Last year my husband and I went to a bed and breakfast in Pigeon Forge for a little get-away. It was so refreshing that before leaving, we booked it for this year. We had all year to look forward to this mini vacation. That was half of the fun!

It seems like a crazy time to leave home with Christmas a week away, but honestly, it was a blessing. We had time to enjoy the beauty of the decorations in Pigeon Forge and Dollywood, as well as the B&B. We were able to take a breath before the busyness of hosting family and making final preparations. We were able to focus on our relationship and just spend time together. It was wonderful – hence the reason we decided we would return again this year.

And so, last week we enjoyed two nights away at this lovely, restful place. This is Blue Mountain Mist Bed and Breakfast. It’s minutes away from the bustling, tourist area, but far enough away to be quiet and serene.

They serve a hearty and delicious breakfast every morning for their guests. It’s always served on Christmas dishes in December, and the menu is also related to the holiday. One morning we had Chocolate/Peppermint pancakes, along with an egg casserole and fresh fruit. So good!

The hosts are so accommodating and gracious. The rooms are super clean and decorated for Christmas. In the evening they set out seasonal homemade treats for their guests. You certainly don’t go hungry!

We enjoyed our dessert in front of the fireplace one night – perfect for the cold night that it was!

Our time away gave us time to chat, pray together, and enjoy rest while not ministering with D&D, but gearing up to begin again in January. While sharing dinner together one night away I asked Dale if there was a new Christmas tradition we should start. He immediately said, “Yes, coming here each December.” I LOVED that suggestion!

Does it seem crazy that a couple married 44 1/2 years would decide to begin a new tradition? Not if we each understand that to keep a marriage fresh, you have to work at not getting in a rut. Beginning a new Christmas tradition, a new birthday or anniversary tradition keeps things fun and romantic! Starting a new schedule or a new date idea could be just thing a marriage needs to make it special again.

Going to Dollywood on a freezing cold night might seem ridiculous, but when you bundle up, and stay close together, you make a memory that’s worth keeping! We’ve decided we don’t want to grow old “grumpily!” As long as the Lord will give us health and energy, our desire is to enjoy this gift of marriage while we can. If we’re to show the Gospel in our marriage, it should reflect the joy that our relationship with Christ brings.

So how about you? Could you add something new to freshen up your marriage relationship? Could you begin a new tradition even this week of Christmas? Consider:

• A drive with just the two of you, to look at lights and a stop at Dunkin for donuts and hot chocolate.
• A small gift exchanged in front of the tree each night this week.
• Filling stockings for each other.
• Christmas breakfast out somewhere on Christmas Eve.
• A special night away the week after Christmas.
• Watch a Christmas movie in Christmas PJ’s
• Read a Christmas devotional or part of the Christmas story each morning at breakfast.
• Write a love letter to each other, expressing thanks for something from this past year.
• Finish your Christmas baking together.
• Do a gift of service together for someone in need.

No matter how long you’ve been married, a new tradition might be just the thing to add some freshness and deepen your relationship. I hope you’ll add something new! I’d love to hear about your ideas! Leave a comment about what you’d love to try to do!

Have a wonderful Christmas celebrating the Greatest Gift – the Lord Jesus Christ!

🎄