Last week we met my dear brother and his family in the historic town of Franklin, Tennessee. We had *the best* time together.
My sister-in-love took this picture of the salesman and me. I love this picture. I love the salesman. I love my sister-in-love. I love my family.
Here Victoria Leigh and I are being entertained by my dear brother and nephew AND at the very same time, I’m taking pictures of my sister-in-law and niece. I now know why those pictures of my sister-in-love and niece did not turn out so well.
Strolling toward the sunset.
It seemed that every tree was in beautiful and fragrant bloom in the area.
Victoria Leigh snapped this picture of some wisteria from the vehicle window.
Beauty in downtown Franklin.
Darlin’ teen and dear niece looking out a window.
Downtown shopping and visiting.
A beautiful old church with a magnificent arched entryway, stained glass and lovely old doors.
Simple and welcoming beauty in the city.
We visited book stores, thrift shops and could have stayed at this old book store for hours.
I enjoyed the architecture, ironwork and lighting fixtures that we saw on our walks or drives.
I also enjoyed walking with the Salesman and seeing the rest of my family meandering down the sidewalk together.
The Brownstones were beautiful – the brick, the fence, the lamp lights, the porches… 
In Nashville, Audra attended an information session and toured Vanderbilt University.
I found a lovely lamp light on the campus.
The campus and buildings were beautiful.
Everywhere we looked,
I was amazed.
We also got a peek at the Belmont college campus.
I loved this picture of my sister-in-love and sweet niece.
Audra took this artsy shot at a small gallery in the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel.
It seems like it was not to long ago that Audra was a sweet toddler captivated by the wonder of her own shadow.
But the days pass and the seasons change.
And our oldest teen is considering furthering her education.
Play another song on the jukebox please. I’d like a little more time with my family. And our oldest teen.
My sister-in-love took this picture of the salesman and me. I love this picture. I love the salesman. I love my sister-in-love. I love my family.
Here Victoria Leigh and I are being entertained by my dear brother and nephew AND at the very same time, I’m taking pictures of my sister-in-law and niece. I now know why those pictures of my sister-in-love and niece did not turn out so well.
Strolling toward the sunset.
It seemed that every tree was in beautiful and fragrant bloom in the area.
Victoria Leigh snapped this picture of some wisteria from the vehicle window.
Beauty in downtown Franklin.
Darlin’ teen and dear niece looking out a window.
Downtown shopping and visiting.
A beautiful old church with a magnificent arched entryway, stained glass and lovely old doors.
Simple and welcoming beauty in the city.
We visited book stores, thrift shops and could have stayed at this old book store for hours.
I enjoyed the architecture, ironwork and lighting fixtures that we saw on our walks or drives.
I also enjoyed walking with the Salesman and seeing the rest of my family meandering down the sidewalk together.
The Brownstones were beautiful – the brick, the fence, the lamp lights, the porches… 
In Nashville, Audra attended an information session and toured Vanderbilt University.
I found a lovely lamp light on the campus.
The campus and buildings were beautiful.
Everywhere we looked,
I was amazed.
We also got a peek at the Belmont college campus.
I loved this picture of my sister-in-love and sweet niece.
Audra took this artsy shot at a small gallery in the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel.
It seems like it was not to long ago that Audra was a sweet toddler captivated by the wonder of her own shadow.
But the days pass and the seasons change.And our oldest teen is considering furthering her education.
Play another song on the jukebox please. I’d like a little more time with my family. And our oldest teen.
This post is so full of joy! The pictures are amazing, every one. I think your smile as you cuddle next to your husband says volumes about how much you love him…and he looks mighty happy with you by his side! You enjoyed your travels with 20/20 God-given joy vision…and I’m glad you shared with us!
Oh, and the bookstore…I visited the coolest bookstore just like that in downtown San Francisco this past December. I stayed in that store for hours!
Nothing quite rips a parent’s heart like the leaving of a child, whether it be their first summer at camp, an overnight with the scouts, a sleep over with friends, the first date, or the move away to college–
are leavin’s are tough. When my eldest left 2 years ago, it nearly ripped me in two. I survived. This go around? Somewhat easier and with 2 more in the nest, I’ll be an expert at this by the time they launch!
I know I don’t have to tell you this, but walk each moment through with as much joy and calm as you can muster.
Only by the grace of God, friend, have I done it with some measure of dignity.
blessings and peace to you in your Sunday rest`elaine
Beautiful beautiful pictures. I loved the brownstones. I have never been to Franklin Tennessee. I have an old friend who is a professor at Belmont Univ. I believe. We were neighbors in Atlanta in the 80’s.
Thanks for sharing.
Leah
Wow! What a great time you must have had in Franklin…never been there but it looks like it would be a great place to visit.
Glad you had such a good time with your family!
~Beth
Lora,
Love your trip pictures and trip blog!
Joy
Precious Sister,
I feel like I’ve been gone for a while and missing you and your warmth. Whenever I visit I feel like I’m visiting a sweet extended family member who lives states away.
Your photos are wonderful. Your family is precious and all of the times you share are so important. I pray that you continue to share beautiful times together.
Much love and peace to you dear one.
Philemon 7 “Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother (sister), have refreshed the hearts of the saints.”
Love you.
As usual your photos are beautiful. I’m glad that you had a wonderful visit with your brother and his family.
Where does the time go? My sweet daughter is graduating from college in two weeks and then two weeks after that my sweet son graduates from high school and will leave for college. This is what we as parents have prepared them for. But it is a bittersweet time.
I love the variety of pictures in your post. Looks like everyone had fun. B
Tennessee is definitely green compared to the Canadian Prairies. Again, your pictures are beautiful.
I live in Saskatoon, a few years ago attended the Church Henry Blackaby pastored in the 70’s/80’s. The lead pastor of my church today is good friends with Richard Blackaby. It is crazy how we live thousands of miles apart yet can still be connected through people.