NASHVILLE FAVORITES
MEN’S GROOMING
	When it comes to getting a haircut guys usually have a couple of choices. The grizzled ex-marine running a barber shop that smells like Old Spice…or a women’s beauty parlor that does men’s hair on the side. But with Roosters Men’s Grooming Center in Cool Springs guys have a place that has a touch of man cave with a lot of class! What’s missing is the rushed pace of the typical chain barber shop that wants to move you out of the seat before you even sit back. What you get is a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere, with big screen tvs, hot shaves, a cold drink, a shampoo massage and attention to detail, like not having hair fall down your neck and into your shirt. The bottom line is that the way it ought to be is the way it IS at Roosters. I particularly like the fact that Roosters gives a price break to the military, fire, police and EMS personnel. Like I said, they do it the way it SHOULD BE. (WEBSITE) (BRENTWOOD STORE)
BOOTS
	When I was a kid I really wanted to be a cowboy. I wore my boots and my cowboy hat all the time. I even told perfect strangers that my real name was Roy Rogers – but that my parents insisted I go by Steve! My parents won out on the name thing, but I still love to wear cowboy boots…and my favorite place to get them is at Nashville Boot Company, located online at www.NashvilleBoots.com or their retail store in Belle Meade Galleria. They have all my favorite brands like Dan Post, Lucchese, Tony Lama and more. And they keep their focus on the basic boots, not a lot of fancy western wear or really wild colorful crazy stuff. If they don’t have exactly what you are looking for in your size, they will get it for you. When it’s time to “cowboy up” there’s only one place to go: Nashville Boot Company! ‘Cause there’s nothing like a good pair of boots! (WEBSITE) (MAP)
HUNTING AND FISHING GEAR SPECIALISTS
	I don’t think there is anybody who doesn’t fondly recall the first time their father or grandfather took them fishing or hunting. The best place I know to rekindle those memories, or create some for your own kids or grandkids, is Game Fair, Ltd. They specialize in fine firearms (including Belgian Brownings and exquisite British engraved shotguns), fly fishing equipment, outdoor clothing with brands like Orvis and Barbour), and an amazing assortment of collectibles and art. It’s like going to a museum – except you can buy your favorite things and take them home with you! John and his wife Annette make you feel at home in what seems like the ultimate “man cave,” and they are happy to offer you a cup of coffee while you browse or sit in a deep, comfortable chair and peruse their hunting and fishing books. Don’t be intimidated if you are a novice — they are happy to help you pick out your first set of gear or just your latest set of gear. Be sure to ask about the guided trips and training sessions! Game Fair, Ltd. Is a little piece of outdoors heaven…in the heart of Belle Meade. (WEBSITE) (MAP)
SWEET TREATS
	Hey, who doesn’t love pie? And nobody does it better than Papa C! My personal favorites are the apple (best when heated and topped with a little…ok, a LOT of vanilla ice cream), chess(my FAVORITE pie), chocolate (deep dark Ghiradelli® chocolate that is almost like fudge in a flaky crust – you can even add pecans!), pecan (it’s a southern thing but it doesn’t take long to catch on to why we love pecan pie so much in the south), pumpkin (best when lathered in whipped cream) and more, but I’m getting hungry and each one I think about just makes it worse! Oh, and they also have a fantastic peanut brittle. You can order online, or look for Chad and the Papa C crew at Farmer’s Markets and Festivals in the Nashville area! (615-414-3435) (WEBSITE) (MAP)
	Fox’s Donut Den has been serving up the greatest pastries you can sink your teeth into for more than 30 years. Located in the heart of Green Hills (next door to Hillsboro High School on Hillsboro Road), this Nashville landmark is a tradition for families, businesspeople looking for a place to meet, and college students cramming for tests. The coffee is fresh and hot and delicious; and the donuts are the best in town — but don’t overlook the other pastries and taste treats or they might get jealous! (615-385-1021) (WEBSITE) (MAP)
SCUBA AND SKI
	I love to snow ski. I first learned as a kid in places like Alaska and Colorado and then rediscovered the mountains about 12 years ago — it’s been “deep and steep” for me ever since! The best place in the entire Southeast for ski gear (snowboards, skis, boots, helmets, goggles, and more) is Neptune! And since looking good is AT LEAST half of the ski experience, they also have the best wardrobe selection anywhere for your time on the slopes — and in the lodge! I know, you’re thinking “isn’t Neptune a DIVE shop”. Yes, it’s that too! So whether you like your water wet or frozen, Neptune Diving and Ski can take care of you — year round! (WEBSITE) (MAP)