It was a windy wrestling match from Memphis with the coach. We rolled into Athens of the South relatively early on Wednesday afternoon just ahead of an epic thundershower.

The city sports the only full scale replica of the Greek Parthenon in the world or so they say…The plan was to take care of domestic requirements; laundry, provisions and a local IPA.

With one day to experience the city, first stop Grand Ole Opry. Its a big commercial complex with a huge mall adjoining the property. Not my style, but Koko wanted to leave pee-mail.

Driving into the city we passed a fast food icon, never had tried so…
…Koko went to White Castle

Man, was that a disappointment. After hearing for years about how singularly mouthwatering these sliders were…I ate mine…Barb had only one small bite.  Both of us were puzzled. The hype didn’t live up to the experience.

We drove around the university and through the neighborhoods. Really liked what we saw. Nashville has a wonderful vibe. Reminded me of PDX in the summer only better.

Music is what we came to hear, an old friend who is now a local pointed us to Broadway. Off we went. Downtown

We hit several bars, Tootsie’s, The Stage and Rippy’s stood out.  This is the most vibrant live music scene I’ve experienced. Country to be sure, but in keeping with the whole Marc Cohen theme…

“Are you a Country fan, child?
And I said, “Ma’am, I am tonight!”

The final bar had the antidote that Portland could use…I leave you with the best IPA yet!

Tomorrow, the trek north begins in earnest. It will be a cold long slog east then north. Hope the wheels stay on the wagon!