Rhythm and Roots 2011

This past weekend is absolutely one of my favorite weekends throughout the year.  If you read my blog, then you already know that I was born, raised and still live in Bristol, TN. Most people know Bristol is home to the "World's Fastest Half Mile," Bristol Motor Speedway, but most people don't know that Bristol is also the "Birthplace of Country Music." In 1927, the "Bristol Sessions" were recorded by The Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers in downtown Bristol, making it the birthplace of country music. Today, you can hear live music almost any day during the week celebrating our country and bluegrass roots. On the third weekend of September every year, the downtown area shuts down to host The Rhythm and Roots Reunion. This three day music festival brings in thousands of people from all over to hear the local talent in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. The festival also brings in a few famous singers to perform on the main stages. Twenty-one stages are set up in the streets, inside restaurants and bars with over 150 bands performing. 

I was excited all week and could not wait for Friday to come so I could head downtown for all the fun.

My favorite band, Folk Soul Revival performing Friday night.

John Oates Band performing Friday night.

What is a southern festival without a funnel cake?

The state line that runs through the middle of State Street dividing Bristol, TN and Bristol, VA.

 Famous Bristol sign over State Street.

I am already excited for next year's festival!

Tasha

Taylor Swift Concert

On July 1st, my nine year old niece and I went on a little road trip to Knoxville, Tennessee. We were going to do a little shopping, have dinner and then go see Taylor Swift. 

Here we are all ready to go! After the two hour drive, Miss Priss wasn't very excited about the mall...at all. So, I dashed into the few important stores and then we headed to the hotel. We were staying in the middle of downtown and I was so thankful. We were only one minute away from the concert. Once we were checked in, we headed up to the room to rest for a minute.

We went to Calhoun's On the River for dinner. It is one of my favorite places to eat in Knoxville. During football season it is filled with orange on game day. It is a must if you are going to Knoxville, especially if your going to a football game. It is directly across from the University, Neyland Stadium and Thompson-Boling Arena.  I had my favorite salad EVER!!! and then we headed across the street for the show. 

Oh, our waitress told us as we were leaving that Taylor Swift and her band were at Calhoun's eating an hour before we got there.

We could see Taylor Swift's bus as we were walking in.

Waiting for the show to start!

I was very surprised at how wonderful this concert turned out to be. Taylor is gorgeous in person and put on a great show. I would definitely see her again!

Need To Breathe was the opening act for Taylor. I had never heard of this band but they were awesome and now I am obsessed. They are a band from Charleston, South Carolina. Watch this You Tube video and I promise you will be obsessed too!



Have a great day!

Tasha

Hello! Hello!

I just realized my last post was well over a month ago. A lot has happened since then...

This little cutie was born on June 15th! Everyone meet Kingston! (You are going to hear a lot about him in the future.)

I saw this pretty lady in concert with my niece in Knoxville on July 1st. (A post is coming up about this wonderful day.)

I had a wonderful July 4th with my sweet family and friends! (That is another post coming!)

I am so excited to announce that I am headed to my favorite place...The Great State of Texas...this Saturday.

My parents and I are road-tripping it from Tennessee to Texas (Lord help me!). I am usually a flyer, I like to get to my destination in the least amount of time possible. I am excited because we will be stopping in little cities along the way for me to explore. 

 I am very excited to meet this lovely lady in Memphis. Nicole has become a wonderful friend and I can't wait to meet her in person. (Sorry Nicole, I stole this picture from your blog.) 

Check back for post in the next few days! I plan on posting everyday of my trip starting on Sunday!

Have a great Wednesday!

Tasha