Well, I had about as surreal a time in Nashville as I could have ever dreamed of.   I got to perform in 3 different venues, and was even asked to sing (albeit briefly) at centre stage on the Grand Ole Opry (and had I known I would have dressed better – doh!), and fulfilled my goal to meet Terri Clark and give her my songs.  I still cannot believe how wonderful the people were!

Here are some of the highlights:

• Performing my FIRST Nashville show at the Row, 7:30-8:00pm.  This is where Brooks & Dunn were discovered, and where the songwriter of “Friends in Low Places” sold the rights to the song to cover his bar tab.
• Making it into the Bluebird Cafe songwriter showcase.  I stood in a lineup of 300+ people for a spot.  Got my name drawn from a hat to get a slot (35 people spread over 3 hours), and then managed to get a number drawn that fit in with my already scheduled show at the Row (I was #32)  on the same night.  I thought I’d have about 15 minutes breathing room once I arrived at the Bluebird, but when I stuck my head in the door, guess what act was just finishing her song? #31!   I literally grabbed my guitar, bolted to the stage and sang.  Amazing.
• Getting a tour of the Grand Ole Opry – magical.  The tourguide and I were chatting – and when he found out I was a singer, he insisted I get up and sing at Centre stage of the Opry.   There wasn’t an audience (except all the other people on the tour) but I am sure all the ghosts of Johnny, June, Hank, Patsy, and Loretta were listening….wow.
• Meeting and bowling with Terri Clark.  For those of you who always thought I looked or seemed like her, you were right.  She and I are very much alike in personality — she is hilarious, and loves to goof around – we had a ball (bowling ball!) together!  In the photo below, she was making fun of me going down on one knee to bowl (so insisted we did this in the photo).  And, that’s my CD with songs she is holding in her hand.
• Singing with Randy Moore on the last night.  Magically great singer/songwriter.   He was so talented and kind – like he was singing just for us.  (Even took a few special requests!)   Perfect way to end the trip.

One thing about Nashville – you go there expecting everybody to be competitive or snooty about outsiders, but the opposite is true.  They were warm, helpful, and ready to give any help or shot we asked them for.   Amazing.  I will definitely be back!