Graceland

"I''m going to Graceland, Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee...going to Graceland, Graceland."....Paul Simon knew of which he sang. Graceland is special...and not just to old line Elvis fans, but as a part of the American culture. They have done a very good job of tying Elvis into the cultural phenomenon that he became and how he did influence so much of how we behaved back in the 50's. Graceland itself was bought by Elvis in 1957 for just over $100,000. It not only included the house, but over 12 acres which remain very much as it was in 1977 when he died at the very early age of 42. The interior of the house reflects the decorating style of Elvis, which was eclectic, to say the least. I am not quite sure that it is how we might decorate today...but, he liked it and, I guess, that's what counts. As you stroll through the trophy rooms you are overwhelmed by all of the gold records and other awards that he accumulated in just over 20 years of performing. Also included is a tour of his two airplanes and his museum of cars, including the famous pink Cadillac that he bought and eventually gave to his mother. A trip to Graceland is worth the time and money it costs just to see up close and personal all of the parts of this legend's life that all of us have seen in pictures throughout these past 50 years.