My Happy Place

Everyone needs a “happy place”; a place to heal, a place you can visit for spiritual and physical refreshment. This place for me is located in southern Indiana. Nashville is a small town with a big appeal. The views are beautiful, the people friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming.

Where it Started

 

 

 

 

 

 

My first trip to Nashville was in 2016, just before my youngest daughter’s wedding, and shortly after my Dad’s death. My cousin and close friend, Suzie, had rented a large cabin and invited a few of her family members. I was tired, anxious, depressed, and in need of a vacation. Life as I knew it was changing forever, and I wasn’t ready. My daughter’s wedding was looming ahead of us, and she would be moving 2 1/2 hours away. Because of my Dads illness, I  wasn’t able to participate in most of the planning. She didn’t even get to have a bridal shower. Without my knowledge these precious women planned a “Redneck Bridal Shower” for my daughter, Brenna. This heartfelt gesture was just what we both needed so badly. From the straw hats and wax lips, to the Solo Cup champagne glasses everything was perfect. That week a beautiful tradition began, and forever enriched our lives.

Shopping is Delightful

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What vacation spot would be complete without a little shopping? Nashville shops boast crafts, a steam punk shop, ice cream parlors, boutiques, as well as my favorite essential oil infused lotions, book store, and Life is Good t-shirt store. These are just a few of the delightful stores in this artisan town. It is truly a shopping addicts paradise! What could possibly be more cathartic?

Throughout The Years

 

 

Every June since that trip, Suzie treats us to a week in Nashville.  Memories are made, and laughter abounds. Kayaking trips, evening games around the table, fire-pit “trash dogs”, are  healing, bonding experiences. We gather together for a week, and  reminisce of times past, while planning future adventures. The healing atmosphere seems to wash us clean, and replace our normal daily hardships with smiles and laughter. 

Proverbs 27:9 the message version states,”Just as lotions and fragrance give sensual delight, a sweet friendship refreshes the soul.” A trip with my family and friends to Nashville, Indiana always accomplishes that very thing.