Tennessee

Couples in Pigeon Forge

“The only way that we can live, is if we grow. The only way that we can grow is if we change. The only way that we can change is if we learn. The only way we can learn is if we are exposed. And the only way that we can become exposed is if we throw ourselves out into the open. ”
C. JoyBell C.

When you put so much needed attention, energy, resources into shaping, grooming and cultivating your life and the person you inspire to be it is important to become selective in who you share your time with.

Are you ever surrounded by people that make you uncomfortable? Something about the atmosphere, personalities, smile, even their well wishes aren’t genuine. One of the reasons why I am so fond of my hardship is because I have learned early on how to treasure each moment regardless of  my surrounding, regardless of them being mean, rude, disloyal, parasite, greedy and dishonest (a bit harsh, I know…). But, Now I am at a point in my life where I truly refuse to settle for bad company. We live in a society where we now celebrate being ‘petty’, being a savage and a lot of other negative behaviors. What have we allowed ourselves to become?

We must be honest about what we need, what we want, who we are and what we feel. Being surrounded with the right group of people during my very first couple’s gateway weekend allowed me to reflect on my journey, goals, beliefs, etc.… Being surrounded by married couples I was able to pick and choose the habits and qualities that I would want in a partner. Whether it is the ability to talk about anything and everything; being able to enjoy the peace and quiet; keeping the youthfulness alive, continue to date and aim to please one another even 10, 30, 50 years down the line; being appreciative of the little things; respecting one another as individuals and as partners.

I don’t think they even notice me reading their behavior across the room. Each couple was so unique but very inspiring and just a beautiful sight to watch. I was starting to give up on the concept of marriage because lately I have been surrounded by couples who look miserable or bored and single men who act like boys or have so many issues; hearing women at meeting saying they regret getting young or getting married at all. Yes, I know nobody is perfect and I have my fair share of vice, faults and flaws but men behaviors lately have just been alarming. The gateway gave me hope and just like watching my parents growing up, I realized fairytale still exist but it takes work. Enough of the nostalgia, I hope you are comfortable enough because I have an epic trip to tell you about.

We rented a cabin through Airbnb and off we were to Pigeon Forge. It is like any tourist zone or boardwalk with an old school vibe and structure. The island is complete with multiple stores, restaurants, arcades, rides (mainly for the kids), and a huge ferris wheel that gives you great views of the city, and an awesome fountain in the middle. The town caters to just about everyone with various options for an entire family during the day or night.

Our first activity was horseback riding as most of our team wanted the experience. Riding horses is overrated for me, especially here in the states. The horses are like robots, they do exactly what they are train to do and nothing else. My favorite activity was outdoor gravity. I just enjoyed the thrilling ride, being tossed downhill inside of an inflatable ball filled with water. They also have several hiking trails nearby unfortunately my team was not interested in hiking. The goal was to start hiking by 9am Charlie’s Bunion trail leading to jump-off trail. I love venturing into nature. It allows me to think, plan and focus but you could imagine they preferred remaining in bed for some overdue rated R moment.

Our guide at the stable recommended the Old Mills Restaurant to eat. They serve: breakfast, lunch and dinner it supposedly had a more local ambiance. We tried the Goat a popular restaurant in town. The meals do not disappoint there. In Pigeon Forge they have something called Dolly Parton’s Stampede similar to the Medieval Times. If you ask me an experience like that is a one-time thing but unfortunately I visited one too many. The dinner show has similar narrative where 2 parties engage in a friendly competition. The main difference if you one have to chose. the Dolly show has a mix cast, with many more riders, tricks, barrel full of music, dancing, and you eat with utensils instead of your hands. It literally makes the Medieval Times look like a kindergarten show.

Tennessee was eventful; I really enjoyed my time with everyone. I love moments where I have the opportunity to learn, grow and dig into the deep river within me. Cheers to many more couples retreat!