Vintage Post – Ten Habits of Highly Romantic Couples

Posted on January 19, 2026 by Debi Walter

Originally posted in August, 2020.

Romance is simply thinking of your spouse above all others when it comes to time, attention, generosity and kindness. Your spouse should never feel that they come in second place to your other priorities. Of course there are seasons when it is necessary to do otherwise, but it should be the exception and not the rule.

This got me thinking about what it is romantic couples do on a regular basis that other couples may have neglected in recent years. It is never too late to turn up the romance in your marriage, and here are ten ways to get started.

  1. You keep your appearance up the way your spouse likes it. I know of one couple who have been married 60+ years. She still puts on her makeup, including lipstick, everyday because her husband loves it. That’s romance.
  2. You make it a priority to know what is on your spouse’s schedule and do what you can to help them accomplish it.
  3. You listen when your spouse is telling you about their day. This includes putting down your screens and looking at them.
  4. You plan romantic surprises that they will love, not necessarily what you would want them to do for you. Sometimes we can do things for our spouse in an underhanded way to show them what they’re not doing for us. This is a romance killer—don’t do it!
  5. Let your spouse know that making love is important to you by making the first advance. This can start in the morning and last all day long. Flirting is always practiced by romantic couples.
  6. Plan regular dates where you can connect heart to heart. Go the next step and plan the whole evening ahead of time: babysitter, where to go and what to do.
  7. Pay attention to their off-the-cuff remarks. Often times they will say what they really wish they could do in this way, but they don’t think it’s a priority or affordable. The most romantic memories we share are when we made something happen that the other didn’t think was possible.
  8. Be kind. Open their car door. Rub their shoulders after a hard day. Bake their favorite dessert. Buy them their favorite drink and hand deliver it. Call them and compliment them on something they’ve done recently. Kindness begets kindness. And romance grows strong in the soil of kindness. Be their biggest fan!
  9. Keep your promises. We have heard many women say there is nothing so romantic as a man who washes the dishes. If you said you would do something to help your spouse, make sure you do it and do it well.
  10. Don’t do what you see other couples doing without studying your spouse to see what they want to do. We can miss getting to know our spouse because we make assumptions. Your spouse is unique and so is your marriage. Romance is cultivated when both of you are focused on pleasing each other, not copying what you see or hear other couples are doing. 

Being romantic isn’t hard, but it requires being intentional. 

Romance Prompt: Find a couple you see who are romantic and ask them over or to go on a double date. Spend time asking them what they’ve done to cultivate romance in their marriage. Commend them for the example they’ve been to you, and then offer to buy their meal, if you’re able. It’s good to encourage couples you see doing things right for it builds humility and gratitude in your own heart, and it edifies them for doing something well.

Gratefulness is the first step towards change. In what ways are you grateful for your spouse? 

Posted in Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages, Romance in Marriage | Tagged , | 5 Comments

Foodie Fridays – Blistered Shishito Peppers

Posted on January 17, 2026 by Debi Walter

Shishito (pronounced “shi-sheet’-o”) peppers are available in the produce section of most grocery stores. This is one of our favorite appetizers to enjoy during a football game.

All you must do is wash peppers and dry completely. Toss in a tablespoon of olive oil, Next, sprinkle with garlic salt. toss peppers until well coated.

Preheat a cast iron (preferred) skillet to medium high. Place peppers into skillet and leave for 4-5 minutes. Turn and continue to cook until the peppers begin popping. I usually press down on the peppers to help them pop.

Once blistered all around they are ready to eat and enjoy. These are mostly mild peppers, but be aware—1 in 10 can be hot.

I must add—GO BILLS! 🦬

Posted in Christian Marriage, Foodie Fridays | Tagged , , | 4 Comments

Vintage Post – Four Encouragements for the Discouraged Marriage

Posted on January 14, 2026 by Debi Walter

This post was originally posted in 2011. We think it applies as much today…

Marriages can go through all sorts of ups and downs as the years pass. This is expected to some degree, for it’s shared in most wedding vows: for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. Knowing this helps, but when your marriage is going through a down time, it’s hard to find needed encouragement. If you’re not on guard you can find yourself looking for greener pastures.

This is why we want to provide 4 encouragements to those who are discouraged in their marriage. You probably know all these, but if you’re the one who is discouraged you most likely need a reminder.

Encouragement #1 – Hebrews 13 says, “Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.  Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 

Contentment is often associated with the pleasant place, but here God is calling us to be content because He has promised He will never leave us or forsake us. He will walk with us through the discouraging times helping us see the big picture, the eternal perspective of life. So if you are looking down, take some time to worship God for this truth. Play a favorite worship song. It will lift your eyes.

Encouragement #2 – Philippians 4:6-7 says, “…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

Oftentimes when we’re discouraged we allow our emotions to dictate and inform our thoughts, when that is the worst thing to do. Our emotions are not to be trusted, especially when we are being led into a downward spiral. How do we stop this runaway train? By crying out to God in desperate prayer. Let Him hear your heart. Let Him hear your fears. Let Him carry your unbelief, and He will listen. He loves it when, in our weakness we seek His strength, for this gives Him the glory He deserves. God has promised that He will give us peace when we do. If you have prayed and still lack peace–pray more. Pray until you feel the burden lift. The peace isn’t dependent on our circumstances changing. It comes when we learn to trust God in this place of uncertainty. He is our strong tower, and He longs for us to run to Him. David knew how to do this well. Read Psalm 4 for an example.

Encouragement #3 – Proverbs 24 says, “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might, for by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.” 

Seek help. There are times in all marriages where you simply can’t dig yourself out of the hole in which you find yourself. In times like these we must humble ourselves and seek the help of others. You’ve heard the saying, you can’t see the forest for the trees, well in marriage maybe you can’t see the answer because the problem looms too large in front of you? If your spouse won’t go with you for help, then we encourage you to go yourself. Change begins in your own heart, for it’s the only one over which you have control.

Encouragement #4 – Psalm 9 says, “I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.”  Take some time and recall all that the Lord has done for you in the past. Let this produce thanksgiving to God for what He was able to do then, and let this inform your future that God is good. Start a journal where you both list the things you can remember and if you cant remember ask God to help you. He will. What a testimony this journal will be not only to you in the years ahead, but also to those who are coming up behind you. It will stand and proclaim what God has done when death has already parted you in this life.

What other ways can you think of to encourage those who are discouraged in their marriage? Won’t you take a minute to share your thoughts for their benefit in the comments?

Posted in Biblical Encouragement, Christian Marriage | Tagged | 8 Comments

Blog Love: Living Our Days

Posted on January 12, 2026 by Debi Walter

Michele has become a dear friend of mine and her posts often resonate with me. This one is no exception.

We mentioned that we are going through a book study with a small group from church. The book is titled, I Still Do by Dave Harvey. This article pairs well with the first three chapters we have read so far.

We invite you to check out Michele’s blog too. Your life will be enriched by her insight into the Bible and her devotion to her marriage and family.

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Your Only Sure Protection From The Tragedy Of Moral Collapse

By Michele Morin, Living Our Days

We’ve been tackling some much-needed cleaning projects here on the hill, and it feels good to move furniture, vacuum up accumulated dust, and throw away the things we don’t need. Big jobs require time and a certain amount of elbow grease, but the results reward the investment. 

Routine tasks are less exciting: wiping down the counters after a day of ordinary meal prep, keeping up with the laundry and the dirty dishes, sweeping up the detritus around the woodstove. While these mundane tasks don’t deliver a big dopamine rush, if we ignore them, the results will soon be pretty obvious.

The same could be said about our spiritual life, the “housekeeping” of our hearts. Regular communication with God, confession of sin, and receiving daily grace for the “normal” Christian life doesn’t look very heroic. It can even seem monotonous, stale, and stuffy. But this is how we “wipe down the counters” and “load the dishwasher” in our following life.

The Tragedy of Moral Collapse

I was saddened to read Philip Yancey’s confession of an extramarital affair that had been ongoing for eight years. It’s always disappointing to discover that one’s idols have feet of clay. His books have been one of the steady voices in my ear for over twenty years, and I’ve quoted from and recommended a number of them in my reviews.

I don’t usually interact much with the comings and goings of the news here, but I feel compelled to point out that moral collapse happens in the same manner in which Ernest Hemingway described bankruptcy: “Gradually, and then suddenly.” A series of seemingly small compromises will undermine the bedrock of years of faithful living.

Perhaps Yancey’s parting gift to the evangelical world as he withdraws from public life will be the realization that there’s not a one of us who is immune to the siren call of sin. Every one of us needs to examine our own hearts and pay attention. At age 63, I still have plenty of time to make an unholy mess of my life.

By grace, we can finish well. We can add our voices to Paul’s in this pledge of allegiance:

“Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)

Grace to finish well will come to us through humble, routine habits of holiness. Wiping down the daily grime and exposing the dust of our disordered loves protects us from the tragedy of moral collapse.

The prize is not a good reputation or a stellar legacy. The prize is Christ, and the commitment to pursue that “upward call” produces the benefit of a life well-lived. Thanks be to God for the cross, our sacred starting place and our only hope for a faithful finish.

Holding You in the Light!

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Let’s be diligent to “keep our counters clean,” for God’s glory and our good. Have a blessed and intentional week!

Posted in Besetting Sins, Biblical Encouragement, Blog Love, Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages, Temptation | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

Foodie Fridays – Thai Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Posted on January 9, 2026 by Debi Walter

I have a neighbor who has become a dear friend. We first met years ago when her daughter was applying for college. She asked if I would edit her essay. I was happy to do it for her.

I learned more about her as the years passed. She is from Vietnam and came to America during the fall of Saigon. It is an amazing story of survival and determination to make a better life for her and now her family.

Our shared love for cooking is why I’m introducing her to you. A couple of years ago our neighborhood encouraged us to celebrate Be A Good Neighbor Day by doing something special and unexpected for them. Phu made us spring Rolls that were fantastic! We devoured them.

I reciprocated by making her my homemade Chicken Pot Pie. Sharing our cultures by the food we enjoy has brought us closer.

A couple of weeks ago she made us more Spring Rolls that I froze until after the holidays.

When I added it to this week’s menu plan I found a great side dish to go with it—Thai Slaw with Peanut Dressing. It is creamy, crunchy, non-dairy and packed with flavor. A great choice for picnics too! I had to substitute Coconut Aminos for the soy sauce since I can’t have soy. I also added more Coconut Aminos and an extra splash of Sesame oil to taste.

Unfortunately, I didn’t take any photos. I didn’t realize it would become a new favorite.

I found this recipe on the Cooking Classy website. I have added her photos on this post as well. Check out her site for even more amazing recipes.

Have a great weekend!

Posted in Christian Marriage, Foodie Fridays | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Encouraging Words

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Debi Walter

We mentioned we are reading through the book, I Still Do, by Dave Harvey. One of the first things in the discussion questions was to sit together and share at least 5 things you love and admire about your spouse.

This proved to be a very encouraging conversation, although a little uncomfortable. It is challenging to listen to your spouse say good things about you.

Why is that? Maybe it’s because we aren’t used to it.

We encourage you sometime this week to set aside time together to have this conversation. Make it special with favorite treats you both enjoy.

“A good book at the right time is a wise companion. It’s like a Sherpa for the mind, guiding you up mountains towards maturity—right to the place where God is calling you to go. Good books carry tools we don’t even know we need. But they’re embedded there in the text, ready for our use when the right moment comes.” – Dave Harvey, I Still Do

Let’s start 2026 off by being an encourager to our spouse.

Posted in Cherishing, Christian Marriage, communication | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Vintage Post: Is Your Spouse a Prisoner of Your Expectations?

Posted on January 3, 2026 by Debi Walter

Originally written in 2013, this is still needed today…

Imagine you’re having a conversation with your spouse when something doesn’t quite sit right with you. You ask your spouse a question to clarify what you heard them say. They don’t respond right away. There is, what we call, a “pregnant silence.” That’s when you know there are lots of things your spouse is wanting to say, but they’re holding their tongue until they figure out how to say it. Or your spouse may blurt out a defensive response that you didn’t expect.

Either way, what do you do in that moment? Here are your choices:

  • Bark back allowing a huge argument to ensue.
  • Cross your arms, close your heart and refuse to talk about it anymore.
  • Wait until your spouse says what they have to say. And then ask more questions until you’re sure you completely understand how they got to this conclusion.

So often we judge our spouse based on the past, or based on what we think they mean. 

Both of these are unfair treatments. It leaves no room for growth or change. If we always expect our spouse to be the same way in certain situations, it pretty much chains them to it. We make them a prisoner of our expectations whether good or bad. Where is the grace in that? Is this how Christ treats us when we’ve failed, yet again, in a certain area? Or is He patient, allowing us room to grow through our failures?

We know the answer. Christ was patient unto death. He willingly took what our sins deserved in order to make a way for us to change. God wants us to do the same for our spouse. He wants us to die to our own expectations and trust Him to work in our spouse for their good and His glory. Sometimes the best thing we can give our spouse is patient silence, rather than picking away at the lack we see.

But then, this isn’t easy, is it? We’re all sinners at heart and doing the right thing, thinking the right way, and responding with grace towards those we love takes diligent effort. We get tired. We grow weary. And we just want to be happy and have peace.

Times like these can reveal idols in our heart. 

What is it you’re craving in a moment like this? Is it peace? Is it understanding? Or is it to glorify God. The last answer is the right one. God doesn’t promise us a conflict-free marriage. No, He uses the conflicts we face to challenge false gods we may be worshiping.  Of course, most of us don’t set up an Asherah pole in our living room, or wield golden calves in our garage, but we do set up idols.

An idol can be anything we desire or long for more than glorifying God. 

It could be financial freedom, job security, a new car, or even respectful children.

There is a fine line in our heart between genuine love for God’s creation and sinful worship of the same. Only He knows when we’ve crossed the line, and He’s faithful to let us know that is, IF we’re paying attention. Our conflicts often help us see what’s in our own hearts.

If we want our marriage to grow, then we must seize moments like these and ask God to show us the bigger picture of what He’s after in our heart. This isn’t easy, but it’s important to remember that the Holy Spirit dwells inside of us, and He will help us hear God in the midst of the trouble.

What conflict are you facing in your marriage? How can we pray for you?

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Conflict | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Reflecting on 2025

Posted on December 30, 2025 by Debi Walter

This is the time of year for reflection. I have been doing this for a few weeks now, thus my lack of posts. It was November when I last shared my thoughts with you.

Why the pause?

Honestly, I’m discouraged about the blogging world. We have been doing this since 2008 and it has been a joy. The friends we have made around the world is one part. But those of you who have shared your stories with us and even asked for help and hope is what we love most.

Many blogs have moved their websites to Substack where it is easier to connect with like-minded people. I’ve tried this, and even started our own Substack, but it is confusing and I can’t seem to find the help I need to navigate yet another platform.

Others have started podcasts, which isn’t my forte at all! I’m a writer, not a public speaker.

But the main reason I’m discouraged is another new wave of technology—bots who access our blog posts for content they can reuse. I know this is happening because I will get one hit on hundreds of posts. There are no comments. It’s like my blog has become an outpost for lonely robots wandering Cyberspace. This is not helping marriages thrive, which is our purpose in blogging.

In 2026 the Lord is leading me to begin writing in earnest again. It may or may not include writing here, that is up to the Lord to decide. I wanted to let you know why the absence.

We are also starting a marriage community group in our home in January. We are going through the book, I Still Do, by Dave Harvey. We highly recommend it! We haven’t led a small group since 2020. We are excited to connect face-to-face with couples in our church as we seek to learn and grow.

Anyway, that’s where we are right now. We appreciate your prayers, and if we can pray for you, please let us know in the comments. This alone will prove you aren’t a lonely robot. ❤️

Happy New Year!

Posted in Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages | Tagged , , , , | 13 Comments

Foodie Fridays – No Words Needed

Posted on November 28, 2025 by Debi Walter

These are photos of our Thanksgivings in GA and in TN. Two meal preps, two delicious meals, three families we love dearly. The family that cooks together makes great memories that satisfy body and soul.

Posted in Christian Marriage, Foodie Fridays, Holidays, thanksgiving | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

Foodie Fridays – Thanksgiving Favorites

Posted on November 21, 2025 by Debi Walter

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday because the whole purpose of it is to give thanks. There is no imitation to the purpose of this holiday as there is Christmas and Easter. We focus on how good God has been to us, even when the circumstances we are facing aren’t good. He never changes, and this gives us cause to celebrate in a big way.

What better way to celebrate than to prepare the best feast for whoever is able to join us at our table?

We are driving to GA to have an early Thanksgiving with our daughter and her family. Then we’ll drive to TN to spend Thanksgiving Day with our son and his family. Both have requested my dressing and I love making it for them.

Years ago I created my own recipe combining the dressing my southern grandmother used to make with the dressing my Italian Mother-in-love used to make. Who knew that it would become our family favorite? It makes me happy. I call it…

Our Family’s Best Dressing

INGREDIENTS:

Corn Bread (I use this recipe)
Pepperidge Farms herbed stuffing mix, small
1 stick of butter
3 onions, chopped
6 celery stalks, chopped
3 eggs
32 oz. box of chicken broth + more as needed
16 oz. bulk mild Italian sausage
1 T. Sage

1 cup or more chestnuts, chopped (I buy them ready-to eat at Costco)
Salt and Pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Make 9 x 9 pan of cornbread according to directions. Let it cool completely, then break it up into crumbs in a large bowl. Add herbed stuffing mix, sage, salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Preheat oven to 400°.

In large skillet brown the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Remove and set aside. In same skillet melt stick of butter then saute’ onions and celery until tender. Add to cornbread mixture along with sausage and stir. Whisk eggs in separate bowl and add to cornbread mixture. Stir with your hands to thoroughly mix adding chicken broth, a ladle at a time. The goal is to reach a consistency like thick oatmeal.

Pour into a 13 x 9 greased pan. Bake covered at 400 degrees for an hour to an hour and a half. Remove foil to brown and until it reaches a temperature of 165°. If you make a day ahead, pour an additional cup of broth over the stuffing before baking.

This is the aroma of Thanksgiving in our home. It represent our two families in one harmonious dish.

We wish you and yours a rich and satisfying celebration whether your table is full or not. It is good to remember the One who never changes and is always present with you.

We thank God for you, our followers. We pray your marriage is strengthened by the grace God supplies all the other days of the year.

“Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Posted in Christian Marriage, Foodie Fridays, Holidays, Thankfulness, thanksgiving | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

What Will You Do With Yours?

Posted on October 27, 2025 by Debi Walter

If you had an extra hour in your day what would you do with it? Finish something on your to-do list? Sleep an extra hour? Nothing?

We have a suggestion. Since this Saturday is when our clocks “fall back” to Daylight Standard Time, why not plan a mini date? What can you do in an hour? Well, of course there’s the obvious—enjoy some physical intimacy after you put the kids to bed. Following is our list of hour long date ideas:

  • Go out for dessert and coffee or wine
  • Fire pit under the stars
  • Make a banana split to share
  • Go for a walk in the dark
  • Play your favorite video game for an hour. See who is ahead when the timer goes off.
  • Do a jigsaw puzzle. See if you can get the outside put together in an hour.
  • Watch your favorite old TV series. One of our favorite is The Carol Burnet Show.
  • Take turns picking your favorite You Tube videos of your favorite songs from years gone by. (We did this with 70’s Christian music and it brought back so many fond memories.)

So let us ask the question again—what will you do with yours?

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It is so good to have you as part of our Vineyard family. we pray your week is full of moments that matter.

Blessings,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Cheap Dates, Christian Marriage, Date Night Ideas, Dating Your Spouse | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Foodie Fridays – Jambalaya

Posted on October 24, 2025 by Debi Walter

Our Sunday dinner for October was with friends we have known since before they were married. And they are celebrating 20 years today!

The moment they walked in the door the laughter began. We hugged and reminisced until the timer went off, indicating it was time to eat!

The menu was a delicious salad, (which they brought), Jambalaya with andouille sausage, chicken and shrimp and homemade cornbread on the side. This meal was a first for me and they were the perfect guests with whom to experiment. They love spicy food as we do, so we were able to crank up the heat.

This was a great meal from start to finish. For dessert I prepared affogato, which is simply vanilla bean ice cream with espresso poured over the top. This was the perfect ending to our night around the table.

We have a saying on the wall of our dining room which reads, “The best memories are made when gathered around the table.”

This has been true for us.

It is good to ponder the memories you’ve made around your family’s table and those with whom you’ve shared a meal. Such moments are more important than the food you’ve enjoyed. Connecting heart to heart is the life blood of a satisfying meal.

As Thanksgiving approaches I am anticipating time around the table with family—my favorite people to cook for.

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We are thrilled to have you visit our blog today. It’s almost like welcoming you to our table; the preparations are just as intentional. May your marriage and your dining room table be filled with moments you cherish this week.

Blessings,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Christian Marriage, Foodie Fridays, Sunday Dinners | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Never Too Old To Grow

Posted on October 22, 2025 by Debi Walter

A while ago we were in a meeting at church when one of the husband’s commended his wife for her consistency. He said it was evident in many ways in her life, but one way I have not forgotten. She is faithful to make their bed as soon as she gets up. He continued to say this has been true of her for decades.

Wow! I have areas that I’m consistent in as well, but making the bed daily is not one of them.

I think of her example every morning when I make my bed now. And they have no idea.

This made me realize how much we can be an influence to others in their marriage without even knowing it.

If this husband didn’t commend her publicly, I may have never been challenged to work on being more consistent in this small, but important way.

How well do you commend your spouse for the things they do regularly around the house or elsewhere?

Here’s a challenge—let’s purpose to commend our spouse, both privately and publicly, of the things we appreciate they do. This will bring great encouragement to them realizing even the smallest of tasks are seen and appreciated. But it will also serve as an example to those whom you know.

We are never too old to grow and change. And by the way, did you make your bed today? 😂

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Thanks for stopping by today. We pray you have been encouraged to grow in ways that may not seem important. But your example may inspire others to do the same.

Blessings,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Cherishing, Christian Marriage, romanticizing your master bedroom, Showing Honor, Testimonies | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

No Grunting Allowed

Posted on October 20, 2025 by Debi Walter

It started almost 3 years ago when a friend gifted Tom one month to work out with him for an hour. It was scheduled twice a week, with his personal trainer. This is all it took for Tom to begin working out on a regular basis. It helps to have a friend to work out with and even better to have another friend who is your personal trainer, double accountability.

A year later the guys offered to take us girls to lunch regularly if we would join them; and so began what we call jokingly call The Geriatric Hour at the gym. 😂

We used to grunt a lot when standing or sitting because it was an effort to do so. Now we grunt when standing or sitting because our muscles are sore from working out regularly.

This weekend Tom and I made a pact—if one of us grunts we have to repeat what we did to make us grunt without making any sounds. Amazing how this has worked!

It is even more amazing how much stronger we have become being consistent in our workouts.

On our recent trip to two National Parks, we were able to walk, climb and hike as much as we wanted. Three years ago, I don’t think this would have been the case.

We thank God for this gift and don’t take it for granted, since there are no guarantees for prolonged health or strength. But as long as we are able, we will make the most of this time we have together. It is hard, but we have a lot of fun laughing with and at each other; this is the best remedy for combating old age syndrome.

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Thank you for dropping by today. We pray your week is filled with opportunities to connect heart to heart. And maybe squeeze in a long walk—your hearts will thank you. Just don’t grunt! 🤣

Blessings,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages, Priorities | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Foodie Fridays – Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Posted on October 17, 2025 by Debi Walter

I was on the phone with my daughter in GA and asked her what she was cooking for dinner. She immediately replied, “Chicken and Dumplings!” This was no surprise as it was her favorite meal as a kid.

I couldn’t stop thinking about it, so I decided to make it as well.

Fortunately, I had made chicken stock and put it in the freezer. All I need was to cook some chicken thighs and make the dumplings. I was excited!

I used one recipe for the chicken and a different one for the dumplings. However, I made so many adjustments to the recipes it is fair to say this is now my recipe.

Now let’s just hope I can remember everything I did to share it with you. This is hands down the best chicken and dumplings I have ever had; Tom agreed too. It was one of those meals you wished you didn’t get full because we would have eaten the whole pot. We were happy a day later that we had leftovers.

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 chicken thighs
  • 2 quarts chicken stock (or use homemade if you have it)
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1/2 – 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning, to taste
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/3 cup shortening
  • 3/4 cup milk (or more if too dry)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
  • Splash of fresh squeezed lemon juice

Preheat oven to 350°. Then spray a baking dish with non-stick spray. Drizzle the chicken thighs with the olive oil, then salt and pepper them on both sides.

Bake chicken for 35- 45 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°.

Remove from oven and shred the thighs with two forks and set aside.

In a separate bowl whisk the flour, baking powder and sprinkle in some poultry seasoning.

With your hands mix the shortening to the flour and rub together with your fingers until there are no more large clumps of shortening.

Pour in milk and mix it all together with a spoon or your hands. The mixture should hold together but not be sticky.

Shape into a disc with your hands. Sprinkle with flour and flip over making sure both sides are floured well, (This is to prevent sticking to the surface.)

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4” thickness. Keep the roller and surface well-floured as this is what will thicken your stock.

Using a pizza cutter or knife cut dough into 1” x 2” strips. Let rest.

Bring chicken stock to a boil on the stove, then add shredded chicken.

One by one add the dumplings to the stock to keep from sticking together. They will float at first, but sink some as they absorb the stock. Stir frequently while adding the dumplings.

The dumplings will take about 15-20 minutes to cook. Taste test one to make sure they aren’t doughy.

Serve immediately, adding a splash of lemon juice, plus salt and pepper as needed.

We hope you enjoy this comfort food as much as we did. Cooking this the same night our daughter was making it made me smile. It was as if we were cooking together and I miss those times. Thanksgiving is coming…

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Welcome to our new followers. Foodie Fridays is a regular feature on our blog because food is my husband’s love language. It helps that I love to cook for him too.

Food nourishes the soul and the heart!

Have a blessed weekend,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Christian Marriage, Foodie Fridays | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

One Day Road Trip Adventures

Posted on October 15, 2025 by Debi Walter

Yesterday was a day long-awaited. Tom was born in Buffalo and loves the food he grew up enjoying—wings, pizza and beef on a weck. I have come to love it too, and even cook his favorites for him.

He discovered a restaurant in Lakeland, FL, The 716 Pizza Joint, he wanted to try. It also helps that they have everything Buffalo Bill memorabilia, Tom is a huge fan! Even though they lost terribly on Monday night, we made plans to make the one hour drive to try it.

While the food was good, it wasn’t what we expected. Isn’t that the way it is with expectations? Tom has thought of going here for months, and when we finally did there was a let down.

But that didn’t ruin the day. On the way home we decided to take back roads and enjoy seeing the beauty of old Florida, how it looked when I was growing up.

We saw so much farm land and cattle ranches. Homesteaders who are raising goats and chickens. There were bee hives and orange groves too. I loved the drive as much as our lunch.

Orange groves used to line all the hills of Lake County.

One day road trips are a great way to connect.

While driving Tom asked me to read the questions from Monday’s post. It was a good opportunity to have a conversation about us—how we are each doing and where we can improve.

We ended the drive checking out the only vineyard we have in Central Florida, Lakeridge Winery. It was the perfect way to finish our day trip, sitting under the shade of huge oak tree, overlooking the vineyard and sipping on Sauvignon Blanc.

We are best friends and when life gets busy, one day road trips pull us away long enough to reconnect.

We have decided to continue making these adventures a regular part of our retired life. You would think we have all the time in the world to do this, but we find that we are busier now than ever. The best thing is—we are doing what we love together. and this had made all the difference.

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Now that the weather isn’t scorching hot, we love having time together outside. How are you making the most of this fall weather together?

Blessings,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Daytime Dates, Orlando Date Ideas, Retirement, Seasons of Life | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Always On My Mind

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Debi Walter

I love music. I usually have a song running through my thoughts, and often wake up with one playing on repeat. Sometimes I notice this more than at other times—like last night.

Tom and I were sitting outside enjoying the golden hour of sunset, when I started humming a song made famous by Willie Nelson. The title is You Were Always On My Mind.

I’m not a huge Willie Nelson fan, so when it came to mind I noticed. I looked up the lyrics and realized how sad it is. A man admits how he has neglected to show his lady how he truly feels about her; it is a song of regret and sorrow.

Maybe I didn’t love you
Quite as often as I could have
And maybe I didn’t treat you
Quite as good as I should have
If I made you feel second best
Girl, I’m sorry I was blind

Admitting that you are blind to something is important in marriage; it is the first step towards change. To admit wrong is an act of humility, the soil in which all the other graces grow. And saying you are sorry can open the door of communication.

And maybe I didn’t hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
I guess I never told you
I’m so happy that you’re mine
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time
But you were always on my mind
You were always on my mind

In this verse he gets more specific with his apology. He wasn’t empathetic when she needed it. He failed to talk to her about his feelings. And most of all, he admits not doing the little things day in and day out that mean the most in a marriage.

I wish there was a third verse with a happy ending. But instead this song leaves the outcome to the listeners.

It begs these questions:

  • How am I doing with showing love and empathy to you?
  • How do I show honor to you, both privately and publicly?
  • How do I comfort you when you are struggling?
  • How do I take care of little things that are important to you?
  • How often to I communicate my love and feelings to you or show my affection for you?

These are good questions to ask each other when you are both undistracted. Doing so will hopefully prevent your love from growing cold and dying as the bridge reveals in the song.

Tell me
Tell me that your sweet love hasn’t died
And give me
Give me one more chance to keep you satisfied
I’ll keep you satisfied

Being satisfied in marriage is one of the greatest gifts we can give each other. What satisfies your spouse isn’t the same as what satisfies mine. Each marriage is unique, and if you aren’t sure what areas are in need of attention, it is time to ask. Let your spouse know…

You are always on my mind.

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We are happy you’ve stopped by today. We love hearing from you and how God is helping your marriage thrive. We read and respond to all comments.

Have a blessed week,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Growing Strong Marriages, Love Songs, Music | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

Foodie Fridays – Our Favorite Pancakes

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Debi Walter

Tom and I usually have eggs for breakfast during the week and do something more fun on Saturdays. But this morning with his oh please look, he asked, “Do you want pancakes?”

“I think that sounds great!”

I grabbed my cast iron skillet and began to pre-heat it, forgetting the pancake batter has to set for 20-30 minutes. This is what makes these pancakes so fluffy.

I didn’t have buttermilk, so I made my own. Measure out the needed milk and add a 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice. Wait 5 minutes and you have an easy substitute.

This recipe comes from Magnolia Table’s first cookbook. I can’t say enough about how perfect these griddle cakes are. And if it makes more than you can eat, they freeze up great. Simply thaw and reheat in the toaster.

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For the locals this weekend is the Winter Park Fall Art Festival. Maybe we’ll see you there—the weather will be gorgeous! Have a great weekend!

Blessings,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Cherishing, Christian Marriage, Foodie Fridays | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Do You Do This?

Posted on October 6, 2025 by Debi Walter

Tom and I have been married for nearly 47 years. But we are facing a challenge we haven’t dealt with in years. The issue is who gets to defer to the other.

For example, it may be choosing where we want to eat after church on Sunday.

Tom will say, “Where would you like to go?”

“I don’t care; what sounds good to you?” I reply.

This will continue back and forth until I ask, “Why do I always have to be the one to choose?”

When we talk about it, we are both wanting to defer, but instead of causing connection, it ends up causing frustration.

When to defer and when not to defer, that IS the question!

I don’t mind picking the restaurant, unless I can’t decide. This is when I love for Tom to make the decision for me.

It reminds me of when we would have a date night planned, only to get in the car and have Tom say, “Where do you want to go?” Those were fighting words back in the day. It meant Tom hadn’t planned anything other than the babysitter.

When Tom makes the effort to plan something, it communicates not only his love, but his thoughtfulness and care. That’s a win win!

One year we took on a challenge to take turns planning our weekly date, whether it was at home, or going out. This allowed us each the benefit of giving and receiving. It is one of the highlights of our marriage.

Do you struggle with this? How have you figured out a way to give and receive? Both are good and necessary.

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It’s a blessing to have you join us today. We’d love to hear your thoughts.

Have a great week.

Blessings,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Cherishing, Christian Marriage, Conflict | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Foodie Fridays – German Bratwurst and Potato Salad

Posted on October 3, 2025 by Debi Walter

My husband is half German, half Italian, so every now and then he gets a craving for a good German Brat boiled in beer.

This craving started while we were in Montana. He saw that a restaurant was serving it nearby. Sadly after we were seated we found out it was another day. (Big sigh)

When we got home this was one of the first things I made for him. I added some German potato salad, and it satisfied his craving.

Now that it’s October, this is the perfect time to add this to your Fall menu. As a side note—I don’t care for beer, but this recipe doesn’t taste like beer—the beer just makes the brats juicier.

Tom received this jar of Pop whole grain mustard for his birthday, and used as a condiment, it made the brats even better.

Bratwurst recipe:

  • 4 -6 brats
  • Two T. butter and 1 T. Olive oil
  • One onion, sliced
  • One can light beer, Pilsner

Sauté the onions in butter and olive oil over low heat until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the brats and pour beer over the top. Bring to simmer and cook for 15-20 min. Be sure not to boil or you’ll split the brat skins. In the meantime heat your grill to medium-high. When the brats are ready, grill them for 2 minutes per side until browned and blistered. You can serve immediately or put them back in the pan on the stove to simmer until ready to eat.

For the potato salad, I found it on the All Recipes website. It was delicious served warm.

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I love this time of year, for cooking and baking. Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great weekend,

Tom and Debi ❤️❤️

Posted in Christian Marriage, Foodie Fridays | Tagged , , | Leave a comment