First, let me just say a big heartfelt thank you for all the wonderful comments and emails you all sent to me. I’ve had tears in my eyes all day from reading them and believe me, I’ve read every single one. It was so much appreciated and my heart is full from all the love I feel from ya’ll. You are the BEST group of women out there. Thank you SO much. I will definitely be keeping you up to date on what the next steps for me will be. I know I will be having a moving sale in the next few weeks, so if you are nearby and want to come, stay tuned for details on that.
Last week in Nashville was just what I needed right now.
Time with the girls.
A little get away and girlfriend time with lots of laughter to get my mind off my stuff.
Had the best time hanging out with other bloggy friends, catching up at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville. The Blissdom conference was going strong and very well attended, so we got to hang out with many of those girls as well. My roomies and I chose not to attend the conference, so we had extra time for relaxing and time for a day of thrifting.
The Opryland hotel is back, better than ever after the flood of last spring. It’s a beautiful and truly inspiring place to spend a few days. Sort of like a mini-Disney world. We ate here at the American Cafe for lunch one day.Just walking around looking at the gorgeous scenery is fun to do. If you have to spend a few days anywhere, the Gaylord Opryland is prime real estate.Fountains and flora everywhere. They take especially good care of the grounds.Those glassed in ceilings are just awe-inspiring. Beautiful outdoor seating.We all hung out on these beautiful lounge chairs one evening, feeling like we were sitting outside under the stars.These balconies remind me of the French Quarter.(Decor Chick, Honey We’re Home, Sand and Sisal, me, Centsational Girl, 320 Sycamore & her sister, and 2 bloggers I don’t know).
Here’s a photo borrowed from Honey We’re Home, with a few bloggers I got to spend some time with. The home bloggers were in full force this year, much bigger than the previous year and it’s a terrific bunch of girls.
Me and my roomies (Chris with Just A Girl, Me, Sarah Thrifty Decor Chick, & Beth with Stories of A2Z). I told them I feel like the den mother, since I’m almost 20 years older than these girls. We had so much fun, not a better group of friends around. Thanks girls for letting this old gal hang with you stylin’ young things. 🙂If you’ve never been to the Opryland, you must go sometime. Truly a treat for the eyes.These gazebos are just amazing. And see the flowers? so prettyThey must have a large number on the landscape crew.Gorge!So much to see and take in.Like these orchids.
Lots of neat buildings and restaurants to choose from.A glassed in little city.Fountain on the wall.One day, Beth, Chris and I walked around and had lunch over looking this beautiful spot.Pizza and a salad and we sat here and talked and talked and talked.Beth and Chris. I loved getting to know them better and when you room with someone, you do get to know them.Waterfall nearby.Isn’t this amazing?It’s truly such a beautiful spot.So glad that I got to go this year.A beautiful group of bloggers! I’m not going to try to name all of them, but I loved getting to know these girls and spending time with them.
Sonya says
Rhoda,
I will be praying for you and that God will give you the peace and direction that you need to take…….
You are a special person and a child of the King. He will work it all out.
Just know you have a whole bunch of people in blog land who love you and only want the best for you!
Sincerely,
Sonya
Kay says
Your blog is enchanting and I enjoy it so much. You have been on my heart and mind since I first read about your decision and I feel certain good things are in store for you. I believe the best is yet to come for you Rhonda. I am sending you lots of positive energy. Take care.
Kat says
Looks like a wonderful time in a beautiful location. It’s even more magical there at Christmas. Great photos!
You’ve been in my thoughts and prayers. Call if you need to talk. Come here if you to get away.
Hugs,
Kat
Melinda says
What a wonderful trip you had Rhoda! The Opryland Hotel is GORGEOUS!!! I would love to go sometime to Blissdom. It is so much fun to meet fellow bloggers. Glad you had a great trip. Thanks for sharing all your beautiful photos. Love & blessings from NC!
Melinda says
It’s me again! I’m so sorry, but I had not read your past post about what you are going through right now, so I was out of the loop. Rhoda, you are a dear blog friend and I will certainly keep you in my prayers during this time! Although we have never met in person, I still cherish our “blog friendship”. You have encouraged so many people through your blog and you will continue to do so, but right now, let others encourage and pray for you!!! I’m so glad you could go on your trip to Blissdom and be with your fellow blog friends. Know that we are all here for you, Rhoda, and will lift you up at this time. So glad that you can be with your folks during this difficult time in your life. God is right there with you too, and I’m sure you can feel His arms around you, offering the comfort that only He can!!! You will get through this. Love & blessings from NC!
Adrienne says
What fun! Wish I could have joined you and had some girl time away. I’ve read many of the blogs from the gals who were there and it sounds like a great adventure!
~Adrienne~