Summer has come to mean Tennessee for me.  Nearly every summer since high school graduation has brought a trip to Nashville.  Days like today, where the sun starts to pour through the windows like the country music pouring through my headphones, my heart starts to wish for those back roads and green hills.  Knowing that two of my very good friends are currently there, sipping coffee at Crema and filling up on sweet tea and pulled pork and fried corn just makes it that much worse. 

Every trip to Tennessee reminds me who I am, and seems to remind me where I am.  I come home from each visit so much more comfortable in my identity, more confident.  Something about their air puts me at ease with life and all its uncertainties, struggles, and blessings.  It's just a place I love.  And of course, it's home to two of the most special people in my life. 

It's as if every trip I'm spending quality time with three people I love:  Kimberly, Jason, and Tennessee.  My heart needs each of them.  And I'll be eagerly awaiting whenever I next get to visit.

PC: Adam Carpenter

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