We are away with good friends for a weekend of laughter, good food and great conversation. Spring has just begun in North Carolina, which makes the weather perfect for being outdoors. We had a picnic today at a beautiful winery in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, and if I say so myself, it couldn’t have been more perfect.
Tom and I took a walk among the vines to see if was time for bud break yet. And no, we’re not talking about a beer commercial. 🙂 Bud break is the first leaves that open on the woody vines. It is a time to celebrate in the vineyard for it means life is still present in the vine, although it has been dormant for a long winter season. (We encourage you to click the link to a previous blog post in order to read more about this lesson from God found in His beautiful creation!)
Maybe your marriage has been in a winter season where you’re wondering if there is any life left in it. We must do the work of the vinedresser and prepare our hearts as best we can for continued growth, but we must remember it is God alone who causes the growth. He is faithful. All marriages must face winter season. Some are colder and more dreary than others, but those harsh winters make the beauty of Spring that much more appreciated.
In what ways are you enjoying Spring in your relationship? Have you experienced the Winter season as well? How did it strengthen and grow your relationship?
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This is post #14 in the challenge to post everyday in April.
The Romantic Vineyard 
I’m so happy you explained “Bud Break,” Deb, because as a native Angeleno, I had NO idea what you were talking about. I always joke that Los Angeles has two seasons: spring and summer. Maybe we have fall sometimes but in 37 years I’ve seen very few winters. My marriage is alot like Los Angeles, we spring and we have summer but I am so fortunate not to have experienced winter. We went through a pretty fantastic 12-week marital counseling with our church 10 years ago and it was so thorough that we knew how to address almost every challenge that has come our way (from finances to infertility). We are fortunate. There’s no doubt about that.
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Fawn,
That’s quite a marriage counseling session to have provided you with so much wisdom. Great for you and your marriage! I can relate to not having the seasons–I’m a native Floridian! We have summer and spring too. The only way I know about Bud Break is because I’ve looked it up on the Internet. Haha! Now the secret’s out!
You are blessed indeed!
Blessings,
Debi
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