Nashville and back

Labor Day weekend's was what, a couple of weekends ago? And it seems like ages since I saw Jennifer and was chipped by a wayward beer bottle!

A three plus (almost four day) trip to Nashville is good time to take in the sights, Tastes and of course, the SOUNDS of the Music Capital. Though it is a tough choice between the Tastes and Sounds!

The Honky Tonks of downtown Nashville (which does seem cute and compact compared to Chicago and NY) are a must see. I had visions of a packed row of cars with mad drivers inside, when I first heard the misleading term. However, in a classic case of too much of a good thing... these bars with FREE live (country) music do end up sounding quite like that, especially if you are in a car caught in the traffic jam outside. But step inside, and things change...

Some of the bars (we soberly skipped through three), did have very good performers. The music was a mix; I recognized country and pop and Jennifer pointed out the swing. But then, the idea I think in true country fashion, is to let people have fun, while listening to some great music. Probably not the best place for music purists of any kind! And fun was definitely on the agenda for most of the people--from frat boy and town girl groups to bachelorette parties. Little did I know that the last was going to be my chipped nemesis. But I guess that's inevitable with people headed into marriage, too much beer and unsuspecting prey in shorts (read yours truly;)

And then there's Nashville food, or more appropriately Southern (US) food! Bad for you, your heart and everything else that doctors keep telling you to be careful about. But, oh so good for your taste buds. From corn bread to fried ladysfinger (okra in Americaspeak and like bhendi in besan) and fried eggs, a winner all the way. Well, since porridge and I do not see eye to eye, I wouldn't give top marks to grits, but that's the only not-so-rosy bit. If only there was a way to keep eating all that and keep the added kilos at bay, I would eat it all the time at the Loveless Cafe :)

And then, there's Vanderbilt University. Coming up tomorrow.