There’s something to be said about traveling by yourself. Navigating the airport, locating the rental car, and searching for a small cabin in the middle of nowhere is rather terrifying, but rewarding at the same time. Traveling solo is liberating, and you learn a lot about yourself very quickly. GPS is a seriously amazing tool, and I was grateful that I didn’t get lost at all.
I started in Woodbury, Tennessee which I randomly chose because of the cute cottage VRBO on Bullpen Road. The owners displayed an inviting Christian theme throughout. It was unseasonably cold, but still warmer than Michigan. I’m bummed I didn’t get to venture outside and walk like I originally planned. Since I have friends in College Grove and family in Murfreesboro, I thought I’d go an hour east where I had never been.
There’s not much to see in Woodbury, but that’s why I liked it. There aren’t strip malls on every corner, which is a good thing. I was grateful for the opportunity to explore new areas and people. The mental break from my busy schedule was long overdue. Down time is considered self-care, and we all need it. Woodbury reminded me of where I grew up in Stahlstown, Pennsylvania. Lots of narrow, windy roads and scenic views! All the people I encountered were very friendly.
I had time before I checked in to the cabin, so I ate lunch at Golden Greek Restaurant and had a chicken shawarma wrap and rice. I made a quick stop at Walgreen’s for supplies and then had a vanilla latte at Boba Café.
The cottage was super cute, and I sat in complete silence often for the two days I was there. I read the first chapter of “Lies Women Believe” and completed section 1 in the workbook. After I unpacked, I headed out to Woodbury Market & Deli where I appreciated the simplicity of the grocery store. My ribeye steaks were really good, and I would totally frequent the market again.
“Rustic Grounds” was a popular place for the locals. It was quaint and decorated nicely. My chai tea latte and breakfast tacos were awesome! Woodbury is known for its antique shops, which I hope to check out next time. I was looking for a fitness center but came up short. This is something that would be beneficial to the residents.
I drove about 30 minutes to Murfreesboro to the “Brass Horn” where I met my cousin for coffee. The place was packed and hopping with people coming in and out. I did a quick Google search of the various populations, and it stated that Murfreesboro’s is 169,321 compared to Woodbury’s 2,703!
My cousin Shawn and his wife own “The Alley on Main” that has done really well for over ten years. In August 2024, they opened “1 of 19” cocktail and raw bar and are enjoying serving their guests creative cocktails and small plates. My Murfreesboro trip ended with having lunch with my best friend, Renee at BB&B (Boro, Bourbon, & Brews.) The burgers and cheese curds were on point.
When I checked out of my cottage, I headed to College Grove, which is a beautiful area in Williamson County. I drove to various small towns to get acquainted with what each had to offer. Leiper’s Fork is an area in Franklin that has really cute shops and beautiful rolling hills. It was quite picturesque, and I can see why people want to live there.
“Patina” offers amazing, well-made home goods and “David Arms” is a very talented artist. His shop was impressive, and I purchased a bookmark with a cardinal on the front that said, “May the Lord show you His favor and give you His peace.” I was drawn to this because I had seen a cardinal fly in front of me as I was driving two days in a row in Woodbury. The cardinal signifies hope, good luck, and new beginnings.
We made a quick stop at the “The Fried Tator Cafe” in Rockvale and the “Amish Bakery & Feed Mill” in Nolensville for the best cinnamon rolls I’ve ever had. Bell Buckle’s shops had a lot to offer. “Simplicity” was a vintage shop that I could have spent hours in and “Simply Sweet” bakery was tucked in the back. It had inviting cannoli cookies and pumpkin rolls and many others. The owner sat and chatted with us while we were there. We frequented “Grindstone Cowboy” in Eagleville where singers perform throughout the month. They are open for breakfast and lunch and host events. We saw the Tenkillers perform. I loved the vibe and am looking forward to getting back there.
My middle Tennessee trip ended with a church service at the “Experience” in Murfreesboro. I have been there two or three other times during my visits and it’s very similar to where I attend Oakpointe Church in Novi, Michigan. The message from pastor Corey Trimble was to acknowledge you need help, know you have a willing helper, remember that life is precious and you need to take inventory of how you’re living, and apply these tasks to your life.
This article was fun to write as I got to “re-experience” my trip all over again! If you’re not getting nervous or excited occasionally, then you’re not living life to the fullest. I appreciated the warmer weather and would like to permanently venture to that part of the country in the near future. Living in a moderate climate is life-changing as it allows you to get outside more. I’m looking forward to reporting on my next trip to Tennessee!
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