Deb Raney recently made a visit to Nashville, and we spent a quick—but oh so fun!—afternoon hitting some Nashville “musts!” Let’s see if any of these would be on your “must” list!
Deb and I have been friends since 2001 when we met at the first ever ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) conference in Kansas City. Been buddies—and writing critique partners—ever since!
I took Deb to Three French Hens, one of my favorite antique shops in Nolensville. While there, we ran across this little plague which made us think of Patti Jo Moore.
So, Patti Jo, these next two pics are for you, babe!
Deb is a cat lover.
I . . . am not.
I don’t wish cats harm. Not really. Well, not mostly. : )
Next, what trip to Nashville would be complete without a trip to…
The Donut Den, a Nashville Tradition
The same man has been baking these melt-in-your-mouth pastries at the Nashville Donut Den for 44 years! And Claire, the sweet woman who helped us today, has worked there for 15 years (and says it’s a blast).
No matter your favorite donut, you’ll find one to love—glazed, chocolate, blueberry cake, Devil’s food cake, and maple bacon (which we tried! Oh my, who knew bacon and donuts should be married?). And their apple fritters, cherry fritters, chocolate eclairs, cinnamon rolls, and turnovers looked to die for!
They have a Texas Donut (I know, we’re in Nashville, but never mind that) that is GINORMOUS! [Jon, whoever you are, thanks for letting us borrow your B-day Donut!]
And to give the Texas Donut scope…
George Washington, eat your heart out!
And the cutest little “reserved parking” sign waits to welcome you!
Lastly, I found the cutest little chair while antiquing. But since I’m not a grandmother yet . . .
I’m not sure Jack liked it, but he did cooperate. Bless.
So tell me, would any of these outings be on your “must” list? What’s some fun girl time you’ve spent with a friend lately, and what mischief did y’all get up to? And please tell me it included food!
Blessings on your Tuesday,
Tammy
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Tamera Alexander
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The maple bacon donut has my name all over it. Maple is my favorite anyway. And that antique shop sounds like a must see!
I’d had the maple donut, Ane, but never bacon on it. Be still my heart!
Definitely the donut shop! Do they have coffee? That’s another must! I would love the giant donut for my birthday but alas, I live in Alabama.
I’m not very fond of cats either Tamara. My daughter has a huge male cat that loves to swipe at my grandkids. I want to wring his neck! My daughter doesn’t like him either. He belongs to my son-in-law.
Yes to the coffee, and Deb said it was “great!” LOL at the “wring his neck” comment, Gail. And I giggled at your daughter not liking him either. I’m actually allergic to cats so I’m sure that enters into my less than enthusiastic acceptance of them. : }
So fun to see you two together enjoying Nashville! : )
Thanks, Carrie. Dear friends are a true treasure!
Holy Cow. That’s not a donut, it’s a life preserver. LOL Looks like you both had a great time. It’s awesome you’ve been friends so long!!!
LOL, June! I might just fall overboard on purpose if that’ll be thrown my way! Thanks for sharing!
Unfortunately, I’ve been out of commission for over 2 years. I took care of my mother, 85, for knee replacement; then assisted with care of my father, 86, with Alzheimer’s. He passes away January 13,2015.
Then I had rotator cuff surgery in April. My mother went into the hospital in November on a Monday. I had surgery on Thursday, she had surgery on Friday. We were both in the hospital and/or a rehab facility for two weeks. Now I’m recovery from ankle fusion surgery since November. I’ve only been out to the doctor for cast changes. I’m non- weight bearing & use a knee walker to get around. I’ve been reading & crocheting. I really need to have a fun day trip!
This is not a pity party, but a statement of God’s blessing of my family. God had everything planned perfectly & sent many people to bless us along the way.
Betty, what a praise to Jesus for his tender and constant care, even in the midst of such difficult times for you and your family. Sometimes it’s hard to see his goodness during those times, but he IS there, as you’ve attested so beautifully. I’m praying for you even now and asking God to heal you all completely and to meet every needs of yours — plus to send some special sunshine and heartwarming experiences your way. Thanks so much for sharing, and much love.
Hi Tamera, when we come to Nashville, it’s usually to visit our son Joe, who graduated from Belmont and has never left! So we visit some of his favorites, such as coffee shops, PM restaurant, Burger Up, and try to visit his church, The Village Chapel, which we love, and also travel up to the church where he does audio work most Sundays when he’s in town, Long Hollow, in Gallatin. Boy, was that a run-on sentence, or what?😳 Not as fun as a girl trip, but I’m surrounded by a husband and five sons. Hoping for a daughter-in-law soon!! We did get to visit Belmont Mansion a couple years back; Joe got in free since he’d never taken his free student tour! Bought your book there in the gift shop, the second Belmont one.
I’m going to suggest that Donut shop next time we visit.😊
Karen, DO visit the Donut Den. You’ll love it! I loved hearing all about your visits here, and your son. PM is a favorite of ours too, such good food. Cool on you visiting Belmont Mansion. It’s a beautiful place with such rich history. Thanks so much for reading and taking these journeys with me. Bless you!
While we were there over the weekend, Rachel Hauck made sure I got to Broadway, a hop and skip from the hotel. Tons of activity in downtown. Fun to experience it!
Oh yes, Broadway is a happenin’ place, Cara. Glad you got down there. And looking forward to seeing you in August for the ACFW Conference!
Your title “The Sweetest Things” must be referring to Deb, right?! LOL
I can’t WAIT to come to Nashville in August. I would want to go to one of those shops with the snarky little plaques that you and Kelsey find. 🙂
I wonder if that donut is as big as the Texas donut at our famous Round Rock Donuts. Too fun!
Um….right! Yes, of course, the “sweetest things” is referring to Deb. Well… Mainly the donut, but Deb too. : )
Looking forward to seeing you at ACFW in August!
I agree that any visit to Nashvile has to include The Donut Den. Thier blueberry cake donut is heavenly
Okay, Sheila! Thanks for giving me an excuse to go back. I’m on it! 😉