#PatioWeather: 18 of the Best Patios in Nashville

With daylight savings time & warmer, sunnier days ahead, I figured putting together a list of some of the best patios & rooftops in Nashville might be a good idea !! Grab some friends & go enjoy some live music, great food & ice cold drinks in the best city there is to do it in!! 

ACME Feed & Seed Rooftop Patio

PC: @acmenashville

PC: @acmenashville

ACME has some of the best views there are in Nashville!! Located downtown, you are overlooking the Cumberland River, Nissan Stadium and the Pedestrian & Korean Veteran's Blvd bridges and also can see all the way down Broadway.  It's the perfect place to pre-game before Titans games or just plain awesome for any sunny day!  They also have a live DJ which makes for a fun time!

BarTaco 

PC: @ehall0202

PC: @ehall0202

PC: @chelsea_lung

PC: @chelsea_lung

Bar Taco, located in 12 South, is the newest stylish Mexican spot serving serving classic & creative tacos.  Casual atmosphere and great place to go with a group !!  Their food is amazing !! 

Taco Mamacita 

PC: Google

PC: Google

PC: @tacomamanash

PC: @tacomamanash

Taco Mamacita's is located in Edgehill Village.  Another great Mexican restaurant with inventive tacos and enchiladas!  This is also a great place to go with a group! I spent my last birthday there with 25 of my closest friends! Great atmosphere !! 

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Rooftop 

PC: @olddog64

PC: @olddog64

PC: @m_a_fernando

PC: @m_a_fernando

Tootsie's is one of the oldest and most famous Honky Tonks downtown Nashville has to offer.  Located on Broadway, the newest addition to Tootsie's is their rooftop bar with up close views of the "Batman building", Bridgestone Arena and birds eye view of Broadway.  It's the perfect place to people watch and listen to some great live music!

Virago Rooftop Patio 

PC: @Viragonashville

PC: @Viragonashville

Virago has one of my most favorite ambiance's Nashville has to offer.  Located in the Gulch you can enjoy some sake,delicious sushi and Nashville's beautiful skyline. The music, atmosphere and view is amazing. What more can you ask for.

Rippy's Rooftop Patio 

PC: @Nestorandresstx

PC: @Nestorandresstx

Another one of Nashville's most popular Honky Tonks on Broadway is Rippy's. You are sure to find a big crowd, live music and amazing BBQ!  It's directly across the street from Bridgestone Arena and is a great place to go to pre-game before a Pred's game!

Saint Añejo  

PC: @saintanejo

PC: @saintanejo

PC: Google

PC: Google

Located in the Gulch, Saint Anejo is an upscale Mexican restaurant with a "cantina chic" atmosphere.  The outdoor patio is the perfect place to enjoy one of their signature margaritas or some of their delicious queso or freshly made guacamole.

Tavern  

PC: @nashvilleguru

PC: @nashvilleguru

Tavern is located in Midtown.  It's a sleek gastropub serving retro cocktails, small plates and tacos.  I also HIGHLY recommend their s'mores !!  Seriously to die for.  I actually want some right now!

Rebar 

PC: Yelp

PC: Yelp

Located in Midtown, Rebar has always been one of my favorite places to go out to in Nashville.  It's a very chill atmosphere and always a good time.  Make sure to grab a bushwacker, theirs are the best I've had in town.

Blue Moon Waterfront Grille 

PC: @ambi_bambi

PC: @ambi_bambi

Blue Moon Waterfront Grille is one of my most favorite places to go in Nashville.  It's located on the Cumberland River at Rock Harbor Marina.  It's the perfect little escape and they have delicious seafood.   Makes you want to listen to some Otis Redding.  They will be re-opening in mid-March and I hear may be bringing out some live music right being played right on the water. If you have never been, do yourself a favor & check it out.

San Antonio Taco Co. 

PC: @sprsprty

PC: @sprsprty

San Antonio Taco Co. is located near Vanderbilt.  This Tex-Mex style restaurant is known for their homemade tortillas, award winning Chili Con Queso and awesome patio!!  

Bar Louie 

PC: @live_nashville

PC: @live_nashville

You can find Bar Louie in the Gulch!  They also have a great patio at their Murfreesboro location but the Nashville location is my favorite!  It's a great place to "eat, drink and be happy." I love their relaxed atmosphere and location! Parking is easy so that's always a plus!  

5th & Taylor 

PC: @danieljaes_ent

PC: @danieljaes_ent

5th and Taylor in historic Germantown has a rustic-industrial modern feel. Their patio is beautiful, especially at night & has more of a neighborhood feel. It's very spacious which is good for anyone who doesn't like to be crowded. I love the Germantown area and this restaurant is amazing !! 

M.L. Rose Craft Beer & Burgers 

image.jpg
PC: @tnbrewworks

PC: @tnbrewworks

M.L. Rose has two locations one on Franklin Road and the other is off of Charlotte Pike ! They are known for their wide selection of craft beers and have the best burgers! Both offer awesome patios but I think my favorite is going to be the one on Franklin rd.  They just expanded it and upgraded it like crazy !! It is going to be such a pretty, fun and chill place to hang out !! 

Jackson's 

PC: @jacksonsnash

PC: @jacksonsnash

Located in Hillsboro Village, Jackson's patio is another one of my favorite patios to hang out on.  It's also great for people watching and don't be surprised if you see Taylor Swift or the entire cast of "Nashville" walking by. 

The Treehouse 

pc: @thetreehousenashville

pc: @thetreehousenashville

The Treehouse is a very unique & creative restaurant located in East Nashville.  It's a very charming place and somewhat romantic!  If you are in the area be sure to check it out.  

Pinewood Social 

PC: @travelinsider

PC: @travelinsider

Pinewood Social is located downtown and down by the river.  They offer bowling , food, cocktails and their outdoor patio even has a pool and bocce ball! It's a social gathering place that can accommodate just about anyone's needs!  

Tennessee Brew Works Taproom 

PC: Google

PC: Google

TN Brew Works is a brewery but they also have the Tennessee Taproom which has live music, food and pints, samplers and even growlers of their brews !! Awesome patio and great set up! 

I hope you all enjoy and as always thank you for reading !! XOXO- Amber

6 New Ways to Look & Feel Gorgeous at The Hot Spa by Hot Spot Tanning

I bet when you all think of having a "spa day" you would never think having one at a tanning bed, right ? Yeah I wouldn't either, until now.  Hot Spot Tanning has always been my go to place if I ever need a last minute spray tan and where I have gone in the past years, when I tanned regularly.  Their locations are convenient because just about anywhere I've ever lived (yes, I'm a gypsy) there always seems to be a location nearby.  There are several in Murfreesboro(Memorial, Rutherford Blvd, Church Street, Rucker Lane) some in Smyrna (Almaville & Sam Ridley), even a Brentwood( Nolensville Road) and a Nashville( West End) location.  With my busy schedule, convenience is key!  I was lucky enough to get to try each of the new spa services yesterday & let me tell you, when I left, I felt ahhhh-mazing!  

Before I begin telling y'all about my experience with each of the spa services, I want to talk a little about the atmosphere of their location on Memorial Blvd. beside the Murfreesboro Athletic Club or the MAC.  This is their Hot Spa location but some of these services are offered at other locations too.  When you walk in, other than there being tanning lotion for sale behind the front desk, it doesn't have a tanning bed feeling at all.  Most tanning beds I've ever been to have been very bright and almost tropical feeling but this was very soothing.  Calming colors and the smell of essential oils were in the air.  I felt more relaxed as soon as I walked in the door. 

image.jpg
image.jpg
image.jpg
image.jpg

Here comes the fun stuff:

Blue Light Therapy:Acu-Clear 

This blue light therapy is Dermatologist recommended for people of any age with current acne breakouts or red spots.  It uses medical grade blue LED lights to kill bacteria that causes spots and helps to prevent new breakouts, regulates oil production , calms and relaxes you as well as minimizing any scarring you may have on your face.  I don't usually get breakouts too often but I tried this one so I could tell you all what it's like.  When you see the mask and put it on it looks like something out of a Black Eyed Peas video.  It was really futuristic and almost astronaut helmet feeling, but very lightweight.  They place it over your head and you sit in a massaging chair the entire time (20 minutes) , you even get to put your legs up and they get massaged too.  Very relaxing to say the least.  The room was also very comfortable, smells great and they even offered me a spa robe and shoes.  When I think about light therapy of any kind I would almost expect that it would hurt but it was completely painless and when I took the mask off it only made my face feel a little tingley and good. My favorite part was sending my friends snapchats, looking crazy.  None of them probably even realize it wasn't one of those crazy snapchat filters until now.  This service is $20 a visit.  

image.jpg
image.jpg
image.jpg

Lumiere Excel

 Anyone who is looking to slow down the aging process, correcting current aging effects such as minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes , evening out pigmentation or someone who wants a painless, non-invasive anti-aging regimen; this is for you.   The Lumiere is a twenty minute treatment and again completely painless.  You sit in the same massaging chair as in the blue light therapy.  You wear goggles and when they initially turn on the red light it's very bright, even with your eyes closed, but don't worry it goes away after about ten seconds so don't let it freak you out.  This treatment uses red light LED therapy to restore radiance back into the skin, detoxifies, stimulates collagen synthesis and can even smooth out dry or rough skin.  The red light therapy is able to penetrate deeper than just the surface.  I really loved this treatment!  I somehow have the wrinkles of a 90 year old so I will be back. This service is $20 per visit and they can discuss with you how many you may need. 

image.jpg
image.jpg
     

   

  

Kwik Fit 

 The first thing I will say about this machine is that you stand on it for just 10 minutes and it's the equivalent of doing 30 minutes of cardio.  How can you can really beat that? I personally hate doing cardio so I was sold !! It's perfect for anyone who has a very limited amount of time to work out or someone who has physical limitations to workouts at the gym. It has vibrating plates that help with arthritis relief, restoration of balance, strengthening bone, weight management, blood sugar balance, sleep improvement and a healthier heart.  You will most likely feel silly on this machine, but you will definitely feel the effects when you get off! This is $10 a visit.  

image.jpg
Believe Bed: Red Light Therapy Rejuvination ​

The Believe bed is perfect for anyone wanting to add hydration back into the skin, relax muscles or improve scarring and uneven skin tones.  This one looks like a tanning bed but it's actually your whole body getting the benefits of the red light therapy.  This is more of an over all skin ehancing machine!  I have some scars I want to get rid of so that was the most exciting part of this to me.  It can fade scars or stretch marks and can reduce spider veins or broken capillaries.  This also provides several benefits for people with injuries or pain by reducing inflammation and pain, increasing circulation, restoring range of motion and can speed up the healing of wounds.  Only takes 15 minutes and $10 a session.  

image.jpg
image.jpg
   

   

Cocoon Wellness Pod "The Pod"​

I don't know if there are enough good words to say about this one !  I've never experienced anything like it or felt so good as I did when I got out.  This would be great for anyone who wants a quick way to relax, relieve pain or muscle tension.  This detoxifies the body, alleviates stress, helps with water retention , bloating and even cramps !! It combines heat, massage and magnetic fields to create a SUPER relaxing, healing environment.  You put on a sweat suit (this will make you feel like you're in a Missy Elliot music video from the 90's), which is extremely comfortable, then lay in a bed which your body will absolutely melt into.  It is almost like being in sauna, without the almost suffocating feel that comes with it because your head remains outside of the heat.  Your neck and  down will only be inside the cocoon and you are able to adjust the intensity of the massage speed and intensity on both your upper and lower body.  There are even little holes that your hands come through if you need to make any adjustments.  Being in "the Pod" you will burn up to 300 calories in just 30 minutes.  The temperature inside by the time you will be done with your session gets up to 170 degrees, which sounds crazy but it's abslutely refreshing.  If you ever get too hot you are able to get   I don't think I have ever sweated that much in my entire life.  I normally don't like to sweat at all but I guess there's a first time for everything.  I think I fell asleep a couple times, which I think most people do in there, and when I left there I felt better than I do after getting an hour massage that I pay between seventy to one hundred dollars for!  When you get out you will want to drink plenty of water(room temperature so that your body doesn't go into shock) which The Hot Spa provides you. There will be a towel to dry off your body, a cool wet towel for your face, spray deodorant and body spray so that you can freshen up.  This was actually heavenly and really helped out with my super sore muscles from working out.  I've had a pretty crazy week and it was just what I needed.  I highly recommend this! A session is just $35. 

image.jpg
image.jpg
image.jpg
image.jpg
image.jpg

 Vevazz

This system is good for anyone with trouble fatty areas, anyone who would like to get a jump start on weight loss, has cellulite, needs skin tightening or diminishing stretch marks. This LED system is designed to contour the body by losing inches off specific body areas such as the waist, hips, thighs, arms and neck.  You go to a series of visits to see a change but typically people will lose 2-4 pant or dress sizes in just 42 days.  The LED alters the fat in the cells and allows it to seep out from the cell into space where it can be processed by the lymphatic system.  The fat is either used by the body as energy or the body will process it out.  They place 8 pads on your choice of troubled fatty area ( I chose my stomach to try) for 7 minute treatments, so this is very quick.  I felt absolutely no pain at all, only little tiny pulsing.  When I heard about this originally I was also expecting it to hurt but nothing at all me feel the least bit uncomfortable.

The salon manager Mitzi as well as Jami both thoroughly explained every single thing I was having done and made sure I understood it as well as felt comfortable the whole step of the way!  They were extremely professional and I appreciated the fact that they believe in the services they provide.  Any of these services can be available at a lesser rate and you can even take a tour of them all, everything I mentioned except for the Vevazz , for just $49.99.  That is huge savings!! They also have an all access pass of those same services for $149 a month.  There are other ways to save money on the services by becoming a member there.  You can visit Hot Spot Tanning at http://hotspottanning.com/ or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Hot-Spot-Tanning-208396012535145/ 

 

Everyone there is awesome ! I highly recommend going to check them out for yourself, especially these new spa services. Thank you as always for reading ! XOXO -Amber 

Brunch So Hard: Nashville Style

Now that the weekend is here, it's time to think about the most important & "Nashvillian" meal there is, BRUNCH!   As we all know, eating really good food is my all time favorite hobby, and I go out to eat just about every meal so naturally people are always asking me for suggestions of where to eat.  This one required a little work and opinions of some of my friends, but I think you all will thoroughly enjoy this list I have put together for y'all of the best places to brunch in Nashville !!  I have also spoken to someone at each of these restaurants to ask what their most popular brunch item people order is or what they are known for.  These are not in any particular order but here we go!!

Saint Añejo 

 1120 McGavock St

Nashville, TN  37203

brunch hours: Saturday & Sunday 10-3 ​

Saint Añejo has killer bloody Mary's, margaritas and chicken and waffles !! ​

Photo credit: @Styleblueprintnville

Photo credit: @Styleblueprintnville

 The Southern 

 150 3rd Ave S

Unit 110

Nashville, TN  37201

http://thesouthernnashville.com/menu/

brunch hours: Saturday & Sunday 9:30-3

The Southern is one of my personal favorites because I love the atmosphere.  I especially love the way it's laid out.  Their three most popular brunch items are "The Highway" , "Steak & Biscuit Benedict"  and "Hot chicken salad" 

Photo credit: @kath_fessler on Instagram  

Photo credit: @kath_fessler on Instagram  

Tavern 

1904 Broadway 

Nashville, TN 37203

brunch hours: Saturday & Sunday 9:45-3

Tavern is located in Midtown and the three most requested brunch items are the "Singapore Stirfry", "Benedict Uno",  "Huevos Rancheros"  and of course their Bloody Mary.

Photo credit: Andy.elizabeth Instagram  

Photo credit: Andy.elizabeth Instagram  

 Mad Donna's 

 1313 Woodland St

Nashville, TN  37206

 http://media.wix.com/ugd/007501_57957ef0892142029d29c01ad3ef579e.pdf

brunch hours: Monday - Friday 11-3 Saturday & Sunday 9-3

Mad Donna's is known for their build your own Bloody Mary bar, mimosas "Captain's French Toast" and the burgers !!  

Photo credit: @the_southern_wave Instagram

Photo credit: @the_southern_wave Instagram

5th and Taylor 

 1411 5th Ave N

Nashville, TN  37208

 http://www.5thandtaylor.com/menu-marquee/

5th and Taylor is located in Germantown and it's most popular brunch items are the "Monkey Bread" as a starter and the "chicken sausage scramble" ​

Photo credit: @5thandtaylor Instagram  

Photo credit: @5thandtaylor Instagram  

 Biscuit Love Brunch 

 316 11th Ave S

Nashville, TN  37203

 http://www.biscuitlove.com/

brunch hours: Monday through Sunday from 7-3  

Biscuit Love Brunch is located in the Gulch and their 3 most popular items are the "Bo-nuts" (biscuit donuts)  "The East Nasty" and the "Southern Benny" 

Bo-nuts (photo credit: @biscuitlovebrunch on Instagram)  

Bo-nuts (photo credit: @biscuitlovebrunch on Instagram)  

​Kitchen Notes

​250 5th Ave S

Nashville, TN 37203

brunch hours: ​Sunday 9-2:30

Kitchen Notes is located in the Omni Hotel right downtown.  It's known for its large buffet as well as the carving station that features different items such as meat, poultry or seafood each week.​

Photo credit: @healthfullyeverafter

Photo credit: @healthfullyeverafter

South 

​1524 Demonbreun St

Nashville, TN 37203​

http://south-nashville.com/provisions

brunch hours: Saturday 11-2 Sunday 11-3​

South is always a good time for brunch! Located on Demonbreun and they offer bottomless mimosas & bloody Mary's for just $15​.   Most people order the French toast or "South Eggs Beauregard".

Photo credit: @southnashville

Photo credit: @southnashville

 Jackson's  

 1800 21st Ave S

Nashville, TN  37212

http://jacksonsbarandbistro.com/nashville/menus/

brunch hours: all day every day

Jackson's is located in Hillsboro village and the favorite items are the chicken biscuits, the French toast and the Bloody Mary's.

Photo credit: @jacksonsnash Instagram  

Photo credit: @jacksonsnash Instagram  

 Flipside 

2403 12th Ave S

Nashville, TN  37204

 http://www.theflipside12south.com/menu/

brunch hours: Saturday & Sunday 11-3

Flipside is located in 12 South and known for it's drink "The Big Fix" , chicken and waffles and the "AM Tots" 

Photo credit: @theflipsidenash  

Photo credit: @theflipsidenash  

Urban Grub 

2506 12th Ave S

Nashville, TN  37204

http://urbangrub.net/the-menu/

brunch hours: Saturday & Sunday 11-3

Urban Grub is located in 12 South & the most desired items are the chicken & waffles and the "Oscar Benny" 

Photo credit: @down2eatNash instagram

Photo credit: @down2eatNash instagram

Sinema 

 2600 Franklin Pike

Unit 102

Nashville, TN  37204

brunch hours: Sunday 10:30-2​

 http://places.singleplatform.com/sinema/menu?ref=integration#all-menus

Sinema seems to be a favorite of almost everyone I asked.  The most desired items are "Mazel Toast!" and the "Croque Madame".

Photo credit @sinemanashville Instagram  

Photo credit @sinemanashville Instagram  

 Marchè Artisan Foods 

1000 Main St

East Nashville, TN  37206-3626

http://www.marcheartisanfoods.com/menus/sunday-brunch

brunch hours: Friday 8-4 Saturday & Sunday 9-4 

Located in East Nashville,  two of their most popular brunch items "Crossiant French Toast with powdered sugar & Vermont maple syrup" and the house made granola.

Photo credit : Sinclair Dotson 

Photo credit : Sinclair Dotson 

I know I missed some really great places and will be doing more lists of places to eat in Nashville for dinner , and will do one of any brunch places I come across that I fall in love with!  Please share & I hope you all enjoy !!   Happy Brunchin' XOXO- Amber 

Top 10 Can't Live Without Beauty Products

Y'all know those products you find and you try out once, then can never live without them again?  No matter how much they cost you, you have to have them?  Well I wanted to share with you guys some of mine!!  Some of them are a little on the pricier side and I almost wish I never tried them, but it's too late now and they work perfect for me so here we go.

1. I will start with my most favorite makeup wipes in the history of ever.  You can buy them at Target and a pack of 45 will run you about $10.  I love the way they make my face feel and the smell is awesome!! The brand is YES TO.  I like to make them last so I actually tear them in half so I don't have to go back to Target so often.  You know how that goes, walk in for one thing (a $10 dollar pack of makeup wipes, leave with a new chair for your living room, 12 picture frames, 17 bags of candy, 5 new shirts for a grand total of $1542. Yeah, I try to stay FAR away.

2. EVO "Water Killer" Dry Shampoo.  This product will run you about $25 and its the absolute BEST dry shampoo I've ever found in my life.  I use to be the girl who had to wash my hair every single day, but lets be honest, who really has time for that?  I know if I have to make the decision between wash my hair or sleep an extra 30 minutes in the morning, I'm going with sleep, EVERY time.  I can go about 4 days until I have to wash my hair again.  This gives you body and fullness as well as makes your hair look and smell clean.  It's basically like magic.  I buy mine at Parlour 3 in Brentwood.

3. Strobe Cream from MAC.  I love this face lotion.  It makes my face shimmery like Edward Cullen, and I mean c'mon who doesn't love a good shimmer? This moisturizes and makes your skin more radiant.  I guess you can say it takes away any dull or tired appearance.  It brightens your skin with vitamins, green tea, andioxidants and iridescent particles.   So in a nutshell I would say it gives you a healthy looking glow, without even being pregnant. Ha . This is $33 for 1.7 ounces , so it will last you awhile !! 

 

image.jpg

4. Anastasia Beverly Hills contour kit (powder version) .  I bought mine at Ulta for $40.  This kit is amazing for contouring and highlighting, and quite frankly making my cheek bones look way cooler than they actually are.  I have the light to medium shade kit and it includes 3 highlighting shades and 3 for contouring. Using this can help emphasize your cheeks, jawline, nose and even your eyes.  A complete game changer !  

 

image.jpg

5 and 6:  Honey Love lipstick & Nightmoth lip liner both from MAC.  I actually tried this combination out by mistake and ever since I've been hooked.  When you see these next 2 pictures y'all are going to think I'm crazy but I promise people ask me what lip color I'm wearing almost every day. It is a nude lipstick with a very dark lip liner . And put together it makes (for me) the perfect shade of mauvey nude. 

image.jpg
image.jpg

7. "They're Real" mascara by Benefit.  This mascara is $24 and can be purchased at Ulta or Sephora.  I've tried a million different mascaras it seems and this is the one that works best for me ! It actually makes you look like you're wearing fake eyelashes. It seperates your lashes perfectly and makes them look super long. Not like tarantulas like other pricey mascara I have tried.   

 

image.jpg

8. "Burgundy times 9" eyeshadow palette by MAC. $40 I'm a BIG fan of eyeshadow palettes in general because I love a good bargain. When you think of how much this would cost if you bought all these colors seperately, your head would spin.  As I said in my last blog post I have green eyes and I really like to wear colors (when I wear eyeshadow) that make them pop.  Mauvey, pinkish or purple shades really do the trick ! I love this palette in particular because it has some shimmery colors and some matte colors and I like to change it up sometimes. My absolute favorites I wear are the top 2 on the left and the bottom middle.  

image.jpg

9. Frankie Rose "matte perfection foundation" in the shade neutral.  I was only introduced to this foundation Saturday and I'm already addicted. Same with my item number 10.  I've been getting compliments ever since I got it. I have heard things like "it's not as cake like" (yes apparently my face looked like dessert before) and "your face looks a lot more smooth".  It doesn't feel like I'm wearing a lot of makeup and it matches perfectly. So happy I found it!!  $33 and I think it can only be purchased online or at Parlour 3 in Brentwood.

 

image.jpg

10. Amazing Cosmetics "Amazing concealer" in light beige.   $42 and I purchased at Parlour 3 as well.  I have naturally very dark circles around my eyes and I can't ever seem to figure out how to cover them up!  This has actually done the trick!  I apply my foundation first and the concealer afterwards.  It's definitely the best concealer I've ever used. It says "The World's Best Concealer" right on the box & I like a company confident enough to put that right on the product!  Seriously where has this stuff been all my life !? 

 

image.jpg

I hope if you get the chance to try any of these amazing products you love them as much as I do and as always thanks for reading and sharing !! XOXO- Amber

Radnor Lake: Good for the Mind, Body and Soul

Can we talk about what a gorgeous day we are having here in Nashville.  Last time I checked it was 71 degrees, which is crazy considering just yesterday I had to wait 10 minutes for my icy windows on my car to melt.  I think it's safe to say that we have the most bipolar weather in the history of anywhere.  There is nothing better in the South than a good sunshiny day that feels like Spring or Fall and being able to ride around with your music blasting and windows down.  I am off work today and luckily my roommate asked me what the weather was supposed to be like and at the time it was sixty degrees so I knew I had to get out of the house.  Last time we had a day like this, the only thing I walked outside for was to get something out of my car, and I'm still mad at myself about it.  I just spend about 70 percent of my life (aka the only time I'm not at work) in sweatpants or Yoga pants these days and I guess I just didn't want to leave them.  PS I have never done yoga in my life but Lululemon yoga pants are still my BFF.

Today I decided to do something where I could wear my sweatpants and no one could judge me because I look sporty.  I think the key to life is wearing workout clothes all the time in public, that way you can be comfortable and if you look like crap people won't judge you because they will think "she just worked out" and they can't hate on that. See what I mean? 

There is this magical place that unfortunately I never knew about until about 6 months ago that makes me genuinely happy anytime I have ever been, Radnor Lake State Park.  Radnor Lake is a 1,332-acre park and is protected as a Class II Natural Area. It is unique due to the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities, environmental education programs, hiking opportunities and its location in an urban area. The park is day-use only and the more than six miles of trail are strictly used for hiking, photography and wildlife observation. Pets, jogging and bicycles are only allowed on the Otter Creek Road trail. The Lake Trail is accessible to people with all-terrain wheelchairs.

Radnor Lake is located at 1114 Otter Creek Road in Nashville and pretty close to Brentwood. The trail I go on is the Lake Trail, I start in the parking lot and head into the woods (there are signs up to show you where to go.)  The route I take is about 2.5 miles long and it's mainly flat but there are a few inclines and it will get your heart rate up and fresh air in your lungs, your legs a little more toned, as well as seeing some beautiful scenery.   You seriously never know what you are going to see while walking through the trail.  You are in the woods walking the trail surrounding the beautiful lake, so naturally you will see lots of different animals.  I have seen deer, owls, turtles, ducks, geese, and turkeys so far.  These deer will literally be walking 3 feet away from you.  It's pretty awesome actually.  I remember the first time I ever went, feeling like Snow White in a forest.  I even tried talking to the deer to get them to look my way for pictures.  Don't worry they didn't talk back, lol.  I chose this trail because it's not as difficult as some of the others. Have I ever mentioned I'm not very athletic?  Blogging is now my cardio.

I actually love going by myself.  Although thinking about being in the middle of the woods with nothing but a bunch of animals and strangers who pass by, mostly in groups of 2, is a little bit creepy, I thoroughly enjoy it.  It gives me time to reflect on my life and get some fresh air.  I literally am not worried about anything else while I am there. The only reason I take my phone is incase I want to Snapchat the deer I pass by or take pictures.  Today I took my camera and I will be sharing photos below.  If you aren't familiar with it, it's such a beautiful and wonderful hidden treasure that I think just about anyone would enjoy.  It's a perfect place to take your kids also.  I was walking by a little pack of turkeys today and I had a little boy who was carrying a walking stick he had picked up from a broken tree, tell me to "shhhh" because he didn't want to scare them off.   It was really cute.  It's the perfect place for all ages and best of all it's FREE!  So get up, get out and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!! XOXO- Amber

You can read more about Radnor Lake State Park here www.RadnorLake.org

More Than Just Juice: Juice Bar

I think I told you all this before, but my life is a constant struggle of trying to lose weight and eating dessert.  I have been eating a little too much dessert lately & the proof is in my clothes not fitting anymore.  I've been feeling kind of blah lately and that my body is screaming "feed me something healthy".  That's why I decided to go to the Juice Bar the past 2 days for lunch. I am normally more of a meat and 3 type girl but I knew this would make me at least feel better about my life.

Juice Bar is overwhelmingly vegetarian, gluten-free, organic when possible, and always uses 100% whole fruits and vegetables.  They are definitely a  “I want to eat healthy and feel great” type place. They offer juices, smoothies, juice cleanses, superfood salads, soups and more.  Please see my pictures below to see more of what they have to offer.

On Tuesday for lunch (day about 27 of me feeling blah- I told you guys I am a procrastinator) I walked into the Juice Bar, took about 10 minutes to make a choice on which smoothie to get, which you would have thought I was making a major life decision, I decided on the "Green Smoothie."  I went with a smoothie because I like a little more substance.  To me it feels a little more like actual food , which y'all know I  love.  It's made with spinach, kale, pineapple, banana, lemon, apple juice and coconut milk.  It is the perfect blend of healthy and sweet tasting and absolutely DELICIOUS.   The best part was that it actually filled me up, and smoothies never fill me up.  They are always more like a drink to me.  I also enjoyed watching them actually placing all of the vegetables and fruits in and mixing it up in front of me, where I can see all of the fresh ingredients.  While I was there waiting on my made to order smoothie, I noticed a sign with a large bowl of soup.  Their featured soup of the day was black bean.  The nice man working asked me if I would like to try a sample.  I am not a big fan of black beans in general, so I politely declined.  He told me they have a different soup everyday and they had just finished making tomorrow's soup, which was his favorite, the garden veggie; so he gave me a sample of that.  It was so delicious I couldn't wait to get back there today on my lunch break.  I posted a photo of it below so you can see how absolutely packed with healthiness it is, but it has broccoli, carrots, celery, onions, kale, red beans, zucchini, quinoa, cilantro and maybe a little bit of a tomato base.  I seriously have never felt so healthy in my life after eating that many vegetables together at one time.  It was so filling and packed with enjoyable flavor.  I am very excited about Wednesdays now, thanks to this soup!  I also got to try their four most popular juices, the "Orange You Glad" and the "Sweet Greens" were my two favorites!!

Juice Bar has a different soup each day; Monday-tomato basil, Tuesday-black bean Wednesday-garden Veggie, Thursday- red lentil and Friday through Sunday butternut squash.  I went to the Franklin location located at 232 Fifth Avenue North Franklin, Tn, but they have locations all over the Middle Tennessee area.  Locations include Green Hills, Berry Hill, Hillsboro Village, The Gulch, Germantown, Belle Meade, Murfreesboro, Brentwood and of course Franklin.

Moral of this story if you pass by a Juice Bar, GO!  It will make you feel good on the inside as well as out.  I Just hope my clothes start to fit better.  I'm one of those people who feels like you can eat salad once and you should automatically lose 5 lbs.  I'm almost 30 and I have never known this to be more untrue. Baby steps though, baby steps.  XOXO- Amber

For Juice Bar's full menu click here www.ilovejuicebar.com

What's On My Plate: Cork & Cow

Hello again, it's me. It Is time to discuss my most favorite subject: food.  I told you guys I am an avid taker of food pictures and to know me is to know I have an opinion, about any and let's just admit it, everything.  I hope I can even write this while the Grammy awards are on in the background and all these opinions are going through my head, but I'm gonna give it my best shot.

Tonight I want to discuss my dining experience at Cork & Cow, located at 408 Main Street, in Downtown Franklin, Tn.  Franklin is a 25 minute drive from Nashville headed South.  If you have never been Downtown Franklin, you are missing out and my advice to you, go check it out.  You will not be sorry you did.  I can assure you will have a good time, even if you are just walking around.  There are several really great paces to eat, but I especially loved Cork & Cow. 

First let's talk about this presentation and the ambiance in there.  It's almost dreamy, especially in the evening.  With chandeliers, elegant white table cloths, dim lighting and my most favorite Edison lights hanging over the very well put together bar. 

We started by ordering a Moscow Mule and a "Sugarbear".  The Sugarbear was delicious an made of Picker's Vodka, blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, rubar, bitters and soda.  My favorite part about it was that it was not too sweet, and definitely not as sweet as it sounds.  I'm not a Moscow Mule person, but apparently they have one of the best around.   Next we got an order of fluffy bread, served in a small cast iron skillet that was very buttery and delicious as well as an order of one of my most favorite things I ate, the grilled lamb chops.  The grilled lamb chops were served with Mint Pepper Jelly, Chimichurri, Fried Onion and let me tell you that mint pepper jelly sounded strange to me at first but when I tasted it, it made complete sense.  Make sure you dip your lamb chops in it. SO perfect together. The next item that came out was the entrée, dry rub New York Strip.  This steak was 14 ounces and topped with lemon butter & sea salt, served with complimentary house potatoes.  I didn't realize when I ordered, that the potatoes came with it, and they were a very nice addition to the meal.  Another one of my favorite parts of dinner.  The steak was excellent and if you order appetizers and sides, you have more than enough steak to share.  I am normally a filet person when I go to nice restaurants, but this was a nice change.  For the sides, we chose the "Mac n Cheese" with applewood bacon and chilies mixed within as well as the sautéed spinach with grated parmesan.  And let me tell you, it may have been the best macaroni and cheese I've ever had at a restaurant in my whole life.  I am not sure I would order the spinach again, I would probably order an extra order of the mac n cheese again, ha. The spinach was good but I like calories and carbs a whole lot more.  The sides are a la carte and the perfect size for sharing. They had a great dessert selection, but by the time I was finished with all of this I couldn't even dream of eating dessert, and I NEVER turn down dessert.  SO FULL.

The food was very filling and I give it 5 stars!! I will definitely be back.  If you go, I recommend sitting upstairs if they have it available.  It's nice being able to enjoy seeing the beautiful décor from up there.  Thank you all for reading.  I hope if you go you enjoy it as much as I did. It's perfect for a date night or a special occasion.  Be sure to check out my photos below.  You can see their entire menu by clicking this link: http://corkandcow.com/menus . XOXO-Amber


Hello, so happy you stopped by...

Who Am I?

My name is Amber Ford, a lifelong Nashville "native". I would love to say I am a genius computer geek or a biochemist or something, but the truth is I am a scatterbrained almost 30 year old (let's not talk about that, I don't have enough Kleenex) childless, husband-less regular girl. Ok, so maybe I'm not so regular.  I work full time and spend most of my free time making the most out of experiencing all of the beauty and greatness Nashville has to offer, trying to lose weight and eating dessert. Makes sense, right?

Why Did I Want To Start a Blog?

I feel almost as if it takes me back to the good ole' days aka the Myspace and Xanga days ( man, I feel ancient).  Plus hey, what's one more form of social media?

What Can You Expect To See Posted?

Like I said in my introduction, I am very scatterbrained.  To answer this question is like someone asking me to speak in a foreign language, going to be tough.  I will be posting lots of food, I forgot to mention earlier but I am a self proclaimed food critic and an avid taker of food pictures. Yes, I am the annoying girl taking pictures of all my food with the flash on at fancy restaurants.  I will be posting about things to do around town, photos ( I just got a new pretty nice camera so I guess you could say I am an amateur photographer, but just for fun and hobby, not trying to make a career out of it) giving credit to other talented people who deserve for their talent to be showcased, probably Nashville related fashion, probably a little makeup and hair products.... you know...stuff. :)

That Wasn’t So Hard Now, Was It?

I know I won’t win any prizes for this post, but for me it’s good enough for letting people know about this blog.

Epilogue

 I’ve finally done it. I’ve set up my own blog, bought my own website, thought of a blog name, which I must say was THE hardest part of this whole thing, created my own logo and published my first post.. I hope you all will find it interesting and useful, and I look forward to your comments. XOXO- Amber