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Although you should always abide by the manufacturer's guidelines when it comes to servicing your Ford, it's equally important to be vigilant for any signs that your vehicle needs an extra trip to the service center. The following indicators merit an immediate visit to a Ford-certified auto technician. Engine Warning Light Dashboard indicators are helpful for drawing attention to an underlying problem, particularly when there's something wrong with the engine or other components. Unfortunately, modern check engine lights aren't always straightforward for the driver to decipher. The best way to determine why a warning light comes on is to bring your Ford to the service center for a proper diagnostic. Don't ignore your engine light if it only flickers or comes on in certain conditions. Warning lights can illuminate inconsistently depending on the problem. For example, the light may flash when the vehicle accelerates, which could indicate a failure in the car's emission control system. Other common reasons a check engine light might come on include a loose gas cap, a bad oxygen sensor, faulty spark plugs, and a bad mass airflow sensor. more Noisy or Soft Brakes Have your brakes been feeling off lately? Are they making more noise than usual? Brakes should bring your Ford to a stop quietly and effectively without you having to force the pedal to the floor. In some cases, faulty brakes can create noticeable vibrations when stopping. Regardless, you should have soft or noisy brakes inspected as soon as possible. Your Ford technician can replace your brake fluid, rotors, or brake pads in no time, ensuring you're always safe on the roads. Rough Shifts Automatic transmissions are convenient and efficient. They take the guesswork out of shifting gears and provide a smooth, reliable drive — until they don't. Like any vehicle component, your automatic transmission is susceptible to developing issues. When there's a problem, you might notice rough or abrupt shifting when you accelerate or decelerate. Your Ford might even have trouble shifting into a higher gear. Fixing transmission problems can be costly, especially when you've let the problem go on for too long. At the first sign of rough shifting, ensure your transmission gets the attention it needs. And don't forget to bring your Ford in for periodic maintenance on the transmission filters, screens, and fluid, which can help avoid expensive repairs down the road. Poor Gas Mileage Have you been making more trips to the gas station despite driving the same distance? When a vehicle develops an underlying issue, the fuel mileage can be one of the first things affected. You may not notice at first, but your Ford might start to get fewer miles out of each gallon of gas, causing you to make more stops at the pump. Poor gas mileage can indicate a sticking brake pad, improper tire pressure, or other common issues that require tuneups. At the first sign of trouble, ensure your Ford gets the attention it deserves. Schedule a service appointment at Brown Lee Ford today. Image via pexels.com

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Are you trying to give yourself a reason to buy a new truck? Whether you're looking for one because your current truck just isn't doing the job anymore or if you need something with better options, you should check this one out. This truck was built for more than just tough performance. Here are five reasons to drive the 2020 Ford F-150. 1. Powerful Engine Under the hood of the 2020 Ford F-150, you'll find tremendous power thanks to the six different engine options. The 3.3-liter TI-VCT V-6 engine delivers 290 horsepower. With the 5.0-liter V-8 and 10-speed automatic transmission, you'll find the available best-in-class payload. The 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine will get you up to 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. With a best-in-class 450-horsepower rating, the High-Output 3.5-liter EcoBoost is standard on the Limited and Raptor trims. The regular 3.5-liter EcoBoost will still deliver with 375 horsepower. There is also a diesel-engine available, the 3.0-liter Power Stroke Turbo Diesel. more 2. Work, and Play, Ready Performance In order to help you get ready for work, or play, there is a great setup of performance features inside the F-150. The 2.5-liter EcoBoost can be paired with the max towing options for a rating of 13,200-pounds making it easier to haul a trailer, camper, or boat. The Raptor comes with features such as FOX live monotube shocks, Torque-on-Demand transfer case, and an electron-locking rear differential to help you handle any terrain with ease. On the LARIAT, King Ranch, Platinum, Limited, and Raptor you'll enjoy automatic four-wheel-drive mode so you can drive confidently in any weather. 3. Ford Co-Pilot360 The great safety technology system Ford Co-Pilot360 comes with features such as Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert and Trailer Coverage and the Lane-Keeping System. You'll also find Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and a Rear View Camera. An available 360-degree camera with a split-view display gives you a birds-eye view of your truck to help you reverse or hook up your hitch with ease. 4. Comfortable, High-End Interior The engine isn't the only impressive feature of the F-150; the interior features great comforts such as cloth seats and all-weather floor mats in the base XL. The higher-end Platinum comes with features such as Ambient Lighting, heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Raptor shows off sporty features like front bucket seats with unique cloth and bolsters unique trim accents, and aluminum scuff plates. 5. Technology Features In addition to great comfort features, the inside of the F-150 comes with up-to-date technology features to keep you connected at all times. With the XLT, you will find a 4.2-inch productivity screen and FordPass Connect with WiFi Hotspot. The SYNC 3 system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows you to easily access your contacts, maps, and playlists with the voice-activated technology. If you think the 2020 Ford F-150 sounds like a good fit then reach out to us at Brown Lee Ford. A member of our sales team would love to answer your questions or get you set up for a test drive. Image via ford.com

Summer wouldn't be complete without a camping trip and Morrison, Tennessee, has a few great places where you can spend your nights under the stars. And although we all may be cooped up inside because of COVID-19, here are some camping ideas when everything goes back to the way it was. Sassy Springs Retreat Sassy Springs Retreat is an ideal getaway for those who want to camp, but who could do without the bugs or hard sleeping conditions on the ground? Things at Sassy Springs are cozy and luxurious. You can enjoy a camping trip in your personal yurt or enjoy some family time on your wooden deck. Many of the yurts also come with luxury beds, heat, air conditioning, and even an over-sized tub. This campsite is also in a good location, just a short walk to the Cumberland Caverns and the Collins. You can also spend time getting to know other campers in the community kitchen area or watch a movie together at the community center. more Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park offers both entertainment and education when camping. Hike among the Old Stone Fort, a prehistoric native building, and get to know the history and nature of the area. Campers here also enjoy fishing. The local lakes and streams are well-stocked with Largemouth Bass and Bream. You can also hike to the waterfalls, where you will definitely want to have your camera to capture this breathtaking view. This campground is a great location if you prefer to be secluded when camping. Each campsite is separated by a large, wooded area that offers plenty of shade and peace and quiet. You can pitch a tent or hook up your RV for an easy camping adventure. Machester KOA Visit the Manchester KOA if you want to camp among the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Hook up your RV or rent a cabin for the weekend, either way, you will be just a few minutes from the best outdoor recreation in Tennessee. The campground offers all your favorite camping amenities including cable TV, mini-golf, an on-site pool, and a Kamping Kitchen. Kids will enjoy the outdoor bowling lane and the mini spray park. The campsite also often hosts entertaining events like horse carriage rides. The Manchester KOA is also a great option for long-term camping. South Cumberland State Park South Cumberland State Park is one of the most popular destinations for outdoor recreation in all of Tennessee. The large park spans across four different counties and consists of over 30,000-acres of land to view. Bring your hiking boots as you will definitely want to check out the over 12-miles of trails that take you through the deep local nature. More advanced of hikers often work their way toward the impressive views at the Great Stone Door, a cliff that overlooks the park and gulf. Bring your tent or hook up your small trailer at the on-site campground, the Foster Falls Campground. Tennessee is full of outdoor beauty to enjoy. Whether your idea of camping includes a rustic tent out in the woods or an upscale, five-star experience, with all your favorite amenities, they have a little something for every camper. Image via pexels.com

The 2020 Ford Explorer has now been integrated with a new design to win the hearts of three-row SUV lovers. Ford's 2020 Explorer sets itself apart in the already crowded class. The vehicle is packed with advanced features and safety upgrades that pose great challenges that its greatest rivals can't beat. You'll also appreciate its superior powertrain and handling. However, its greatest advantage over its predecessor is the roomier interior to fit more people and luggage. Below is a rundown of the latest Ford Explorer features that make it a winning vehicle. Enjoyable Driving Experience The 2020 Ford Explorer made an astounding improvement after switching to a rear-wheel-drive architecture. This change not only allowed the creators to make a new design as compared to the competition, but it also makes it more fun to drive. You will enjoy its excellent handling of sudden maneuvers or winding roads, which is excellent for a three-row SUV. Its steering wheel weighs accurately and the brakes are responsive and smooth. more Proven Powertrain Ford chose to use the powerful powertrain common with its Ranger and Mustang vehicles for the latest Explorer. The turbocharged 2.3-L EcoBoost in-line-four-cylinder, 300-horsepower mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Other than the standard rear-wheel drive, the engine also has an optional four-wheel drive. A single step up, the platinum trim offers you a larger, beefier engine. It instantly translates into a turbocharged 3.0-L EcoBoost V-6, 365-hp, with the standard four-wheel drive. Top-Notch Driver Assistance and Safety The standard Co-Pilot360 available in all Ford trim levels is the safety suite you get with each new 2020 Ford Explorer. This means you will enjoy automatic forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warnings, among others. You can also opt for the Co-Pilot360 Assist Plus, available for higher trims to get lane-centering steering and adaptive cruise control. The limited models and all others above have a 30-degree camera system. Updated Infotainment System You will enjoy Ford's Sync 3 multimedia system available in each of the 2020 Explorers. You can interact with the system on the 8-inch touchscreen that rests atop the center of the dashboard. Its positioning allows the driver to use it effortlessly without being less-attentive on the road. The Platinum and ST models come with larger 10.1-inch touchscreens. Ample In-Cabin Space You will definitely appreciate the extra room offered within the latest Explorer. Whether you and your passengers want to sit comfortably or are simply looking to carry more stuff, this is the car to pick. In the second row, the captain's chairs have a large console in between that allows for exactly that. If you are looking for a modern car with great driving comfort and spacious room for both your passengers and luggage, look no further than Brown Lee Ford. Get in touch with us or visit our showroom today! Image via ford.com

When you have large commercial or passenger cargo needs, the 2020 Ford Transit it worth checking out. With two options available, the Ford Transit and the Transit Connect, it is useful to evaluate which features each one offers. Design Evaluating the design of each vehicle is one of the most important steps to take when choosing the right one for you. The Ford Transit passenger is designed for passenger use, with a sliding passenger door for easy entrance. The Ford Transit Connect is designed with a rear cargo door for easy loading. The passenger vehicle can also comfortably hold up to 10 passengers, which is ideal for transportation services. The Ford Transit only has seating for two passengers, but much more cargo space at 104.8-cubic feet. Both vehicles, however, can be customized to meet your individual business needs. more Power The Ford Transit passenger vehicle is powered with a 3.5-liter PFDI, six-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive, making it a good choice for businesses that transport passengers during inclement weather conditions. The Ford Transit Connect is powered with a 2.0-liter engine with either a six or eight-speed powertrain, but is only available in front-wheel drive. If towing is important to you, then you might consider the Ford Transit passenger vehicle. It has an impressive tow rating of 4,200 pounds, compared to the Ford Transit Connect with only 2,000 pounds. Convenience When you want a work vehicle that will offer your business the convenience that is needed, both the Ford Transit and Transit Connect are good options. With features like a power sliding door and configurable center consoles, drivers also find the Transit vans to be productive.  The Ford Transit Connect comes equipped with connective technologies that will also assist with your workday. The wireless charging station will keep you and your passengers connected on the drive. Use these technologies to also keep track of your work crew with Ford Telematics or Ford Data services. Your passengers will also enjoy their ride with the available panoramic fixed-glass vista roof. Safety Safety is important, whether you are transporting passengers or a lot of cargo. Fortunately, Ford values the safety of its drivers and has implemented upgrades safety features in both choices. You can expect safety features like ABS brakes and full air bags. Both are also equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot 360 technologies which include features like pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping system, forward collision warning, and post-collision braking. Both options also come with available parking assistance features. Parking is not always convenient with the Transit and Transit Connects larger size. But these features sue exterior cameras to safely guide you into your parking spot. With the available MyKey and FordPass Connect, you can have greater control over your entire collection of vehicles. Limit the top speed or radio volume to ensure that your entire crew is practicing safe driving. Ford understands the unique needs of its business customers. That's why they have designed the Ford Transit and Transit Connect to meet these performance needs. Come by Brown Lee Ford today to check out the 2020 Ford Transit and Transit Connect. Image via ford.com

You can't pass through Tennessee without stopping at a great hometown barbecue joint. The following are a few of the best barbecues near Morrison, Tennessee. Prater's BBQ Locals consider Prater's BBQ to be the best place for barbecue in the South. Whether you're looking to cater an event or are simply craving a half-rack of ribs, Prater's is the place to go. Every item on their menu is made from scratch, so you know you'll be enjoying high quality southern barbecue. Every year, Prater's joins other vendors at the Bonnaroo Music Festival in Manchester, Tennessee. Rolling Stone Magazine voted Prater's as the number one thing to do while at the festival, so you know the food must be good. From ribeye steaks to catfish and hand-battered fried chicken, you'll enjoy Prater's delicious and affordable menu. more Collins River BBQ & Cafe Collin's River BBQ & Cafe is located just 15 minutes from Morrison in the heart of McMinnville. Locals enjoy this sweet little cafe for its tasty food, craft beers, welcoming environment, and live music. Their menu offers classic pulled pork and smoked wings. A couple favorites include their baby back ribs that are double basted with barbecue sauce and local honey and the brisket wrap with black beans, onion, fresh greens, tomato, and cheese with your choice of dressing. The wrap is served on either a jalapeno cheddar wrap or a wheat wrap. High Roller Smokers BBQ & Catering High Roller Smokers BBQ & Catering isn't you're standard barbecue joint. Its business is primarily focused on catering- from weddings to birthday parties and work functions, they're happy to serve wherever they're needed. If you're looking for a quick bite, you can check out their High Roller Smokers Bar-B-Que Trailer that's parked at the local Plaza Shopping Center on Thursdays and Fridays. It's only open for lunch from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, so make you sure you catch them while they're there. Their menu includes pulled pork plates, pulled pork nachos, BBQ stuffed potatoes, organic grilled chicken salads, baby back ribs, beef brisket, and a pulled chicken sandwich. Piggy's Place Bar-B-Que Piggy's Place Bar-B-Que is a local favorite that has been family owned and operated since 1980. For more than 30 years, they've prided themselves in offering fantastic food and delicious desserts. You can dine-in, carry-out, or even opt for delivery when available. If you're looking for some great food that won't break the bank, you'll want to check out their daily specials menu. If you visit on a Saturday, you'll enjoy their Loaded BBQ Potato with a drink for under $6. Whiskey Trail BBQ & Steakhouse Just 30 minutes from Morrison, in Tullahoma, Tennessee, is Whiskey Trail BBQ & Steakhouse. Whiskey Trail combines the idea of a family steakhouse with the touch of southern barbecue. Their menu includes your usual steakhouse dishes as well as tender smoked meats like their hickory smoked pulled pork and slow-smoked pulled to order chicken. Whether you're a long-time fan of barbecue or new to the southern style, make sure you stop and check out at least one of these awesome joints around Morrison, Tennessee. Image via pixabay.com

Whether you're a Tennessee native or planning a visit to the Volunteer State, you can find a number of interesting and unusual places to visit. Some of the spots offer unique insights into the history of the state. The Minister's Treehouse The world's largest treehouse is located in the state of Tennessee, and it's worth seeing. The owner of the Minster's Tree House, Horace Burgess, believes that he was divinely inspired to construct it. It's incredibly massive, featuring 10 stories that are supported by six large oak trees. Since construction began, the treehouse has used more than 250,000 nails to support it and keep it up in the trees. The estimated building cost was around $12,000, according to the owner, and it took 14 years to complete. Visitors used to be able to tour it, but the local fire marshals closed down this option in 2012 due to the potential fire risk. more Elliston Place Soda Shop Elliston Place Soda Shop is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in its original location within the city of Nashville. It's extremely popular among both locals and visitors, offering a charming atmosphere and tasty menu options. It originally opened in 1939 as part of a drug store, although the drug store side closed in 1965. Elliston Place still serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with sweet soda fountain-style treats. Daily specials are available, with options like roast turkey and dressing, fried catfish, and chicken and dumplings. You can also enjoy sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, salads, soups, and other tasty choices. Hermitage Hotel Men's Bathroom For a unique experience, pay a visit to the Hermitage Hotel men's bathroom. The historic hotel is on 6th Avenue North in Nashville, and the bathroom has actually won awards for its design and elements. When the hotel opened in 1910, it showcased a wide range of period flourishes, including the art deco-inspired men's restroom that is just off the expansive lobby. Men and women are welcome to step inside, where they can view the gleaming black and lime green glass tiles, terrazzo flooring, and complementary lime green fixtures. When you walk into the lobby, turn right and head down the stairs to the restaurant. You'll see the award-winning restroom just off the hallway. Timothy Demonbreun's Cave One of the state's early residents was Timothy Demonbreun, a fur trapper who came from a line of French Canadian nobles. He left his titles behind, starting a simple life in Tennessee where he set up camp in a tiny cave along the Cumberland River. You can still see the cave today, although from a distance, it looks like little more than a crack in the rock. Demonbreun lived in the temporary shelter for several months as he pursued his dreams of becoming a fur trader. You can't go inside, as the entrance is blocked by a cage of steel bars and is protected by a national landmark. If you want to take a peek, head along the right side of the riverbank for about a mile from downtown Nashville Tennessee has several interesting landmarks and sights to explore. Enjoy learning more about the area and some of the early residents when tour these locations. Image via pexels.com

Are you in need of a relaxing getaway? Morrison, Tennessee is brimming with great spas that will give you the self-care you need. Here are a few of the best spas in the Morrison area. Sage Skincare and Wellness If you're looking for some self-care that will leave you feeling and looking radiant, inside and out, Sage Skincare and Wellness is the place for you. With their pure plant essence products, understanding of how the body works as a whole, and constant commitment to learning and improving, they have all the tools to give you the best service around. At Sage Skincare and Wellness, you'll enjoyed being pampered in a relaxing environment and leave feeling and looking beautiful and healthy. Their services include massage, microcurrent, guasha, dermaplaning, microneedling, microdermabrasion, and more. more Wink Skincare Studio Wink Skincare Studio is just 15 minutes from Morrison. It's one of McMinnville's favorite skincare studios making it the perfect place for a little self-love. Wink offers a variety of services that go well beyond a simple facial. They also carry popular product lines like Dave's Candles, Supergoop, Sara Happ, Lunette, Skinscript, and more. The Haven Day Spa The Haven Day Spa is a health and wellness spa that specializes in an array of services including full body massages, reflexology, and hypnotherapy. You can also spend some time doing yoga in their workout room or enjoying a sweet treat in their cafe. If you want a day away, but can't figure out what to do with the kids, no problem. The Haven Day Spa has a childcare room so that you can relax knowing your kids will be well taken care of. Serene Day Spa If you need an escape from the chaos of life, Serene Day Spa is the place to go. They offer personalized massage and skincare therapies that rejuvenate your mind and body. From a relaxing massage to rehab for injuries, Serene Day Spa has you covered. They have all of the standard services like their deep tissue massage. It's purpose is to release tension by relieving both your muscles and connective tissue. If you're looking for a more unique massage, you can try out their traditional Thai massage. This massage is an ancient method of rejuvenation that uses yoga-based stretching, deep compressions, and acupressure. Unlike most massages, it's performed fully clothed on a floor mat. Another spa service that they offer is their Body Glow massage. This treatment is designed to exfoliate and moisturize your skin while providing a relaxing massage. You can choose between a sugar or salt scrub that is then used to polish away dry skin cells and remove impurities from the skin. Next, warm steamed towels are applied to remove the scrub. Top it off with a moisturizing body butter and your skin will be feeling silky and smooth. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out with friends or a private escape from your everyday stress, these top spas around Morrison, Tennessee are sure to have you feeling refreshed and ready to take on another week. Image via pixabay.com

When you think about the safety systems and equipment in your car, you probably consider the rearview camera or the seatbelts as some of the most vital. However, one of the crucial systems that you can't drive without is the brake system, which allows you to slow down and stop. Caring for your car's brakes can ensure that this system is in good shape and able to protect you and others around you on the road. An Overview of the Brake System Every vehicle has a brake system that includes several key components, two of which are the brake pads and rotors. When you apply pressure to the brake pedal, the pads use friction to slow down and stop the car. Brake pads are attached to the rotors, which are round wheel brakes. The pads within your brake system are made of a hard material, ranging from organic compounds to asbestos, and wear out over time. They need to be checked and replaced, as do the rotors. more Maintaining the Brake Pads Caring for your car brakes involves having them checked regularly and replaced when needed. The system will usually give off a warning when it's nearing time for replacement, such as a high-pitched squeal when you press the pedal. Within most brake pads, you'll find a sheet of metal, which is called an indicator. When the pad is nearly worn out and the indicator is exposed, you'll hear the squealing sound that tells you it's time for new brake pads. Not all brake pads contain indicators, so be aware of other signs of potential brake issues. Some of these signs include soft or unresponsive brakes and a pedal that you have to press harder than usual. The average lifespan of brake pads is between 25,000 and 65,000 miles. Rotor Maintenance The rotors in your brake system usually last longer than the pads. In fact, many drivers can have the pads replaced two or three times before having to do the rotors. However, when you notice the warning signs of worn-out rotors, it's important to act quickly and get them fixed. A grinding sound when you brake is one of the key indicators. You may be able to have your rotors turned, which involves shaving them down to reveal a smooth, rounded surface, although this isn't always an option. Alter Your Driving Habits Certain driving habits can impact how long your brake pads and rotors last. If you're heavy on the pedal, braking hard and stopping quickly, you could find that you have to replace these components more often. Loading down your car with heavy cargo can also wear out the pads and rotors faster, so keep it as lightweight as possible. Another way to extend the lifespan of your brakes is to have the lines flushed every few years. At Brown-Lee Ford, our service department offers brake service and other automotive services. If you'd like to check that your brakes are still functional or have a repair done, contact us to schedule an appointment. Image via

Morrison, TN, is a small town about 60 miles from Nashville. This charming area has everything its residents need including some nice shops where you can pick up things for yourself or gifts for friends and family. If you want to head out of town for some shopping, Manchester, TN is just a short drive, and McMinnville is also only a few miles away. Here are some of the fun places to shop in and around Morrison. 1. Randy Jane & Company R andy Jane & Company is a store in McMinnville that carries an eclectic variety of unique items. Stop in here to find anything from candles, pillows, pictures you can use to decorate your walls, and furniture. You can find antique-looking items for your own home or to give as gifts, and there is also a selection of clothing. You'll find this store on E. Main Street in McMinnville. more 2. Foothills Crafts Foothills Crafts on Woodbury Highway in Manchester has lots of unique handcrafted items for sale. You can find handmade jewelry here along with stained glass items, and wind chimes. This is the perfect spot to stop for a Valentine's gift for your special person, whether you want to find them the perfect piece of jewelry, a book, or a one-of-a-kind piece of art created by a local artist. You can even find handmade pillows here or a birdhouse to set outside your home. 3. The Trendy Trunk McMinnville is also home to The Trendy Trunk. This shop carries a wide variety of items from women and children's clothing, including denim, dresses, and casual clothes for girls, flannels, sweatshirts, and more. You can also find handmade jewelry here along with candles, and lots of seasonal items. Shop for items from several different vendors who bring their items into the Trendy Trunk and set up shop. It is a fun place to find a variety of unique and one-of-a-kind items. 4. Lynn's Pickett Fence Head to nearby Woodbury and stop by Lynn's Pickett Fence. This local antique shop has lots of items that you can't find anywhere else. The owner is always bringing in new things, so there is something different to see every time you go in. You never know what you might come out with after shopping at Lynn's Pickett Fence. You can find antique lamps, decorations for your home, gifts, furniture, and items for the kitchen. 5. Evelyn Taylor Avenue Evelyn Taylor Avenue is a new addition to the shopping scene in McMinnville. It is the place to shop for women's clothing and accessories, including unique jewelry, Brown Dog Hosiery socks, and Over Under wallets. Find a complete look at Evelyn Taylor Avenue with items you can wear from head to toe, and then move on to find things for your home. This shop also has rugs, gifts, mugs, from Stash Style, coats to keep you warm on chilly Tennessee days, and you can even find Kate Spade stationary. Find what you need at these stores within a short drive from Morrison. Image via pixabay.com