Traveling has always been a dream of mine. Ever since I was a little girl I've desired to see new places, experience different cultures, and explore unfamiliar surroundings. And three years ago when our Pastors told us they were moving to Tennessee to plant a church, I knew we had to go visit their new home.
Our trip to Clarksville was for fun, but the main purpose was to be there for the church launch. We were honored to be there and help with the last minute details of the remodel and get to spend all day with our church family.
But let me go back to the night we came in, because the moment we landed in Nashville and loaded up our rental, we felt a sense of excitement and immense peace. We quickly wanted to explore so, like any Nashville tourist, we drove through honky tonk alley and ate at a local bbq place. After that, we quickly set off to Clarksville to hug our people. The lush greenery (even along side the freeway) was unlike anything we had seen before. But what took my breath away was how ENORMOUS the sky was. Endless blue and white. I'd never seen anything like it. We even got to drive through a thunderstorm the night of our arrival and it was a powerful thing to witness. (Yes from big blue skies to a thunderstorm in minutes- that's the Tennessee way)
Speaking of weather, I giggle at the thought of us getting hit with the humidity as California natives. Personally, I loved it and felt like it was a constant warm hug, but my husband did not agree! But beyond the weather changes, the number one thing that stands out in my mind when I think of Tennessee is how incredibly kind the locals were. They were genuinely welcoming and gracious- everywhere we went. And I mean everywhere. I have never talked to so many strangers! But it was amazing to hear their stories and tell them why we were there.
And like anyone on vacation, we thoroughly indulged in all the Tennessee food. Freddies is a local favorite and their concrete milkshakes are worth a plane ticket. But my Southern favorite was Hatties- the chicken was beyond amazing.
As a family we went to the Nashville zoo (the most gorgeous zoo I've ever visited), we drove around different neighborhoods and loved all the houses and endless green properties, we hiked Dunbar Cave, and we went to a few parks. The tranquility in Clarksville is indescribable. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. Throughout our stay, we felt a profound sense of peace and joy. It was as if the pace of life in Clarksville allowed us to slow down and savor each moment. The genuine hospitality of the locals, the natural beauty of the surroundings, and the purpose of our trip being the church launch- all contributed to this overwhelming feeling of contentment.
To say the least, Clarksville captured our hearts. And if you're wondering if we're moving- we are not! IYKYK But it's definitely a place we'd love to return to over and over again. Not only did we love the state and all it's beauty, Clarksville holds some of our favorite people. People we love and miss deeply. We truly can't wait to visit again and immerse ourselves even more.
Until next time, Tennessee <3
