The Great Date Escape!

The Great Date Escape!

Autumn's almost here, and with it comes a change in schedule as summer activities wind down and the kids go back to school. Sometimes the relaxation you hoped for during the lazy, hazy days of summer eluded you and you long for some time to regroup, refresh, and reflect not just as an individual but as a couple. 

Every marriage needs a shot in the arm once in awhile--something (somewhere) that breathes new life into your relationship. 'Cause let's face it, folks, relationships can get downright stale at times. So many things vie for our attention: career demands, children's activities, extended family obligations, and even church functions run us in all different directions, leaving us drained with little energy or time left to invest in our Number One Ministry: Our Marriage!

Before we realize it, weeks, months, even years roll by without intentionally and purposefully nurturing our couple relationship. 

Time away is not a luxury; it's a necessity for a growing marriage.

That being said, let's get down to brass tacks. What might an annual "getaway" program look like? Here's a couple suggestions you can adapt to your personal lifestyle and needs.

1. Shoot for one date night every week. You don't have to blow the budget to fulfill this goal. A twenty-minute walk around the block with your mate might just do the trick. The important thing is to focus on your spouse, take turns listening to what the other person has to say without interrupting or offering judgments. Love your mate the way s/he likes--a foot rub, dinner out, or participating/ watching one of your spouse's favorite activities.

2. Shoot for two-three weekends away a year. Some experts believe it takes three days to wind down and "leave" the workplace behind, so plan a three-four day weekend. One of our favorite getaways is a Bed & Breakfast. Recently, we stole away to the Lovill House Inn (Boone, NC) for a two-night stay complete with full breakfast and massage package. What a treat to have an in-room massage topped off with sparkling cider, cheese, grapes, and crackers. We truly felt pampered. Later, dinner and a stroll on the streets of quaint downtown Boone capped off the day nicely. At least once a year, we like to incorporate a time during our getaway to discuss our dreams, goals, and ideas we sense God placing on our hearts for our family and ministry. We compare notes, share, and pray together about these items. It's a great way to unify our hearts and build intimacy in our relationship.

As fall peeks its head around the corner, consider whisking your honey away for a marriage retreat. If you're a B&B fan like us, here's the link to the Lovill House in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina along with a sneak preview. http://www.lovillhouseinn.com/

Lovill House Inn owned and operated by Scott and Ann Peecook and dog, Heidi :)

 Gorgeous gardens flank all sides of the house and extend beyond to a small stream where whimsical arches, gazebo, paths, and multiple birdhouses define the landscape. One of these freshly-cut dahlias welcomed us to our room, along with two Ghardiva chocolates on the bed. :)

 Mornings greeted us with the rich aroma and flavor of freshly-brewed coffee, quiche, heart-shaped waffles, yummy fruit mix, yogurt, and a variety of juices. 

Yep, we'd definitely go back!

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While you're browsing our new blog, don't forget to check out the Home Improvement tips and Intimate Meditations for Married Couples. We'll be adding more, so be sure to check back often.