Nov. 13, 14, 15 & 16

Tues. Nov. 13 - We decided to go back to the Opry Mills Mall near our campground to do some Christmas Shopping. We purchased four items for the Yankee Trade done among the six Lefort families at the Thanksgiving Extravanganza in Strykersville, NY. Note: the prices for men's clothing at this mall are ridiculous. Tuesday evening was dinner at the coach and "Dancing With The Stars".

Weds. Nov. 14 - We trekked to "The Hermitage" to tour the home and plantation of Andrew Jackson, our 7th President.

First home Andrew and Rachel lived in at the Hermitage


It was quite an experience and a great history lesson. Andrew Jackson or "Old Hickory" as he was known was a war hero of the War of 1812, decisively kicking the butts of a British Army three times the size of the Tennessee Volunteers who Jackson led into battle. He quickly vaulted into national prominence and was elected president in 1828. "The Hermitage" has been restored and the mansion tour is done by southern belles in period costume.

Last home Andrew lived in at the Hermitage, after his wife Rachel died.



Betty and her granddaughters. She was a slave and cook for the Jacksons


The outside tour is done with a headset and CD player so you can tour at your own pace. Very informative and worthwhile for any history buff.


Tombs where Rachel and Andrew Jackson are buried.



Graves of the Jackson family members


That evening we dined at the Santa Fe Cattlemen's Club on Music Valley Drive. (A Texas restaurant). Jane had steak and Bill had a texas burrito of which he could only eat half. Beers are served in Mason canning jars, the large quart size. Everything in Texas is bigger!!!!!!


Thurs. Nov. 15 - Bill saw an add for a Dillard's "Going Out Of Business Sale" at the Bellevue Center which is about 20 miles southwest of Nashville. Off we went, and worth the trip as Bill found real bargains throughout the store. That evening we dined at the Blackstone Brewery and Grill, a very upscale restaurant near Vanderbilt University. They brew six kinds of beer right on site and were right up there with Saranac quality. (Jane sampled all six brews). After we went to Sam's Sports Bar at Vanderbilt and watched the Sabres game. They lost to Ottawa 3-2, no miracle finish this time as Danny Briere has departed for Philly.


Fri. Nov. 16 - We suffered our first casualty of the trip - Abbey was making her usual dash from ceramic floor to front passenger seat and leaping onto the dash board.

Innocent Abigail


Bill came up the front steps and Abbey, in mid-leap, collided with Bill's left eye area. How a nine pound dog won this collision is still a mystery, but Bill has a shiner to prove he lost.




That evening we returned to the Gaylord Opryland complex and viewed the beautiful Christmas lights and decorations.
















The weather here has been good for the most part, with warm, sunny days and chilly nights. We like to read and relax outside in the sunshine. The leaves are just now starting to fall and the colors are beautiful.


Signing off for now,

Bill and Jane