Nashville – The Ryman Auditorium

Looking back at our trip to Nashville, I was fully unprepared when I entered the city. I knew that I wanted to enjoy my sweet friends and just hear their voices, but I knew nothing (or very little) about the city we were heading to.

Jen is my oldest friend. We are best friends. The summer after 7th grade, our mothers picked us out for one another and it was a great fit. She was new to Texas and I was chatty. She is a stunning red-head with a smart and fiery personality. I am a dark blonde or light brunette encourager who has a tendency to interrupt when I get excited.

She had looked up a few places that we should go and the Ryman Auditorium was on her list. I think it is safe to say that we all fell in love with the Ryman the minute we walked in the door. It is lovingly called the Mother Church of County Music. It was the home of the Grand Ole Opry for many years.

It was absolutely stunning. The shape, the wood, the history – every single part of it was something that you could fall in love with.

Jen immediately talked me into recording.

As I walked into the studio, I was absolutely taken with the grandeur of it all. The stage across from me… knowing that Minnie Pearl and Patsy Cline and Trisha Yearwood and Amy Grant have sung and performed on that stage was humbling.

I decided to sing Amazing Grace. I was certain I could do it justice.

You guys… it was terrible. After the first two verses, it modulated higher and I’m pretty sure a train wreck full of cats would have been more pleasant. No, I’m not being modest. I asked Brian to listen to it and his sweet face said it all.

But you know what? I’m so glad I did it.

Sometimes, it is the experience of it all that matters. Sometimes, it is just looking out through the glass and seeing your three dearest friends smile hugely at you with all their heart that makes the memory.

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