Relationship Idea #2: Project Time in Gatlinburg

This is the second article in a series of ideas on how to take the ideas from Re-Energize Your Relationship book and apply to vacationing in the Smokies.  We hope Indigo Moon Lodge is a place for you to build memories with your loved one.

Idea:  Chapter "Taken to Task" encourages you to find a project you can enjoy together, "Projects perk up partnerships...Making log furniture is just one joint project that can bring back the buzz.  Projects area a vital cog in the relationship re-energizing maching:  building a bed, painting a children's ward, making a mosaic mural..."

Plan:  Why not discover a new hobby in the Smoky Mountains?  Gain inspiration by visiting the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community.  Buy a painting, stained glass art, or pottery piece.  Place your art on your mantle as inspiration and make a pact to learn the trade. 

We visited the Alewine Pottery studio where we watched pottery transform from clay to vase.  After being in awe of the talent, I really enjoyed buying a handmade piece of pottery with beautiful deep violet, blue, and beige colors swirled.  When I glance at the piece in my home, it brings back memories.  http://www.alewinepottery.net/ttgallery.aspx

Action:  Perhaps you are ready now for a hands on project and don't want to wait to go home to learn.  Why not take a class together in the Smokies?  The Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts offers weekend and one week classes.  Learn painting, photography, jewelry, chair making, and much more.  Visit their website for class schedule and pricing: 
http://www.arrowmont.org/register

Relationship Idea #1: Mountain Music in Gatlinburg

This is the first article in a series of ideas on how to take the advice from book Re-Energize Your Relationship by Sabina Dosani, MD, and Peter Cross to building your relationship while vacationing in the Smoky Mountains.  We hope Indigo Moon Lodge is a place where your hearts can sing together and build amazing memories.
The chapter "Music, the food of love" promotes enjoying music as a couple, "For the definite turn-on, turn on some music.  Shakespeare called it the food of love...Mozart, Motown, or Madonna:  so much magnificent music to push your partner's buttons.  Isn't it time you put aside the familiar and experimented with something new?..."

Idea:  How about experimenting with mountain music?  Engage all your senses; listen for local bands playing near the stores in Gatlinburg downtown, Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, & Pigeon Forge.  Often there's no harge.  Just join the fun. 

Plan:  Outside the Ole Smoky Moonshine store in downtown Gatlinburg, we relaxed in rocking chairs and enjoyed the music of Monroeville.  Six talented musicians had us rocking - Daniel Salyer, Matt Flake, Travis Houck, Matthew Munsey, Seth Taylor, and Zane Petty.  Plus this concert gave us a great opportunity to support the local artists and take home a souvenir.  When you buy the cd, you relive the memories through your ears.