Opryland Hotel visit

Here we are at the lavish Opryland Hotel in Nashville while Dan attends the state school board meeting. Christmas decorations are everywhere from poinsettia trees to glimmering lights that transform the gardens to a fairyland. I have walked myself to death visiting the shops and the mall across the street.

None of my shoes are comfortable anymore. Maybe I'll start using roller skates instead. We ate at our favorite restaurant, The Water's Edge, last night. I have never seen such a spread of appetizers, salads, breads, soups, vegetables, pasta, meats, and desserts. I ate so much hummus and veggies and pasta I had no room for dessert, but what a delicious meal!

Another benefit of book signings, meeting people

I have spent the past few weeks going to numeous book signings and meeting lots of new people. At the local fitness center where I exercise, I've discovered many old friends I haven't seen in years. Everyone seems to have a different workout schedule so I've been selling my books at different times, early morning, lunch, or late afternoon. That way I see just about everyone who goes through the doors of the club.

Saturday I did a signing at Jefferson Drug Store and renewed acquaintances with so many people. This place is a quaint little restaurant with gift shop that reminds you of Mayberry. The lady who rings up the sales, Peggy, is just as friendly as Aunt Mae. I had a hearty breakfast at 8 am with my friends, Pat and Joanne, then went into the gift shop to sell my books. My husband Dan and daughter Candie came down about 12 pm and we ate another hearty meal. While in the restaurant, we ran into an old friend we hadn't seen since she was about 4 years old, Victoria. She had turned into a beautiful young lady with long dark hair and striking brown eyes. She is now a high school graduate. Seeing her was the highlight of my day.