Portland Oregon & Sloe Gin Fizz

I've actually never been to Portland, Oregon. Nor do I drink sloe gin fizz. But Julie and I did go to Loretta Lynn's Ranch on Saturday to see her play. Talk about cool. I mean, waaaaaay cool.

Located in Huricane Mills, Tennessee, the whole place screamed country. It was all very family-oriented, with RV's, trail rides, museums, Loretta's "This Old House" and her smaller, more modest house that she currently resides in. The Lynn family works all through the ranch and everyone was just as nice as could be. We had great weather, too, perfectly sunny as we explored the grounds. There's nothin' like a good dose of southern comfort for the bones. It made me miss Tennessee desperately and I haven't even left yet. Anyone wanna go horseback riding out there this summer?

The show itself was awesome. Every once in a while she'd have a family member get up and sing a ditty or two. A very funny woman, she had us laughing most of the time. She was worn out from touring all week but sang like there was no tomorrow. Her twin daughters, The Lynns (named after Patsy Cline and Peggy Lee), were the opening act and we were lucky enough to sneak a picture in with them right before they went on stage. One day I'll post it.

If you haven't checked out Loretta's latest release, Van Lear Rose, you are truly missing out on one of country's greatest records of all time. Her most critically acclaimed record to date, it hit the stores over a year ago and is still selling strong. Collaborated on with Jack White (I was hoping he'd show up and I'd get a date, I mean, a picture with him) of The White Stripes, it's the perfect blend of new and old, traditional yet somehow forbidden. She still has a few more dates this summer, two at the ranch and one at the Opry. I highly recommend checking her out...and I would vote the ranch dates. It was just so personal and familiar. An additional bonus, you get to eat dinner at Loretta Lynn's Kitchen. Mmmmm...getcha some o' that southern cookin'!!