Girlfriend’s Getaway by Samantha Bradley

This extended weekend getaway was all about relaxation, pampering, carefree sightseeing, shopping, and indulging. What more could a workaholic female want? A girlfriend to share it with - that’s what!

These four girls did just that. From left to right are: Kelley Ramey (photographer), Tricia Albers-Hurt, Rebecca Embry, and Samantha Poe Bradley, writer See article about their adventures and more photos

There is no better way to celebrate the holidays than gathering your family for Christmas at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville.

ICE! returns this holiday season beginning Nov. 11. Step into a wonderland carved by expert artisans out of two million pounds of colorful ice. You’ll see the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in larger-than-life sculptures and even plunge down slides made entirely of ice in this Gaylord Hotels original experience. It’s a holiday spectacle you won’t want to miss! The average time taken to walk through this experience is 20-40 minutes. However, there is no time limit. Expect and dress for the cold as the rooms will be kept at 9 degrees for the ice. Signature blue parkas will be provided to help keep warm. Other holiday activities and attractions at Gaylord will be visits and photos with Santa, ice bumper cars, a snowball build and blast, ice tubing, and ice skating. Stay for an extended weekend and enjoy the fountain shows, celebration On Ice Live Skating Show, and the famou Oak Ridge Boys “Chritmas in Tennessee” dinner show.

The kids will be sure to enjoy the gingerbread decorating corner and build-a-bear workshop provided.

For tickets or more information, visit online at https://christmasatgaylordopryland.marriott.com/