Time.

It is something we never seem to have enough of, unless we are bored or depressed.  Then, there is much more than we want or need, and time seems to stand still.

Yesterday time flew by while my computer stood still – literally!  I had a list of all I needed to accomplish and no time for a frozen computer!  Yet there it stood – cold and lifeless!

The phone rang…it was my unknowing husband asking a normal question, “Hey, How’s it going?”

He asked…but I’ll spare you my response with all the garbage dumping details.  (Now, you know why I posted about garbage yesterday!)

Why am I sharing all of this here?  Because this is the stuff real life – real marriage – is made of.  Monday is our weekly date night.  I wasn’t feeling the least bit romantic or wanting a date until Tom responded to my “garbage dumping” with this:

“How does a walk along the beach sound?”

Tears filled my eyes.  I love the beach; I love the vast power the waves represent.  I love the fact that God made it, and that it is a tangible expression of His character to the world.  It is always there.  It is…timeless, and so was Tom’s timing of this suggestion!

As soon as Tom came home from work, we packed the car with appetizers and drinks and drove east one hour towards the beach.  We listened to jazz music.  I read to Tom from a current book we’re reading together on prayer.  It was like the tide washing over my weary mind reminding me of what really matters; computers weren’t even on the list!

Crossing over the inter-coastal bridge the smell of salty air was invigorating.

Since it was still 95 outside we decided to eat first before we walked on the beach.  We tried a new restaurant, The Garlic, which came highly recommended by friends.  It was perfect – alfresco dining with live jazz music, great service and amazing Italian food.

The Garlic - Outdoor Dining Room

With our stomachs full, we were ready to walk…and talk.  The beach was nearly empty when we arrived.   We took off our shoes , walked in the sand holding hands and allowed the day with all its challenges to melt away with the setting sun.

New Smyrna Beach, FL

Difficult days may tempt us to postpone a date night simply because we don’t feel up to it.  I discovered yesterday a date night was exactly what I needed to help me remember what is most important in life.  And my husband, who has spent so much time with me, was listening to what my soul couldn’t say!

NOTE:  When planning a date pay attention to what your spouse’s needs are for the day.  It may be the plans need to change to better serve them.  The point of a great date isn’t having something special to write about…it’s creating intimacy with the closest friend we’ll have in this life.  This must be what motivates our dates – otherwise it becomes just another social event on our already packed calendars.

**Would you like to join the Project 52 Challenge?  It’s not too late – simply follow the link below to get all the details!**