Saturday, Day 34 and Sunday, a day of worship & rest

Saturday morning began with breakfast at the Econolodge in Dickson Tennessee, packing up and driving back to the spot on Hwy 70 where we left off on Friday.  The skies were overcast, it was foggy and muggy with a temperature of 74 degrees when Russ got on the bike just after 6:30 am.  Thankfully, the traffic was light this early on Saturday morning since most of the road today was 2 lane with little or no shoulder.  Russ rode 37 miles into Nashville before stopping, downtown loomed ahead!

When we stopped Russ briefly got a drink, then we separated.  At 9:15 Russ headed through downtown on a bike route and trail, Gene and I drove to the other side of town in the parking lot of the Grand Ole Opry to wait for him.  This time, Russ had a cell phone with him, this was a PLANNED separation.  We were glad to see Russ roll up at 10:15.  After 50 miles for the day, we packed up and bike riding was over for the rest of the weekend!
After picking up our tickets for the Grand Ole Opry for Saturday night, we took some pictures then spent some time checking out Opry Mills mall.

We ate lunch at the Opryland Backstage Grill, then checked into our Comfort Inn.  The pool was cool and refreshing so that was where we spent some of the afternoon. In the evening we headed back down to the Grand Ole Opry for the show!  The show was great!

 All the performers were great!  The most recognizable name we saw was Charley Pride.

After the show we went on a backstage tour.  Even got to stand on "the circle" on stage!

 Since it was almost midnight when we got back to the motel I decided not to blog!

Sunday morning we slept in, had a leisurely breakfast and got ready for church.  We worshipped at a  church nearby, the pastor spoke about commitment and transformation.  The church was going through some changes, you could feel it in the atmosphere.  We made our way back to the motel where we spent a quiet afternoon. 

In the evening we embarked on the General Jackson Showboat dinner cruise.  The heat of the afternoon had been intense, but the temperature had cooled and there was a gentle breeze.  Russ & I had been on the cruise the last time we were in Nashville and really enjoyed it, the dinner was delicious once again and the show was excellent.  We met some interesting and friendly people and had a great evening.

Nashville is a beautiful and interesting city.  The warmth and friendliness of the people is evident all around.  It's amazing how much talent is in this music city!  At some restaurants it is common that the wait staff not only serve food, they entertain by playing instruments and singing.  The music is diverse and enjoyable, the talent is incredible.  When God gave us music, He gave us a fabulous gift.  The weekend has been refreshing and enjoyable, we will have songs in our minds & hearts as we head back on the road tomorrow. 

On Saturday, Russ surpassed the 4000 mile mark including last year's journey.  That's hard to imagine, isn't it? 4000 miles on a bicycle!  Tomorrow we will keep on moving through Tennessee.  God is SO good giving us guidance & protection, giving Russ strength & endurance, and allowing us to experience His creation & His people.  We're looking forward to the blessings that are ahead of us.  We appreciate your prayers, we couldn't do it without you!

Until tomorrow,

Russ & Carol