Alcoa/Knoxville TN

This visit I stayed in a nice Homewood Suites at Turkey Creek.  Lots of chains and not the quaintness of downtown Knoxville where I was told to try Nama this time.  I stayed on the side by the expressway and it was very noisy with traffic.  If I do this again, I will ask for the other side.  I ate breakfast at Mimi's to get a break from hotel food and it was really good.  Florentine quiche and a yummy muffin.  Great service.  Ate at Connors Steakhouse and seafood-again, great service and delicious bass.  I still may stay downtown next year as the walk to the "square" is good and the restaurants keep appearing.  I might also stay at airport Hilton but rent a car so I am not captive.  We'll see.

Flying into Knoxville makes it very easy as the schools are right by airport.  I have stayed at Hilton as you can walk thru breezeway and the car will take you to schools.  I have also rented a car and stayed at Marriott which is fine too.  When I return in February, I may hunker down at the Hilton and not rent a car.  I am using it tonight to go out to eat.  Am going to Connors Steak House.  Stay tuned for a review.
Teachers really pushing back here and my patience was short.  Trying to keep a smile.  Developing a FAC and she is great, but no one seems to have much energy. There was one highlight, Ms. Tate, so she may be our saving grace!!!
Lots of restaurants in Knoxville downtown and I have stayed there at Hilton and a little boutique hotel.  Don't like driving so far in am.  I haven't found a perfect restaurant yet.  My plane was delayed for about 6 hours last night.  Am wondering if I should drive next time......