What a wonderful get away I have just enjoyed! I recognize the benefit of giving yourself a daily mini break to maintain effectiveness, but it is such a treat to actually leave town for a few days and do nothing but the fun stuff!

My sister and I went to the Smoky Mountains this past week, where we have both been many times, with the intention of doing different things than we usually do. You know how it is to have those routines at each vacation destination, such as that special restaurant where you must eat and that certain shop you just must check out or that show you can’t leave without seeing. I must admit that there was one thing we did as usual, but how can you drive past those great outlet malls without going in?! We did shop in some different stores this time though!

There is a favorite pancake restaurant that we make a priority and drive all the way into Gatlinburg for every time. We were on a mission this trip to find the next best pancakes in Pigeon Forge without driving so far. We had breakfast at a different pancake place every morning. Pancakes every day was quite a splurge, but we were willing to make the sacrifice. Each day found us with better pancakes than the day before and we found our new must-have pancake place! We shared many of our meals to prevent eating so much so we could also share the not-so-good-for-you fun stuff with less guilt. And yes, we even shared the pancakes.

Dollywood was one adventure that was new for me. It is such a beautiful place, especially with the Fall decorations along with the natural Fall colors of the trees. There was a cool breeze the day we were there and at one point colorful leaves were actually “raining” down on us. Some experiences are priceless. Standing in line was even fun because we got to meet new people and enjoyed visiting with them. We even shared a table with another pair of sisters! Such fun.

One thing I found interesting is that on our last day as we were enjoying the best pancakes and preparing to head home, we noticed so many things to do and places to explore that we had not noticed before. A simple change in mindset broadens our horizons! Now we are already planning for next time.

I want to continue looking for new adventures so I can live! . . . life to the fullest.