldplay track)
Now for the travel wishlist:
Greece
This has always been my number one. I just feel like the culture, food, views, and history would suit my interests more than anywhere else. Photos of Santorini give me all the heart eyes.
The Italian, French, and UK countrysides
Sure, Rome, Paris, and London would be neat, but I have so much more fascination for the true culture of these places. I picture those larger cities as the equivalent of people visiting New York City and saying they've been to the U.S. They missed the plains, the mountain ranges, desert climates, etc... So if I visit these places, I want to see the real deal.
Alaskan cruise
Honestly, I have no desire to go on any other cruise. I've just heard the Alaskan cruises are phenomenal. They're the only ones I've never heard negative reviews on. Plus, I feel like the fish would be really delicious onboard.
India
Since moving to Atlanta, Tom and I have met a lot of people from India (and we've also fallen in love with their food). Since college, I have wanted to learn more about Indian culture, and we both decided a trip to India would be incredible. On one condition: we'd have to go with Indian friends who could show us real India. We would feel so lost and nervous without a guide of some sort (language barriers, etc..) so having a trusted person there to show us their home country would be fun. Probably for them too!
Australia and New Zealand
My mom was born in Australia so seeing that area would be really amazing. New Zealand, I gotta admit, because I'm a total nerd and I want to see all the Lord of Rings stuff. HAHA. Okay, and it looks so breathtaking.
The East coast of the U.S.
Now that we live near the East coast, I'm hoping we can roadtrip it all the way up through Maine one of these days! There are only about a thousand stops I'd want to make, but I think it would be such a memorable trip. Especially with that playlist!
Finland
I am half Finnish, and I have intense pride about it. Suomalainen sisu! This was a phrase my grandma taught us that is loosely translated into "Finnish guts" or "Finnish perseverance" and I love saying it :) I think the Finnish language is so beautiful and I can always tell when I hear a Finnish accent, because my grandma had one. Here's a video of some guy speaking in Finnish (I believe he's listing 101 reasons why being Finnish is great... but I could be wrong).
The Seychelles Islands
There are numerous beach destinations around the world, but The Seychelles have always drawn me in. It's definitely not the cheapest option, but I can imagine the views would be worth it!
I could add hundreds of other places, so maybe I'll have to release my destination wishlist in volumes. What about you? Where would you most like to travel?
Fall Packing List
About four years ago, I would have happily joined the ranks of fashion blogging. Back then I had a closet filled with all things wild and crazy and I had no fear of fashion faux pas... often times to my everlasting shame (meaning: some really weirdddd outfits). However, nowadays I hold more to a capsule wardrobe - not because I necessarily want to, but because I don't tend to keep more than I need in terms of things. Minimalism is a way of life that seems to naturally suit me.
That being said, if I were to ever add fashion blogging to my little online space now, I think I would only do so in the fall.
Why?
Well because it's all things basic. It's boots, and textures, and scarves, and hats, and neutrals. It's a time of year when you can seemingly do so much, with so little. Not to mention, it's also the time of year when my little heart gets filled with happiness, and I leave summer's sweaty thoughts behind me and prance around in my pretty little boots and flowy dresses. Truly, I become an entirely different person.
Today, I'm sharing with you a few outfits I packed for the trip I'm currently on. All these pieces are great for mixing and matching and can be dressed up or down with more layers, different shoes, or added accessories. Keep an eye on my Instagram and maybe you'll catch me wearing them. I'll try to come back later on and link back to some of these items, but majority of them can be found at Old Navy and Target.
Would you all like to see more fashion related posts by season? Maybe a few posts on my versions of capsule wardrobes? Let me know in the comments!
Savannah, GA
If you caught my last post, I just turned twenty-seven. Since I'm not much for 'things,' Tom took me to Savannah, Georgia for a (way too fast) overnight getaway. Almost two years ago, we stopped in Savannah for no more than a couple of hours for lunch on our way to Hilton Head, SC, and we've been eager to return ever since. Needless to say, it did not disappoint. Savannah is incredibly charming, slow-moving, artistic, and historical. The food is wonderful and unique, and the streets are lined with old, looming trees, dripping in beautiful Spanish moss. I would highly suggest good walking shoes - wedges and heels won't go over so well on the stone and cobblestone streets of certain areas! And it really is a very walkable city, so shoe comfort goes a long way in the longevity of your day's adventures.
Since we were only there a Friday afternoon through Saturday afternoon, we mostly focused on exploring, catching the sites, and diving into the culture. I'll list off the places we visited (both pictured and not) just to give you an idea of Savannah life.
These first photos document Friday afternoon upon arrival. Some areas have updated parking where you pay at an electronic meter, but have a little loose change on hand, because some areas still use coin operated meters.
- Lunch at Gryphon Tea Room. This place not only had that elegant feel of a southern tea room set in a historical building with a delicate menu, but some of the employees were students at SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design). If requested, they'll give you the interesting history of the building and decor, and explain the arrangement SCAD has with Gryphon.
- Next we moseyed around E. Shaver, Bookseller, kitty-corner to Gryphon, where we found the kind of books that you picture being in fictitious libraries. Like in the Beast's from Beauty and the Beast, or at Hogwarts. The familiar sorts of books along side the books that leave you wide-eyed and speechless.
- We continued to take a slow walk around the city squares, admiring the beautiful buildings and architecture, until we decided to head up to our lodging for the night. Side note: SCAD is a well known art school and the whole weekend we realized why Savannah made such a fitting backdrop for a school of that sort. The old, mixed with new, mixed with people, textures, and rich culture must be ideal for practicing the arts.
- We arrived at our Airbnb midday and promptly took a short power nap. Since we've become more avid in our use of Airbnb, we have started staying in shared spaces (versus an entire home). Here's the bedroom we rented in a house equidistant to Savannah and Tybee Island. It was a charming, clean home and those extra touches (like the complimentary bottle of wine) really make an Airbnb memorable and fun. Also memorable, is when one of the other guests walks in on you in the bathroom.. (haha it was a second after I had walked in, and was funny, not bad). Also, here's $35 off your first booking with Airbnb
- For the rest of the evening, we hit the beach on Tybee Island and talked while looking over the Atlantic and picking up a few shells. It was so relaxing, and the people watching was great. I mean come on, what else can beat the smell of the ocean and sand between your toes?
- We grabbed dinner at Tybee Island Social Club, and minus the fact that they seemed to be out of an awful lot of things, it was pretty good. Though, running out of Corona that close to the ocean is a pretty major faux pas in my book...
- After dinner, we dropped by a grocery store so I could pick out a birthday dessert because shockingly, all the bakeries on the island and in Savannah closed at 4 or 6 pm! We got back to the room around 8:30 and spent the rest of the night sipping our wine and listening to the conversations of the other guests through the paper thin walls (haha jokes jokes).
- Saturday morning was a little slow moving, but we had had one of those sleeps where you don't move once the whole night, so we were refreshed at least. However, we waited to get coffee at a coffee shop in Savannah, so it wasn't until 10am that we got to one (and there are many, thank goodness). My, were we a sight to behold. I am not exaggerating when I tell you we could hardly get a sentence out (take a look at my BRF as I wait for our coffee in the first pic). We made some friends while we all laughed at our obvious inability to function and we were so, soooo happy with our coffee shop choice. We chose Perc, because based on their reviews, they were a bit on the "coffee snob" or connoisseur side of things and we like that. They did not disappoint. We ordered a Chemex of their lighter roast (because, more caffeine) and for the first time in ages, drank an amazing cup of straight black coffee. Having lived in Milwaukee, surrounded by roasteries in every neighborhood, living in Atlanta's suburbs with nothing but Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks is really first-world-hard. We miss craft coffee. So we split a big Chemex, and promptly ordered up a couple lattes as well. And for the life of me, I forgot to take a photo of the incredible donuts they have brought in by a local baker called Asquad. And I mean incredible in the far reaches of the word. Like, out of this world, guys... so good. Sorry this paragraph was so wordy, but honestly, when it comes to coffee, we don't mess around - sorry not sorry.
- After we had been jolted awake (bless, you Perc, bless you), we hit the streets for some shop browsing and adventuring. Next door we found this incredible reclaimed wood warehouse that Joanna Gaines would just go crazy for, called Southern Pine Co.
- We also came upon Johnson Square, which lent itself to a few photo ops, of course.
- Let me also emphasize that the south is humid. Like, ghastly humid to the point of permanently sticky appendages, so take note of every long-ish haired person's living nightmare: HAIR STICKING TO NECK ... GAHHHHH!!! THE WORST
- We also took a stroll by the river, where there are plenty of touristy shops and art galleries. Though, I'm more interested in the history surrounding these riverside buildings, and watching the tug boats toot around. The Savannah Bee Company was worth a few taste tests (and air conditioning break).
- Back towards the middle of town, we visited my favorite store: The Paris Market. We had stopped there two years before, and their unique products and artisanal goods are so fun to look at. As you can see, the coffee had really kicked in and we were having a lot of fun there.
- For lunch, we went to Leopold's Ice Cream, which had been recommended to me, and was a clear local favorite. Somehow, we had beat the crowd and ordered both lunch and dessert with hardly a wait at all. Tom had chicken salad and I had a BLT (along with old fashioned fountain drinks), but really, the main event here is the ice cream. A sundae for Tom, and a scoop of Honey Almond Cream for me. Yeah, uhh, never pass up Leopold's if you go to Savannah.
- Down the block, we found a Blick Art Store and Tom was excited to find a piece of foamcore in his size. We thought we might do life-sized portraits of ourselves for the house. Eh? Eh?
- After a little rest at Forsyth Park while watching a rugby match, our trip came to a close. And also because my hair sticking to my neck was getting out of hand.
A huge thank you to my wonderful husband for treating me to such a great weekend and letting my restless spirit find a little peace. I think another trip to Savannah will make it onto our agenda again soon. There's just too much coffee we have yet to taste and more shops yet to explore!
Have you been to Savannah? What was your favorite part? Hoping to visit Savannah? Go!
How Travel Encourages Simple Living
Sometimes when you think of simple living or minimalism, you may picture stark white rooms with tons of hidden storage and spotless surfaces. This is a common myth on the topic. If you think I'm bluffing read my review of the book, The More of Less. There, you'll hopefully understand that simple living looks different for everyone. The whole idea is to remove all the excess that weighs you down and keeps you from truly living the life you're called to live. For some, that may look like a stark white, extremely minimal home, while others may own more - yet both are living an equally satisfying, purpose-filled life. Free of excess.
* I should also note that I sometimes use the phrase "simple living" and "minimalism" interchangeably. Some could argue differences, but I try to practice them equally. As in, I try to practice minimalism as part of my simple living efforts.
When you travel, regardless of why, you're expanding your horizons and your experience base. No, not the kind of experiences you put on a resume (though, maybe you're traveling for work - which really could add to your career experiences), but experiences of the heart and soul.
When you travel, you see and hear and taste and touch, the beauty of God's creation. Whether that be in the form of rising hills, mountains and forests, or in sweeping skies across oceans, fields, and plains. Even if your travels are nothing more than a flight, a jammed packed weekend, and another flight home, you're experiencing the richness of a full life. One of blessings (or maybe trials) of all measures.
When you travel, you are reminded that the things in this life that we hold dear are not things at all, but instead people, places, moments, and memories. They are the words that your friend offers that you never forget, because it was their words that helped lift the fog from your grieving heart. They are the loving kisses experienced overlooking seaside views or snowy nights. They are the reverberating sounds of laughter over delicious meals shared among family and friends. They are in the sweet intoxication of a memory revisited through the smells of a familiar place or the taste of an age-old recipe.
When you travel, you 'look up' from the technology that ensnares us and instead grasp the wonder of a tangible world. Of bright sun and cooling winds. Of warm hugs and breathtaking sunsets. You catch the glances and smirks and amazement on the faces of those dearest to your heart.
When you travel, your troubles and worries fade. Because sometimes it only takes the simple act of a deep breath of fresh air, coupled with God's reminders of His plans for you, to clear your heavy heart or mind.
When you travel, and you can travel every day if you'd like, you're reminded of what defines "enough." That you're enough, and that your life is filled to the brim. All you have to do is notice. And if you ask me, noticing is a pretty simple act.
Restless Hearts
It's the traveling time of year.
Vacations, reunions, weddings, holidays... summer is that magical time of year when it happens.
We have a little bit of that in our own plans. A wedding, a concert, a possible roadtrip, visitors, etc. But as a restless soul, I long for the runaway trips. The jump-on-a-plane and see where it takes you, the path less traveled, detour kind of trips. The ones that aren't planned, aren't expected, and aren't on the watch of anyone else.
restless
[rest-lis]
unquiet or uneasy, as a person, the mind, or the heart.
It's always been this way.
Thankfully, I married someone who knows what to do.
"Get in the car," he'll say. "Just tell me when to turn and which way."
I climb in, body nearly shaking with the urge to run. I used to do it alone, but when he first heard me utter the words, "I'm a restless soul. Sometimes I need to run and not know where I'm running," he didn't question why or let me disappear. He has always promised to go with. Even if it means going in silence, it still means he's going. So from the moment we said "I will" I've never gone without him.
There's not always a trigger, but it's always sudden. It has meant skipping class or leaving late at night, driving on and on, climbing through woods, scaling steep cliff-sides, with no phone, no music, no noise but the wind. Never to a mall or a restaurant or even a trail. Mostly near water, twinkling lights, rainy weather, or forests.
It's when my mind calls my body to go anywhere but here. Maybe it's a flight or fight response to something subconscious. Whatever it is, it feels urgent.
Does this happen to you?
Maybe it's from the comparison game you find yourself in based on social media. Maybe it's because you're suddenly homesick for an honest conversation with that certain friend. Maybe your work is feeling tedious, and your colleagues are wearing you thin. Maybe it's because your travels suddenly feel more like obligations than adventure. Maybe it's simply the idea of losing yourself in a time and place outside your routine that has you grappling for uncertainty and spontaneity.
Whatever it is, give it a listen sometimes. The timing won't always be right. The finances will never look like you want them to. But give yourself that room to run. Your greatest adventures often come from a whim. Check the excuses at the door and go. Go anywhere but here.
Don't do it out of discontent or selfishness. Not even to "escape reality." Do it because you need to breathe deep. You need time alone to spend with God and take in the beauty of His creation and rebalance whatever is teetering the wrong way. You'll come back a few hours or days later feeling refreshed and motivated with a greater sense of stability and enthusiasm. It does the soul good and I'm here to tell you this:
Follow your restless heart.
Nashville, TN
Usually, when I do posts on my travels, I itemize each day's itinerary. Check out our trips to San Antonio and The Blue Ridge Mountains and you'll see what I mean.
That being said, Nashville was its own kind of crazy and I decided it was more worthy of a story.
As many of our trips stem from, this trip was business for Thomas. He had a conference to attend, and being the tag along that I am, forced my way onto the itinerary.
*That is a complete an utter lie. Tom loves when I come along and it's almost always his idea*
Since we're geniuses, we stayed in the world's most comfortable, adorable Airbnb. Here's the listing. It looked exactly like the photos, but even better. If I'm being honest, Nashville is actually rather saturated in amazing Airbnb's. I'm not sure why anyone would bother with a hotel in Music City... but I digress.
It was located in East Nashville, and was above their detached garage. We had a parking spot, private entry, and full amenities in the most perfect studio. Both of us remarked that it weirdly smelled and felt like home which we loved, and would have made a super cute first apartment. Our host was amazing, and I had a nice chat with her one morning while she was in the back yard with their two friendly dogs. She pointed me in the direction of good food, coffee, and bars (many of which in walking distance). She was a total delight and so sweet! We would highly recommend staying there.
Nashville is my definition of a perfect, small-town city. You can walk to so many corner coffee shops (none of which are Starbucks) and drive from one end of town to the other in about twenty minutes. I desperately miss living in a city with soul, I'll admit. Being in Nashville felt very natural to me... who knows, maybe we'll find ourselves there next!
We had some awesome meals which included Burger Up, Mas Tacos Por Favor, Taco Mamacita, and Lockeland Table. My favorite meal was honestly from Mas Tacos Por Favor - super yummy street tacos. Done and done.
For coffee, I walked to Portland Brew and Barista Parlor and drove to Eighth and Roast. Each of these was awesome in totally different ways. Portland Brew was great for working and spending the day in, as it had tons of space. Plus, I met up with a college buddy there who writes as well - Tanner from Written to Speak - he's really, really awesome guys. He writes about some seriously tough stuff and the encouragement I walked away with was amazing. Barista Parlor was crazy hipster and they were not shy about their snobbiness in regards to coffee... and I love me some coffee snobs, so it was a win-win. And Eighth and Roast... well, let's just say I happened to have my morning joe with the lead singer of one of my favorite bands like it was NBD while I was secretly freaking out on the inside. No, I did not take creeper photos, but I was certainly tempted to. We had a nice, casual chat for about a half hour or so and he was very kind. Here's a not so subtle hint as to who it was:
While there, we had a little mini reunion of sorts with a some friends from college. Tanner, as I mentioned before, was my coffee buddy for two of the mornings and I grabbed dinner with my friend Anna and then drinks afterwards with all four of us at a bar called Old Glory which was super cool, weird, and dark. For a Tuesday night, it was pretty busy and our poor bartender was taking breaks at our table - haha - like literally sitting in our booth talking with us to catch a breath. We had such a blast catching up, talking about serious things, and joking about anything and everything. However, even the slightest of hangovers doesn't bode well with our no-longer-21-year-old selves and we were draggingggg the next day.
Since Tom was in conferences everyday until dinner, I spent my days walking to coffee shops to work, hanging out in the Airbnb to work, and doing a little exploring of the city. My exploring kind of halted when I got into a car accident - which was my fault and thankfully no one was hurt - but it shook me up enough to want to leave my keys tucked out of sight for the rest of the trip. This idea was short lived, because Tom forgot his conference lanyard the very next morning and I had to rush it down to him, but it was worth a shot. My car was amazingly left (mostly) unscathed, but the other guy lost his front bumper. He was gracious, but that's probably because I apologized profusely while hyperventilating and took full blame. We all admitted it was an honest accident, though, and it was very civil and calm. Later that night, since I was just on a roll with life, my phone slipped out of my purse pocket a mere FOUR inches to the ground and cracked the screen. LOVELY.
Between meeting singers, getting in car wrecks, and breaking phones... our trip to Nashville was one to remember. The friends, culture, sights, food, coffee (bless you, Nashville, for having wonderful coffee), and accommodations truly left us itching to come back/we're kind of in love with the city. Visit Nashville guys. Click the photos to enlarge. Enjoy!
