Uncle Nearest Distillery – A Story Worth Sipping

When your tour guide grew up a stone’s throw from Jack Daniel’s and used to play catch in the fields that now house a world-class distillery, you know you’re in for something special.

Welcome to Uncle Nearest, the small-town distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee that’s capturing national attention and is well on its way to becoming a world-renowned destination for food, drink, and culture.

This place is doing everything right.

Uncle Nearest isn’t just another whiskey brand. It’s a legacy, brought back to life.

The story begins in the 1850s with Nathan “Nearest” Green, an enslaved man on a Tennessee farm who became the first known African American master distiller in the United States. He wasn’t just skilled, he was the teacher. He’s the one who taught a young Jack Daniel how to make whiskey using a charcoal filtering method that became known as the Lincoln County Process, now a defining trait of Tennessee whiskey.

“His name was almost forgotten. Today, it’s etched into history.”

But for over a century, Nearest Green’s contributions went unrecognized. That changed in 2016, when author and entrepreneur Fawn Weaver began a deep investigation into Green’s life. What she uncovered flipped the script on whiskey history, and in 2017, she founded Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey to ensure the name Nearest Green would never be forgotten again.

A Distillery Rooted in Purpose

In 2021, the Nearest Green Distillery marked Juneteenth with more than a celebration, it reopened after a yearlong pandemic pause with new expansions and a renewed mission. The Welcome Center got a major upgrade. The Family Tasting Room opened its doors. The Master Blender House joined the lineup.

Thousands came to witness the grand reopening. It wasn’t just about whiskey. It was about honor. History. Healing.

That commitment runs deep. Uncle Nearest launched the HBCU Old Fashioned Challenge, a nationwide effort that runs each year from Martin Luther King Jr. Day to Juneteenth. For every Uncle Nearest Old Fashioned sold in participating bars, and for every bottle purchased at retail, the brand donates $1 to a fund supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

The goal? Fund one full in-state tuition scholarship at every accredited HBCU in the country. That’s not marketing. That’s mission.

The Woman Behind the Movement

So why this kind of passion? Why this kind of drive?

Two words: Fawn Weaver.

She’s not just the founder of Uncle Nearest. She’s the soul of it.

A bestselling author and businesswoman, Weaver took what could have been a footnote in whiskey history and turned it into a global movement. She didn’t just launch a brand, she built a legacy. Through the Nearest Green Foundation, she also provides scholarships and direct support to Green’s descendants.

Thanks to her vision, the story of American whiskey now includes the Black pioneers who built it. And Uncle Nearest is leading the way.

The Distillery: More Than a Place, a Tribute

The Nearest Green Distillery sits on over 400 acres in Shelbyville. It’s the first distillery in America named after a Black master distiller, and every inch of it reflects that honor.

There’s a museum. A bottling house. Beautiful tasting rooms and event spaces. And the attention to detail is clear: this isn’t just a site for whiskey production. It’s a place of pilgrimage for anyone who cares about heritage, craftsmanship, or the untold stories that shape what we sip.

Since its launch, Uncle Nearest has picked up more than 600 awards and honors, including multiple Best American Whiskey titles. But the most impressive thing isn’t on the shelf, it’s in the atmosphere. The people here believe in what they’re building.

What It’s Like to Visit

Some distillery tours leave you with tasting notes. Uncle Nearest leaves you with something deeper.

About an hour outside of Nashville, the distillery is more than a scenic detour, it’s a destination. Built to honor Nathan “Nearest” Green, the experience blends world-class spirits with overdue celebration.

From the gleaming copper stills to the 1884 blend we sampled in the welcome center, everything felt intentional. You’re not just sipping whiskey, you’re stepping into a story.

• The storytelling was sincere and well-paced
• The tasting felt generous and personal
• The shop had rare bottles and merch worth browsing
• The staff radiated pride in the mission

If you’ve got a car and a few hours, make the drive. Grab the single barrel if it’s available. Say yes to the tasting. You’ll leave with more than just a bottle, you’ll leave with perspective.

Pro tip: Make a reservation, especially on weekends. This is an ideal midday stop on a longer Tennessee road trip.

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A Travel n Taste Journal Series

When you’re planning a big vacation—especially one like Disney World—it’s easy to get caught up in the ride bookings, park strategies, and countdown clocks. But sometimes, the best move you can make… is doing nothing at all.

Today, we took a break from the hustle. No reservations. No scheduling. Just a pause to breathe, pack, and prep in peace before we hit the road tomorrow. And honestly? It was one of the smartest decisions we made during this entire process.

1. No Last-Minute Panic

We didn’t want to start our trip feeling rushed or frazzled. By carving out this day before departure, we gave ourselves a buffer to handle the final details calmly. No scrambling. No forgetting chargers or MagicBands. Just slow, intentional prep time.

2. Final Packing Touches

We used today to finish packing (for real this time). Here’s what we double-checked:

• Chargers, cords, and backup batteries
• Cooling fans and ponchos
• Snacks and water bottles for the road
• Matching park shirts and themed outfits
• Labeled bags for park days vs. travel days

Having this time let us really organize everything—and stage luggage in a way that made departure prep easier.

3. Mentally Shifting Into Vacation Mode

Letting go of the stress and just enjoying the moment is harder than it sounds. But this rest day gave us the space to do exactly that. No checklists. No to-dos. Just excitement for what’s coming next.

Final Thoughts

If you’re heading to Disney—or anywhere big—consider giving yourself one day with no pressure. Let your brain catch up. Let the trip begin with intention. That “day off” might just be the thing that makes the rest of your trip feel like a vacation.

We’re officially packed, prepped, and ready to hit the road. Tomorrow, the adventure begins.

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A Travel n Taste Journal Series

We thought we were ready. We had mapped out every ride. Prioritized every reservation. Checked wait times, walking times, and had a strategy locked and loaded for Lightning Lane and Multi Pass bookings. But Disney booking day had other plans.

The 7:00 AM Booking Window… Or Was It?

Our official booking window was set to open at 7:00 AM. But by 5:30 AM, ride times were already vanishing—and fast. It was like a digital land grab before we even had a chance to hit “Book.”

All the ideal ride times we had planned for were gone before the system even opened for us. That detailed plan? Out the window.

Calling an Audible: Swapping Our Park Days

With less than 30 minutes until our booking window, we made the call: Swap Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom park days. It wasn’t part of the plan, but it gave us better ride availability—and a chance to salvage the trip layout.

The Dining Reservation Domino Effect

Of course, we had already booked dining reservations based on the original schedule. Swapping parks meant we’d now be in the wrong place on the wrong day for those meals. It was a hit—but we weren’t ready to give up.

We decided to rework our dining later using MouseWatcher alerts to try and rebuild around our new plan.

Booking Errors, App Glitches, and Refunds

As if that wasn’t enough chaos, we ran into multiple booking errors in the Disney app. We’d get to the last page, submit payment, and boom—error message.

Thankfully, the charges were refunded just as fast as they were taken, but the glitches added a whole layer of stress to an already tight timeline.

Ride Booking Success (Eventually)

We got Hollywood Studios booked first, and then pivoted into Magic Kingdom. It took about 30–45 minutes overall, but we finally had a working plan that included our top rides and a workable daily flow.

We were even able to move experiences like building droids and lightsabers without losing our time slots. Small wins go a long way.

The Cinderella Curveball

Our biggest challenge? Cinderella’s Royal Table. It was one of the hardest dining reservations to get—and we had built our original itinerary around it.

Now it was stuck on the wrong day. Our current plan is to add a Park Hopper and head over to Magic Kingdom that evening just for the reservation. Not ideal, but we’ll make it work.

We also set a new MouseWatcher alert just in case we can snag a new time slot before the day arrives.

Final Thoughts: Be Ready to Pivot

Booking day was far from smooth. But even with early morning chaos, tech issues, and last-minute swaps, we ended up with a solid itinerary—and a flexible attitude to match.

Takeaway: No matter how perfect your plan is, be ready to adjust. Focus on what matters most to you, and use the tools available to make it work.

Ride plan = secured.
Dining = a work in progress.

Sanity = mostly intact.

all in all, not a bad day.

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A Travel n Taste Journal Series

When it comes to Disney World, the most magical moments often come down to great planning. And one of the biggest game-changers? Knowing how to book your rides ahead of time using Disney’s latest systems: Lightning Lane and Multi Pass.

We haven’t stepped foot in the parks yet—but our ride game plan is already in full swing. Here’s how we’re approaching our bookings to maximize fun and minimize wait times.

Let’s Break It Down: Rope Drop, Lightning Lane, and Multi Pass

What Is Rope Drop?

Rope Drop is Disney-speak for arriving before the park opens and being among the first guests to enter. Think of it as the golden hour for top rides with minimal lines. If you’re staying on-property, you often get early entry—meaning even more of a head start.

Why it matters: Rope dropping the right ride can save you 45+ minutes in line, especially for big attractions.

What Is Lightning Lane?

Lightning Lane is Disney’s pay-to-skip-the-line system. For certain high-demand rides (like TRON or Rise of the Resistance), you can pay individually to reserve a ride time. This lets you bypass the standby line completely.

Key tip: These sell out fast. Booking them right when they open is crucial—often at 7:00 AM for resort guests.

What Is Multi Pass?

Multi Pass replaces the old Genie+ system. It allows you to pre-select up to three rides in a park before the day begins. After you’ve used those three, you can keep booking one at a time throughout the day.

Think of it as a fast-pass bundle—and yes, it costs extra, but for many guests, it’s worth it to skip lines and keep the day flowing smoothly.

How We’re Planning Our Ride Days

With all the tools in play, our goal is to combine efficiency with fun. We’re looking at ride lengths, average wait times, walking distances between attractions, and meal breaks. Here’s how we’re approaching each park:

Magic Kingdom

• Rope Drop: Hit two big rides before 9:00 AM
• Multi Pass: Peter Pan’s Flight, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
• Lightning Lane: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, TRON Lightcycle / Run
• Tip: Midday break back at the hotel before fireworks and a late dinner reservation

EPCOT + Animal Kingdom

• Morning at EPCOT: Rope Drop Frozen Ever After
• Dining: Akershus Banquet + Space 220 experience
• Afternoon: Park-hop to Animal Kingdom
• Lightning Lane: Avatar Flight of Passage
• Optional: Tree of Life Awakenings nighttime show

Hollywood Studios

• Rope Drop: Smugglers Run
• Multi Pass: Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers, Frozen Sing-Along
• Lightning Lane: Rise of the Resistance
• Extras: Savi’s Lightsaber Workshop + reserved seating for Fantasmic!

Booking Tips We’re Following

• Book Lightning Lanes and Multi Pass selections as soon as they open
• Start with your must-do rides—not just the newest ones
• Balance high-energy rides with longer attractions or meal breaks
• Factor in walking time between rides—don’t overpack your schedule

We’re finalizing our bookings tomorrow and feeling confident that this plan gives us the best chance to experience everything we want—without spending half the day in line.

Got your own Disney ride strategy? Drop your best tips or questions in the comments!

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A Travel n Taste Journal Series

Planning a Disney World trip can be overwhelming—but with the right tools (and the right planner), it’s actually pretty exciting. As we prepare for our upcoming adventure, we’re pulling back the curtain on how we’re planning it all—from where we’re staying to how we’re booking top rides and dining reservations with ease.

Our Split Stay: Off-Property + On-Property Magic

We’re starting at Marriott Grand Vista Villas, a spacious, off-property resort perfect for relaxing after the road trip. Later in the week, we’ll move to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort in a Cars Suite for that full Disney immersion experience.

Why we love this approach: Budget flexibility, more room early in the week, and Disney perks when it counts most.

Our Disney Planner: The Real MVP

We’re working with an amazing Disney planner who’s taken a huge load off our plate. She’s helping us book:

• Resorts (both off- and on-property)
• Dining reservations
• Lightning Lane and Multi Pass strategy
• Special experiences like Space 220 and Savi’s Workshop

Here’s the planner we’re using: Click here to check her out. And yes—her services are free to you (Disney pays her, not you!).

Other Great Disney Planners to Explore:

• WDW Prep School – Planning guides, podcast, and in-depth park strategies
• Mouse Hacking – Budget hacks and trip walkthroughs
• The Bucket List Family – Known for epic Disney adventures and content

There are a lot of amazing planners out there, but we definitely recommend finding one that matches your travel style.

MouseWatcher: The Key to Dining Reservations

We’re using MouseWatcher to grab the most popular dining spots at Disney. So far, we’ve set up alerts for:

• Cinderella’s Royal Table
• Topolino’s Terrace
• Space 220

MouseWatcher monitors availability 24/7 and notifies us the moment a table opens. Then we book it directly through Disney—no stress, no guesswork.

Multi Pass + Lightning Lane Strategy

We’re planning out each park day using Disney’s Multi Pass (pre-booked rides) and Lightning Lane (paid front-of-line access for high-demand rides like TRON and Rise of the Resistance).

With help from our planner, we’re lining up key rides early and building in breathing room—because no one wants to run through the parks all day.

What We’re Packing

Here’s a look at our current packing checklist:

• Cooling fans
• Portable power banks
• Lightweight ponchos
• Collapsible water bottles
• Reusable straws
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen
• Rain jackets or compact umbrellas
• Tiara-making kit (for themed days)
• Park day backpack or sling bag
• Snacks for lines and breaks
• Refillable water bottles
• First-aid kit (band-aids, Tylenol, blister treatment)
• Ziploc bags for electronics or wet items
• Extra phone charger cords
• Hand sanitizer & wipes
• Sunglasses

Budget Tips We’re Using

• Starting with an off-property stay to save on lodging
• Tracking spending with Disney gift cards
• Letting our planner help us avoid missed opportunities
• Booking early to secure the best options

What’s in Our Planning Toolkit

• Disney Planner: Meet ours here
• MouseWatcher: Set alerts and secure top dining
• Packing List: See above for our full list
• Ride Strategy: Lightning Lane + Multi Pass = less waiting, more magic

We’re still in prep mode—but feeling ready, excited, and confident that this trip will be unforgettable.

The post From Planning to Pixie Dust – How We’re Getting Ready for Our Disney World Adventure appeared first on Welcome.

Rascal Flatts at Mohegan Sun: A Night of Country Magic

Some concerts are just concerts, but others are an experience—something electric, something unforgettable. That was exactly the case at Mohegan Sun as thousands of country fans gathered for a night with Rascal Flatts.

The Energy Builds: Lauren Alaina Kicks Things Off

The lights dropped, and the crowd roared with anticipation. The first chords of Big & Rich’s “Comin’ to Your City” blared through the speakers, setting the tone for a high-energy night. When the stage lights came on, it wasn’t Rascal Flatts just yet—it was Lauren Alaina, delivering an unforgettable opening act.

Her set was already shaping up to be a showstopper, but the fact that she was 7.5 months pregnant made it nothing short of spectacular. Her vocals soared, her presence was electric, and that baby? Well, it’s safe to say it’ll be born with perfect rhythm.

Chris Lane Brings the Party

Next up was Chris Lane, bringing his signature blend of smooth country vocals and infectious energy. His set was full of feel-good vibes, and the crowd was loving every second.

Then, he took things to another level. As he launched into “Dancing in the Moonlight”, he ran off the stage and into the crowd, sending the entire arena into a frenzy. The energy was off the charts, and fans couldn’t get enough.

And just when it seemed like the night couldn’t get any better, Lane surprised everyone by pulling his twin brother off the drums for an impromptu performance of “Let Me Love You”. The crowd erupted, singing along as his brother absolutely nailed it. It was one of those magical, unplanned moments that make live music so special.

Rascal Flatts Takes the Stage: A Whole New Level of Excitement

After two phenomenal opening acts, the energy in the arena was already sky-high. But the moment everyone had been waiting for had finally arrived. As the stage went dark once more, the first notes of “Here’s to You” rang out—and the crowd exploded.

Rascal Flatts had arrived.

From the first note, it was clear: this wasn’t just another concert. This was a celebration of 25 years of music, memories, and the special bond between the band and their fans.

25 Years of Rascal Flatts—And We’re Still Here

As they rolled through hit after hit, the crowd wasn’t just listening—they were singing every word. It was as if the entire arena was saying:

“We’ve been here for 25 years with you, and we’re still here—celebrating Rascal Flatts, celebrating the memories, and celebrating the music that’s been the soundtrack to our lives.”

It was more than a concert; it was a moment of shared nostalgia, joy, and gratitude. The connection between the band and their fans was unbreakable.

A Playful Journey Before a Powerful Ballad

Then, the piano took center stage. The band had a little fun, teasing the audience with a playful journey through some all-time classics. The opening notes of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” sent a wave of excitement through the crowd, followed by an impromptu, full-throttle singalong to “Sweet Caroline.”

The arena erupted—hands in the air, voices raised, the entire crowd moving as one.

And then, just as the energy reached its peak, they brought it all back down with “Bless the Broken Road.”

The emotion in the room was palpable—every lyric carrying weight, every note filled with meaning. Whether it was a song of love, loss, or fate, it meant something to everyone there.

An Encore Worth Waiting For

As the band left the stage, the crowd stood in disbelief—this couldn’t be the end. The energy in the air was too electric, the moment too powerful.

Then, after what felt like forever, the lights flashed back on and Rascal Flatts returned to the stage, ready to close out the night in spectacular fashion.

The opening beats of “Summer Nights” had the entire arena on their feet, dancing, clapping, and soaking in every last second of the show.

And then, the grand finale: “Life Is a Highway.”

But this wasn’t just Rascal Flatts—it was a full-circle moment as Lauren Alaina and Chris Lane joined them on stage, turning the final song into a massive, unforgettable collaboration.

The arena was electric, the crowd screaming every lyric as confetti rained down and the music pulsed through the venue one last time. It was the perfect ending to a truly perfect night—a celebration of music, memories, and 25 years of Rascal Flatts.

As the final note rang out and the band took their final bows, one thing was clear—this wasn’t just a concert.

This was a night we’ll never forget.

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Mohegan Sun: A Complete Experience Beyond the Casino

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Hidden Gems in Virginia: 7 Underrated Spots for Your Next Adventure

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Last night, the R&B Vibe Tour transformed EagleBank Arena in Fairfax, VA into a soulful sanctuary of smooth melodies, deep emotions, and pure nostalgia. With Valentine’s Day in full effect, this show was a perfect celebration of love, connection, and timeless R&B.

If you missed it, don’t worry—we’ve got a full recap of the performances, the energy, and the most unforgettable moments from the night!

The Lineup: A Night of Pure R&B Vibes

The night opened with an incredible performance by a talented female vocalist who immediately set the tone for the evening. Her powerful voice and engaging stage presence drew the audience in from the very first note.

Lyfe Jennings followed, bringing his raw, emotional storytelling to the stage. His raspy, soulful voice cut through the arena, pulling everyone into his world with powerful lyrics and deep emotions.

Next, Marsha Ambrosius delivered an absolutely stunning vocal performance. Her silky, effortless voice filled the arena with magic, leaving the audience completely mesmerized. Every note was perfection, reminding everyone why she’s one of the best vocalists in the game.

The Ton3s (formerly known as The Hamiltones) then took the spotlight, delivering a powerhouse performance that blew the crowd away. Known for their impeccable harmonies and smooth vocals, the trio brought a fresh energy to the stage. But their night didn’t end there—The Ton3s also served as Anthony Hamilton’s background singers, proving their versatility and undeniable talent.

And then, Anthony Hamilton took the stage—and the electricity was everywhere. The moment he stepped into the spotlight, the energy in the arena shifted into overdrive. His deep, soulful voice commanded attention, effortlessly weaving through a masterful set of R&B classics. But he didn’t just sing—he connected with the audience, engaging the crowd, feeding off their energy, and making everyone feel like they were a part of something truly special.

His set was the perfect balance of smooth ballads, high-energy jams, and heartfelt moments, proving once again why he remains one of the most beloved voices in R&B. The crowd was singing, swaying, and fully immersed in every note, riding the wave of soul that Anthony Hamilton brought to Fairfax.

The Atmosphere: A Valentine’s Day to Remember

Whether you were cuddled up with your partner, singing your heart out solo, or vibing with friends, the energy in the arena was pure love and nostalgia.

Every song turned into a mass sing-along, with fans belting out lyrics from deep in their souls.

The artists fed off the energy, making every performance even more unforgettable.

From slow jams that had couples swaying to upbeat anthems that had the whole crowd dancing, the concert was a perfect blend of romance, nostalgia, and soul.

And in between sets, a hilarious comedian kept the crowd entertained with sharp jokes and relatable humor. His Baltimore roots came through in his delivery, and the audience ate it up, laughing along as the stage was reset for the next act.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss This Tour!

The R&B Vibe Tour was everything we hoped for—and more. If it’s coming to a city near you, get your tickets NOW. This lineup of legendary artists, timeless hits, and pure R&B magic is an experience you do not want to miss.

Were you at the show in Fairfax? Drop a comment and let us know your favorite moment of the night!

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R&B is more than music—it’s a vibe, a feeling, and a timeless journey. And the R&B Vibe Tour delivered exactly that.

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Hitting the Road: A Northern Virginia to Connecticut Road Trip

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