Last weekend, I finally met one of my favorite coworkers-turned-friends in person! Alvin and I have been working together for almost a year now, and we became close after one of our first projects together. Alvin and his wife Alex were the best hosts and friends I could’ve shared my first (but certainly not last!) Nashville experience with.

On Thursday after work, they picked me up and we headed to a beautiful winery with an awesome view. It was surreal finally being in someone’s presence who you’ve felt like you’ve known for so long! Alex and Alvin were a riot, and talking with them flew by. It was also great to enjoy some wine, snacks and sunshine on my shoulders. We grabbed dinner and another drink at a local restaurant before heading back to the city.

Our hearts were set on shopping, sushi and ice cream before hitting Friday’s improv show. It’d been since leaving Chicago that I’d had Jeni’s ice cream, so that was a must! The comedy show was hysterical and the three of us were laughing the entire time (not that that wasn’t already happening, haha!). We ended the night with a breathtaking 360° view of the city at a sky bar, accompanied by great drinks and live music, and a quick Assembly Hall visit.

Saturday was a random assortment of fun, which started with an amazing brunch and ended with seeing drunken shenanigans on Broadway Street. Alex and I spent the morning together at Snooze, the coolest, most retro brunch spot I’ve been to (which resulted in some buzzed shopping!). Speaking of shopping, the majority of our afternoon was spent in Alabama at Buc-ee’s… the pups joined us and everything!

It was a wild, wild place where anything and everything is possible. Now I can say I’ve been. 😂

Saturday flew by too fast, but our last evening together was well-spent. We saw Lecrae in concert with one of their friends, Vicky, who was an absolute sweetheart. We also saw some live music at Acme, a popular bar with a great view on Broadway Street. Kendall Street Company was great and had the best outfits on… as well as song lyrics.

Although my time in Nashville (and Alabama!) went by too fast, I’m looking forward to more adventures with Alvin and Alex! ☺️