Wednesday, November 11, 2026 — Edgar Evins State Park, Center Hill Lake → DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards, Baxter, Tennessee

Another wonderful day. I woke up at Edgar Evins State Park with a view of Center Hill Lake right from the window of my bed. Really, what more could I ask for?

Somehow the morning disappeared. I had a lesson with David at ten and thought I would have plenty of time to prepare. In the end, I spent the last five minutes rehearsing La Serenata. Where does the time go?

Afterward, I took the bicycle out and combined a ride through the park with a walk along the Highland Rim Nature Trail. A biathlon, I guess. Beautiful nature, and then back home. Back to my van. Home, I guess. A wonderful outdoor shower, a bagel with tomato and mayo, and I was ready to set sail for Baxter.

I arrived at DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards around two, and one of the managers greeted me with, “We were waiting for you.” Such a simple thing to say, but it felt so good to hear.

The ballroom was huge, and unfortunately there weren’t many people. Two tables. But they were generous with their tips, and I played for two and a half hours. It was nice to chat with the winemaker and learn about the family who owns the winery. They’re from Sicily. They had just arrived from Florida that day but didn’t come to the property. Too bad. I would have loved to meet them.

I also had a lovely conversation with Anna. Sometimes it just feels good to be there for a friend, to listen and offer a little support.

By seven I was back in the van, getting ready for the night. In bed by seven-thirty, asleep by nine, and—with a couple of interruptions—I slept until seven the next morning. It felt so good.

A great day overall.