Milestone birthdays are always special, but when two family members share the same birth date, it calls for an epic celebration. This year, my husband Rich turned 40, and my mother-in-law Roxanne somehow always get younger. Their shared wish? A weekend getaway to Nashville with the whole family, including our teen cousins Aiden and Caleb. Let me take you through our whirlwind adventure in Music City and beyond!
Day One: Arrival and Culinary Adventures
Our journey kicked off with lunch at Hugh-Baby’s BBQ & Burger Shop. While some of us were already fans, it was a first for the parents. Spoiler alert: it was a hit! The casual, family-friendly vibe and mouthwatering menu made it the perfect start to our celebration.
Next up was check-in at the Hilton Franklin Cool Springs. Let me tell you, this hotel was a revelation! We snagged rooms on the 6th floor (highly recommend!) with odd numbers, treating us to breathtaking views of the Tennessee hills through floor-to-ceiling windows. The sage-scented bath products were a luxurious touch, leaving us feeling pampered and grounded. Plus, the location offered a perfect balance – close enough to the action but far from the downtown hustle, all at a fraction of the price.
Mall Adventures and Celebrity Sightings
Our afternoon at The Mall at Green Hills turned into an unexpected perfume masterclass, courtesy of our entrepreneurial cousin. His knowledge impressed even the store associates! But the real showstopper? A chance encounter with Jessie James Decker and her family. Incredibly, this wasn’t our first Nashville celebrity sighting – we’d bumped into her a few years ago during another 40th birthday trip. What are the odds?
A Feast for the Senses
Dinner at Hawkers Asian Street Food was a culinary adventure. We convinced even our pickiest eaters to give it a try, and they were not disappointed. Our feast included Roti Canai, Golden Wontons, Soup Dumplings, Hong Kong Sticky Ribs, Chicken Egg Rolls, Po Po Lo’s Chicken Curry, Chicken Lo Mein, and Ramen. The small plates concept allowed us to sample a variety of dishes, each more delicious than the last.
We capped off the night with a sweet treat at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. If you go, don’t miss their Gooey Butter Cake flavor – it’s to die for!
Day Two: Birthday Celebrations in Franklin
The actual birthday morning began at Biscuit Love in Franklin. Housed in a stunning building reminiscent of the Creel House from Stranger Things, it set the perfect backdrop for our celebration. We indulged in birthday “bonuts,” the famous East Nasty, and more delectable breakfast treats.
Exploring Franklin’s Charm
Post-breakfast, we stumbled upon the Bluegrass Festival in Downtown Franklin. The lively atmosphere was infectious, making us wish we had more time to enjoy the festivities. We then made our way to The Factory at Franklin, a delightful complex filled with shops, eateries, and local charm. Our favorite discovery? Fork of the South – a store that perfectly captures the essence of Southern living.
Final Adventures
Our weekend wrapped up with some retail therapy at Opry Mills and a delicious dinner at Five Points Pizza. It was the perfect end to a birthday celebration filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.
This milestone birthday weekend in Nashville and Franklin was more than just a getaway – it was a beautiful reminder of the joy that comes from celebrating life’s big moments with those we love most. Here’s to many more adventures and shared birthdays in the years to come! As we explored the vibrant streets adorned with music and art, we took the time to savor the local flavors, indulging in delightful Nashville coffee culture experiences that enriched our celebration. Each cup not only fueled our adventures but also deepened our connections as we shared stories and laughter over warm drinks. It’s these little moments that truly make our gatherings memorable, reminding us of the importance of cherishing each other amidst our busy lives.
