Author Archives: Serene

Andrew Jackson was born fatherless and orphaned at 14.  He made his own way in the new America by taking chances and bending the rules.  He was courageous, independent and determined.  Do I sound like a fan?    All I … Continue reading →

Our first journey outside Nashville was to the Belle Meade Plantation. It sits on the Natchez Trace, a former Native American path connecting settlements.   John Harding bought the site in 1807 and began developing a farm he called Belle … Continue reading →

Elvis Presley recorded five records at Sun Records in Memphis before RCA bought his contract for $35,000. In January, 1956,  Elvis recorded his first song, Heartbreak Hotel, in Nashville. Work on Studio B began that same year and began producing records … Continue reading →

We had two Grand Ole Opry experiences: a back stage tour in the afternoon and a show in the evening. They were both great! We arrived at the sixth location of the Grand Ole Opry. It has been in this … Continue reading →

We frequently try to begin our exploration of a new place with a food tour.  The guide usually provides some local history along with the tastes of the area.  Occasionally we’ll even go back to one of the places we … Continue reading →

We had “use it or lose it” credit on American Airlines with very tight time constraints. We decided to go to Nashville!  You know, spend money to save money. Our afternoon direct flight was uneventful and we were in our … Continue reading →

We loved this trip!  We especially loved it combined with our Holland American transatlantic cruise.  It was a great five weeks in April and May 2022. This last (yes last!) post about our trip will mention some overall impressions, some … Continue reading →

Our first stop on the last day of our Tour of Italy was at the Florence American Cemetery Memorial.  This is one of two American Cemeteries in Italy. The other is near Rome.  Rome was liberated on June 5, 1944.  … Continue reading →

There were two significant events on our minds as we arrived in Florence. Seeing Michelangelo’s David and taking the Covid test required for travel back into the US. In May 2022, testing positive meant quarantine in Florence.  Our hotel room … Continue reading →

Pisa was an important port on the Mediterranean in the 12th century. Construction on a bell tower began in 1173.   Unfortunately, the land was marshy and the tower started leaning after the third floor was added.  We were told … Continue reading →