A Marriage Miracle

Posted on September 19, 2013 by Debi Walter
Our Ashley and her two precious girls-Bristol and Willow (Vito not pictured) :-)

Our Ashley and her two precious girls-Bristol and Willow (Vito not pictured) 🙂

We are in waiting mode–our son and daughter-in-love are expecting their 3rd baby any day. We have had their two adorable girls for a couple of days so Ashley can rest. Although this is difficult even without the daily responsibilities of motherhood. She is due on the 22nd, but has been having contractions for a couple of weeks making it nearly impossible to rest. So we are doing what we can to make her wait easier. (As a result we may not post as often as we normally do. We have pages to color, Polly Pockets to play with, and pool time to enjoy before the warm weather ceases.)

This has caused us to think about all the stories couples have about their babies being born. Each child comes into this world the same way, but never with the same experience. All are unique.

But there’s nothing more amazing than your very first baby.

Realizing that your love has created life is miraculous and wonderful. Looking at our baby boy in 1982 was like looking at a little person half Tom and half me, and he was beautiful in our eyes.

Tom with Jason 1982

Tom with Jason 1982

We felt closer to each other and to the Lord than we ever had before when we became parents for the first time.

Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD,
the fruit of the womb a reward.
(Psalm 127:3 ESV)

Our son was ten days early and was an easy delivery with no medication needed. Twenty-two months later our first daughter arrived, but she was ten days late. After twelve hours of exhausting labor we found out she was breech making delivery impossible.  I had to have an emergency C-section. Then, two years later we were surprised and blessed with the birth of our second daughter/third baby who was a scheduled C-section. All experiences were different and couldn’t be predicted. Each pregnancy required a dependence on God in a way nothing else had. We had no control over when or how our baby would be born. We were forced to wait, when waiting was the last thing we wanted to do.

Tom and I have talked often about those days so many years ago. It seems like a different life, things were so different as our family was growing. We were in the throes of change which effected the dynamics of our family–but never forgot that each baby is a marriage miracle.

The only pic of me pregnant with Jason. Things were different then.

The only pic of me pregnant with Jason. Things were different then.

So if you’re in this season of life where your family is ever expanding, enjoy every moment! You will recall this season decades from now and remember how God was caring for you every step of the way. This is your story–the one your children will love to hear you talk about when they’re having children of their own–who will be your grandchildren.

So what is your story? With how many children has God rewarded you? How did God help you trust Him more as you waited with great anticipation?

Let’s glorify His goodness to us in allowing us the privilege of raising the next generation of those who will worship Him. 

Posted in Grandparenting, Open Nest, Parenting, Seasons of Life | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Romance In Marriage–The Eyes Have It!

Posted on September 18, 2013 by Debi Walter
Photo Credit: magforwomen.com

Photo Credit: magforwomen.com

Today we’ve posted on the Engaged Marriage blog about the importance of romance in marriage, and it’s most likely not what you think. But first we want to announce the winner in our “Wives Of The Bible” giveaway. Thanks to everyone who took part and for sharing about this excellent book with your Facebook friends as well. I know Jolene appreciates it. And our winner is:

~ Rebecca ~

For those who didn’t win, you can buy a copy of this excellent book by clicking here.

And now for today’s post titled, Romance In Marriage, It’s Easier Than You Think

You can always spot those couples who enjoy a romantic relationship. They’re the ones who sit close together in restaurants as they talk quietly with their eyes intently focused on each other. They’re the ones who have a sparkle in their voice when they speak of their spouse. And they are the ones you know enjoy being together just by the way they look when you see them.

How do they do it? What makes their marriage so attractive, while other couples seem to be bored?

The answer is easier than you might expect. (continue reading at Engaged Marriage)

Posted in Blog Love, Christian Marriage, Contests, Growing Strong Marriages, Guest Post, Romance in Marriage, Wives | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Wives Of The Bible Book Review And Giveaway

Posted on September 16, 2013 by Debi Walter

ebook cover

I have the privilege of reviewing a new book being released today. It’s titled, Wives Of The Bible, and includes 25 lessons from women who’s stories are told in the Bible for our benefit. Jolene Engle does an excellent job of identifying characteristics of each wife that most of us can relate to at one point in our lives or another. It is easy to read and a pleasure to discover life-changing lessons from these women who lived long ago.

Jolene is offering a free ebook to our readers. All you have to do to enter is watch the following book trailer and tell us by commenting what the last photo shows in the video. That’s it–You’ll be entered for our random drawing. The winner will be announced on Wednesday, so don’t delay. Share this post on your FB page for an additional chance to win. Simply mention in your comment that you also shared it on FB, and that will give you two entries into the drawing. 🙂 This book, which will be available in paperback soon, would make a great Christmas gift for all your friends and family members who are married or engaged.

Posted in Blog Love, Christian Marriage, Contests, Growing Strong Marriages, Wives | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 16 Comments

Happy Hour

Posted on September 13, 2013 by Debi Walter

happy_hour_logo_cropped2

This week we want to share with you a very special marriage blog. It’s called Happy Wives Club and is hosted by Fawn Weaver. She started her site with one goal in mind. Here’s what she has to say:

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Happy Wives Club® is an upbeat blog dedicated to positively changing the tone about marriage around the world. I am on a mission to find 1 million women, like me, who are living their happily ever after. I’m so excited to meet you!

You can find Happy Wives Club on Facebook, Twitter, and on Pinterest. Won’t you join the challenge to show the world there are lots of happy wives out there! Add your name to the growing list by clicking below. Then scroll down to see a video recently produced by one of the many Happy Wives Club members.

Click to Sign Up.

Click to Sign Up.

Posted in Blog Love, Christian Marriage, Happy Hour, Wives | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Tom’s Letter To His Newlywed Self – Age 24

Posted on September 13, 2013 by Tom Walter
Photo Credit: provisionhouse.org

Photo Credit: provisionhouse.org

Going along with our focus from yesterday, I, (Tom), wanted a turn to write a letter to myself when we were first married from the vantage point of today, 34 years later.

Dear Tom,

I hear congratulations are in order. You say you’ve found the woman of your dreams–the one who’s perfect for you, but little do you know just how precious a gift you’ve been given. You see it’s hard to imagine that you can love her more than you do right now, but the next 34 years will only prove a deeper, more intense, more profound love.

There will be areas in your life, things you have struggled with for years, that won’t just go away because you’re married. Debi will be a instrument in God’s hand to help you change and grow. She will be a joy to you in many ways and will complete and reflect you.

It’s imperative that you be honest with your wife in all things. Let her know the real you. Be vulnerable for the sake of sharing everything–your joys, your dreams, your fears, your failures, your weaknesses and your strengths.

Give and give and give! Be generous. Care for your wife sacrificially. It’s easy to say you would give your life in the case of danger to protect her, but you must be willing to lay down your life unselfishly, daily in the little things that don’t cause you physical harm, but are just as hard to do.

If a decision doesn’t have to be made right away, then wait. There is much wisdom to be discovered as you wait on the Lord to help you make important decisions.

You are a good communicator, at least you are by your standards. But you will soon discover that Debi communicates in an entirely different way from you. You might be tempted to think she’s crazy with all her details, but she isn’t. You will learn from each other how to ask good questions and grow in understanding one another by listening more fully. When you are out of words, she’ll have plenty leftover….hang in there. As Christ loves and cares for His church, so you must love and care for your wife. He alone can teach how this is done. Pray for your marriage, your wife, your children and the Lord will tell the way in which you are to walk.

The road ahead will be marked with difficulty and unexpected trouble, but God is your help and strength. He knows you like no other and loves you more that you realize.

Your children will learn more by watching than they will by listening. Be present for them and for your wife. In other words, be all there. Don’t let the distractions of your to-do list or your I-want list rob you of the present blessing taking place in your daily life. Pay attention and give your family the best you have not what’s leftover.

Purpose to grow spiritually by being committed to the local church. Seek out friends whom you respect and ask them good questions. Learn from them so your own marriage will benefit. This is what life in the kingdom of God is meant to be. Each member gleaning from each other as needs are presented.

“Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth.” – Proverbs 5:18 ESV

Remember this one verse and allow your joy to ever increase and overflow in thanksgiving to God for what He has done. He will be faithful to you even when you aren’t. And He will teach you how to grow stronger as a man, a husband, a father, an employee, and a friend. Enjoy the process–it’s all good!

Sincerely,

Tom Walter, age 59

I challenge you to consider what you would say to your newlywed self. If you choose to write such a letter, won’t you share it with us by commenting or linking your blog to this post? Let’s help newlyweds today by sharing with them what we would say to ourselves.

Paul, with The Generous Husband shares his letter with his newlywed self.

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Growing Strong Marriages, Husbands | Tagged , , , , | 9 Comments

A Letter To My Newlywed Self – Age 19

Posted on September 12, 2013 by Debi Walter
Photo Credit: todaysadmin.com

Photo Credit: todaysadmin.com

I was thinking recently about the whole idea of reflecting on what I would say to my 21 year old self from the vantage point of today. It made me wonder what I would say to my newlywed self about love, romance and marriage. Here’s my letter I’ve written to Debi Gray Walter, age 19 (my age when Tom and I were married in 1979.)

Dear Debi,

I know you are afraid of all the changes about to take place in your life–moving away from all that is familiar to embrace a new life with Tom. Having only dated for the past 8 months, it’s to be expected that you’re nervous. But God has given you everything you need to be the wife He has called you to be. There will be days ahead of loneliness and uncertainty, but God is going to use this time to draw you and Tom closer together.

You may think you know Tom, but the years ahead are going to reveal how much you don’t really know him. And he will soon discover that he doesn’t really know you either. Your romantic ideal will be tested because true love isn’t based on your ideals, but on reality. God has chosen Tom to be the one with whom you’ll share all of life–the good, the challenging and the heart-breaking moments. Be brutally honest and self-disclosing. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you into all Truth. Even when the truth you are discovering about your heart and Tom’s heart tempts you to despair.

God hasn’t brought you and Tom together to live a perfect life. He has brought you together to help you grow more in your relationship to each other and to God. As iron sharpens iron, so too, will your husband sharpen you.

Don’t neglect your relationship with the Lord. Allow Him to be the One you depend upon for all things. Your husband was never meant to be your Savior. He is your companion and the One with whom you will walk side-by-side closer to the Throne of Grace as each year passes, but only God can fill the role of Savior.

Children are going to attempt to put a wedge between you. Your time will be consumed with training the next generation, but don’t love them more than Tom. Be always conscious that your marriage is primary and lasts your entire lifetime, while the throes of parenting lasts only for 20 – 30 years. Be diligent to keep the home fires burning so that when your kids are grown you will have a strong friendship to support the changing season.

Seek others who can give you godly counsel as to how to be the best wife you can be. Read great books on marriage. Spend time praying for Tom daily. Do all you can to resist the temptation to hide your motives, your fears and your failures. Tom needs to know the real you, not the one you want him to see. Don’t worry so much about outward appearance, but focus on the heart. Let Tom teach you how to be a servant who doesn’t need the accolades of men.

You may not realize it now, but Tom will become a deep source of wisdom in your life. Don’t waste time second-guessing his leadership, but trust his ability to hear God. You may think he’s the man of your dreams, but you will discover he is much better than anything you could have ever dreamed or hoped for.

Most of all, don’t measure your marriage by the marriages of others. Love is a choice, not a feeling. Commit to love Tom more everyday regardless of how you feel, and find creative ways to express it. Be uninhibited and unashamed in your showing your love to him. Let your yes be YES, as often as you are able.

Enjoy your marriage and remember above all that it is a reflection of Christ’s love for the church. Every choice you make is meant to glorify God. Keep this as your focus, and it will enable you to do and say things that will build your marriage, instead of saying things that will tear it down.

Let God’s Word dwell in your heart richly. It has the power to lead you and guide you in your daily choices in a way nothing else can. It is the best marriage manual you will ever read. Heed it’s wisdom above all other earthly wisdom.

Most of all–delight yourself in the gift of marriage. Have fun and share what you discover with others!

If you do these things, you will be greatly blessed.

Sincerely,

Debi Gray Walter, age 54

I challenge you to consider what you would say to your newlywed self. If you choose to write such a letter, won’t you share it with us by commenting or linking your blog to this post? Let’s help newlyweds today by sharing with them what we would say to ourselves.

J, with Hot, Holy and Humorous shares her letter to her newlywed self.

Kate, with One Flesh Marriage shares her letter to her newlywed self.

Posted in Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages, Newlyweds, Priorities, Seasons of Life, Testimonies, The Gospel & Marriage | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 16 Comments

Create Hump Day Traditions

Posted on September 11, 2013 by Debi Walter
Photo Credit: Photo Bucket

Photo Credit: Photo Bucket

Haha! I absolutely love most of Geico’s commercials. Their writing team thinks out of the box and always makes me laugh. One of my favorites is the little pig squealing, “Wee, wee, wee,” all the way home. But their newest one is even better. See for yourself:

So it made me think about ways to celebrate Hump Day in our marriage. Of course, there’s the obvious–make time for sex. 🙂 But what if we thought of even more weekly traditions to make this a day to look forward to? I’ll start a list and see if you can’t come up with more.

Hump Day Ideas:

They say once you reach the middle of the week it’s all downhill to the weekend.

  • Go sledding or sliding at a park or on a swimming pool slide.
  • Watch a hump back whale special on DVD. Amazing creatures!
  • Fix eggs for dinner in honor of Humpty Dumpty.
  • Play Chutes and Ladders with your kids.
  • Listen to Engelbert Humperdinck music, if you like him.
  • Make your spouse a special hump day lunch – include egg salad sandwich with hum(p)mus dip and Mounds candy bar for dessert.
  • ____________________________ Your turn. What ideas can you come up with?

 

Posted in Christian Marriage, Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, humor, Sexual Intimacy | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

A Secret Wives Would Do Well To Know

Posted on September 10, 2013 by Debi Walter

Tom

Yesterday we shared with you Kate Aldrich’s post titled, Emotional Alphabet. Well, in order to challenge the wives in the same way we’ve challenged the husbands, we want to share with you Brad’s post titled, Emotional Foreplay.

Take a moment to click over and read it, then come back and hear how this has played out in our marriage.

If you could contrast a major difference between Tom and me, it would be Tom is patient and I am not. In our early years asking me to give Tom emotional foreplay was nearly impossible as I rarely paused long enough for a breath, let alone give Tom the time he needed to process an answer to a question regarding his feelings.

Brad is right, men have feelings–deep feelings, but getting them to express them takes patience and skill. Most times Tom struggles to find the words to adequately express what he’s feeling. But I can see the weight of his emotion in his eyes. In our early years I was quick to put words in his mouth in an effort to help him say what I thought he wanted to say. This is arrogantly wrong to do. How could I know what Tom was feeling?

You want to know my secret for discovering what Tom is feeling? I listen to the comments he makes under his breath when he thinks no one is listening. He often thinks out loud, and if I’m privy to hear it, I’ll discover what questions to ask in an effort to help him share what’s on his mind and heart.

Every husband is different and has unique ways of hinting to what they’re feeling. The understanding wife will make it a regular practice to study her husband. If you’ve tried without success, may I encourage you to pray about it? Ask God to help you help your husband in this way.

Foreplay is a gift from God to help a husband prepare his wife for the most intimate of physical expressions–making love. In a similar way, a wife can give her husband emotional foreplay to help him communicate in a more vulnerable way than he’s used to. And it’s all good!

In what ways have you discovered to help your husband share his feelings with you?

Posted in Blog Love, Christian Marriage, communication, Growing Strong Marriages | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

A Secret All Husbands Would Do Well To Know

Posted on September 9, 2013 by Debi Walter

I was going through older blog posts from some of my favorite marriage bloggers when I found a gem. It’s an article by Kate with One Flesh Marriage, that she wrote in March of 2012 titled, Emotional Alphabet. She shares the secret of helping our marriage grow more intimate as the years pass, and I offer a hearty AMEN to everything she said!

Please take a moment to click over and read it, and then come back to read how this truth has played out in our marriage. You may discover a new secret, or be affirmed about something you’re already doing.

Did you read her article? Wasn’t it excellent?

Now for how Tom has learned to do this in our marriage. From the beginning I always knew Tom loved me, but he didn’t understand me. I was overly-sensitive and would cry at the drop of a hat. Okay, maybe not that, but I have been known to cry watching Kleenex commercials. <sigh> Most times Tom couldn’t relate, but he always wanted to. He wanted to be there for me to comfort me no matter how silly the circumstances were that were causing me grief.

Fast forward to a few years ago when we were standing in the lobby of our church talking with a dear friend. He asked me a question that evoked deep emotions that I didn’t expect. I couldn’t talk as I was trying to hold back the explosion of tears when Tom said the most amazing thing–at least it was to me. He said, “Give her minute. She’ll be okay and gain her composure enough to tell you what she’s thinking.”

I know this sounds like such a small thing. Especially if you’re the husband who has never understood your wife’s emotions. And it can also be the other way around. We’ve counseled with couples where the husband was more emotional than the wife, which is actually a lot more difficult because it is so unusual.

But in that moment I realized how much Tom really knew me.

He understood the process I went through in dealing with deep emotion. I felt cared for and deeply loved. And no one was more surprised than Tom to hear me say this, for it wasn’t something where he took a class in to become a better husband. It was simply loving and caring for me in the only way he knew to do–letting me express myself in the way I needed to in the moment.

How well do you know your wife? Or how good are you at expressing your heart-felt emotions to your husband? Is it awkward? Do you feel that he doesn’t care to know? As a husband do you really not care? Are you more comfortable letting her get this need fulfilled through her girlfriends? Sadly, this is what our culture elevates as normal. You’ve most likely seen episodes of Everybody Loves Raymond where his wife Debra constantly laments the fact that Ray doesn’t care about her emotional needs. He only has two things on his mind–sports and sex. And spends all his time trying to get both as often as possible.

There’s nothing wrong with sex or sports! God created sex and sports are our country’s favorite past time. But there is nothing that can compete with the intimacy that comes from connecting on a level where both a husband and wife are vulnerable with each other, yet safe.

We encourage you to work on understanding your wife’s emotional alphabet. She most likely uses words as hints all day long. Next time, pay attention and ask her how that made her feel? Then, be a gentleman and listen. You might just realize what an amazing gift God has given you in your wife.

Posted in Blog Love, Christian Marriage, communication, Growing Strong Marriages, Testimonies | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

Happy Hour

Posted on September 6, 2013 by Debi Walter

happy_hour_logo_cropped2

It’s time for our Specials Of The Week. We couldn’t choose just one blog to feature because there are just too many great posts to share. We hope you’ll spend some time this weekend reading these posts. You’re marriage will thank you! Have a great weekend!

Hot, Holy and Humorous

Intimacy In Marriage

Journey To Surrender

  • Changing Seasons – It’s great to discuss this part of marriage. If we do we’ll be more prepared to face them together as they come.

The Generous Wife

  • Hello – Simple advice we should all heed.
  • The Good And Bad Of Holidays – Yes, it will be here before we know it. Good to start planning how to make the best of it now. And be sure to check out the links Lori provides at the bottom. Some really good ones with this post!

The Generous Husband

  • Getting Help – Paul is asking what you think of this idea, and if you’ve had any experience with on-line marriage help.
Posted in Blog Love, Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages, Happy Hour, Open Nest, Seasons of Life, Sexual Intimacy | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Looking…in All the Wrong Places

Posted on September 6, 2013 by Debi Walter

Today we want to share with you the following blog post from our dear friend, Sheree Phillips. Her post goes well with our recent post about getting upset with your spouse over things that don’t matter. Let us know what you think!

shereesmusings's avatarFaith Rising

As I’ve been talking about sadness this week, several people have contacted me saying the thing that most tempts them to be sad is trouble in their relationships:

  • Marital strife, disappointment or shame due to a spouse’s sin
  • Lonely years of unplanned singleness
  • Spiritually passive teens
  • Misunderstanding in a friendship; or no close friendships at all
  • Unresolved extended family tension or unmet expectations
  • In-law challenges
  • Hurtful words or actions from co-workers
  • Spiteful adult siblings

I agree with author Paul Tripp who calls relationships “a mess….”

In my life, the problem is when I think the solution is for someone else to change. Take this morning, for instance. Benny and I had a tif over a decision he made some months ago that has affected me in ways he didn’t anticipate. As the consequences of that decision have become clearer to us both, and especially to me, the temptation is to…

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Posted in Christian Marriage | Comments Off on Looking…in All the Wrong Places

Two Words That Change Everything

Posted on September 5, 2013 by Debi Walter
Photo Credit: sundijo.com

Photo Credit: sundijo.com

I’m reading through the One Year Bible this year, and the last book I read was Job. Now I’m about half way through Ecclesiastes, and what a contrast! The first book contains the story of a man who seemingly did everything right yet his world came crashing down all around him–and it all happened in one day! In the midst of such suffering I was struck by his attitude…

And he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.”
(Job 1:21 ESV)

Then when the author of Ecclesiastes, believed to be King Solomon, came to the end of his privileged and successful life, he was filled with cynicism. He declared…

I have seen everything that is done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and a striving after wind.
(Ecclesiastes 1:14 ESV)

These two perspectives can be present in any marriage. You may be facing trouble and difficulty, yet see God’s hand leading you through it. Or you may be like Solomon and wonder if any of it matters at all shaking your fist at God while asking why?

What is the point anyway? We all face trouble. We all get discouraged. We all have doubts if the changes we’re hoping and praying for will ever come. Marriage is hard work. We fight. We disagree. We forget to explain ourselves more completely to where understanding takes place. We have financial decisions that seem impossible to make. We have days where life seems too hard. We’d rather get in the car and drive until the trouble dissipates, only to discover that the trouble has followed us.

I have found myself relating to the writings of Ecclesiastes. Have you? Do you wonder if any of what we do day in and day out matters?

There are two words that change everything, and David used these two words often. I’ve always loved how he was able to honestly pour his heart out to God. He shared his doubts, his fears, his questions and his struggles. And he even sinned greatly against the God he proclaimed to love. Yet, through it all he always came back to the reason it all mattered. Those two words are–But God!

Let’s listen in on a couple of his prayers:

O LORD, how many are my foes!
Many are rising against me;
many are saying of my soul,
there is no salvation for him in God. Selah
But you, O LORD, are a shield about me,
my glory, and the lifter of my head.
I cried aloud to the LORD,
and he answered me from his holy hill. Selah
(Psalm 3:1-4 ESV)

O Lord, all my longing is before you;
my sighing is not hidden from you.
My heart throbs; my strength fails me,
and the light of my eyes—it also has gone from me.
My friends and companions stand aloof from my plague,
and my nearest kin stand far off.
Those who seek my life lay their snares;
those who seek my hurt speak of ruin
and meditate treachery all day long.
But I am like a deaf man; I do not hear,
like a mute man who does not open his mouth.
I have become like a man who does not hear,
and in whose mouth are no rebukes.
But for you, O LORD, do I wait;
it is you, O Lord my God, who will answer.
For I said, “Only let them not rejoice over me,
who boast against me when my foot slips!”
(Psalm 38:9-16 ESV)

In what ways are you waiting on God to answer the cries of your heart?

Won’t you share your request with us so we can together pray for God to deliver you? He hears our cries, and it is He alone who is mighty to save. Do you believe this? Or have you forgotten in the midst of the pain. We want to remind you of the Truth of the Gospel. Christ came to save us from ourselves. He came that we might have eternal life. And He desires to make your marriage one that glorifies Him no matter what you are currently facing.

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Conflict, Difficulty, Growing Strong Marriages, The Gospel & Marriage, Troubled Marriage | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

I’m Right and You’re Wrong–So There!

Posted on September 2, 2013 by Debi Walter

We had a conversation recently with some friends about our tendency to notice every little error our spouse says when sharing a story. As we discussed this we all realized that we do this way too often. And why? After so many years together why is it necessary to point out every mistake?

For example, Tom was sharing about something he ordered at a restaurant once, and I felt compelled to correct the name of the restaurant. Why? Why did I feel the need to correct a detail that didn’t really matter when it came to the story as a whole?

I don’t know if we came up with a good reason why we do this, but we are certainly more aware of our need to change.

As we continued to talk it happened several times! Who wants to be married to someone who notices every little thing we say wrong? Of course, we want to know when it’s a detail that is important, like the date we’re scheduled to do something in the future. To overlook the date could mean you’d miss something you want to do. But when it comes to recalling a story, let’s be willing to overlook the mistakes that don’t add to or take from the telling of the story.

Let’s love our spouse and respect them enough to let them tell the story as they remember it.

Let’s use self-control and love them with their imperfections, and only correct the things which matter.

As we age we’re going to forget more and more details. If we don’t work on this now, we could end up being really crotchety old people no one wants to be around–including our spouse. May this not be us!

Did I ever tell you the story about… 🙂

Posted in Aging, Christian Marriage, communication, Conflict, Encouraging Your Spouse, Growing Strong Marriages, Seasons of Life, Showing Honor | Tagged , , , , , , | 18 Comments

A Tribute To A Lifelong Love

Posted on September 2, 2013 by Debi Walter
The Ballinger Family 2012

The Ballinger Family 2012

On Friday another dear friend of our’s went to be with the Lord. He would have been 66 this month, and he leaves behind a devoted wife, four adult children along with their spouses and many grandchildren who loved him and served him compassionately until his final breath. Steve Ballinger will be missed by everyone who knew him.

As a tribute to his lasting love for his wife and family we wanted to share the following video with you. It tells the story of another man, Fred, and his lasting love for his wife, Lorraine, of 73 years.

Let’s purpose to love our spouse and family in such a way that when we’re gone they will recall all the great times we shared together and give thanks to God.

Screen shot 2013-08-30 at 11.28.37 AM

Posted in A Marriage Flight, Aging, Christian Marriage, Seasons of Life, Testimonies, The Gospel & Marriage | Comments Off on A Tribute To A Lifelong Love

Happy Hour

Posted on August 30, 2013 by Debi Walter

happy_hour_logo_cropped2

The Special Blog of the Week we want to share with you is the Do Not Disturb blog. Justin and Megan do an excellent job of encouraging intimacy and the freedom there is to be found behind closed doors. They are thought-provoking, conversation inspiring, and down-right honest in discussing issues all married couples face at one time or another. You can follow them on Twitter @_DoNot_Disturb and on Facebook.

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Here are a few of their recent posts we want to share with you:

Finally, we want to share a need of which we’ve become aware; Scott and Bekah Crowell are dear friends who have only been married a few years. Scott has faced many physical challenges, mostly regarding his heart. It has escalated to a point where the doctors aren’t sure what is best for his care. They are working diligently to help bring him to a place of health. However, he lost his job and insurance the beginning of the year, and after two lost pregnancies they are now expecting again. Friends have set up a fundraiser to help them through this time. Empathy is putting yourself in another’s shoes. Would you consider donating if you are able. If you aren’t able, I know they would covet your prayers for them. Click the picture to access their page.

crowell

Posted in Blog Love, Christian Marriage, communication, Growing Strong Marriages, Happy Hour, Priorities, Sexual Intimacy, The Gospel & Marriage, Troubled Marriage | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Creative Dates Inspired By The Song Of Solomon – Part 5

Posted on August 30, 2013 by Debi Walter
Photo Credit: HGTV.com

Photo Credit: HGTV.com

Today we offer our final date idea as thought of while reading the most romantic book in the Bible. We hope you’ve enjoyed every one, but please know this list is in no way exhaustive. We are certain we have missed some great ideas, so we invite you to help us add to the list. How fun to practice loving and romancing our spouse in the same way King Solomon obviously loved his bride, and how she in return loved him back in a passionate way.

Date #9 – Build An Outdoor Fire Under The Stars

Set me as a seal upon your heart,
as a seal upon your arm,
for love is strong as death,
jealousy is fierce as the grave.
Its flashes are flashes of fire,
the very flame of the LORD.
Many waters cannot quench love,
neither can floods drown it.
If a man offered for love
all the wealth of his house,
he would be utterly despised.
(Song of Solomon 8:6-7 ESV)

I don’t know what it is about watching a fire crackle under an open sky that relaxes me, but it always has. I could sit for hours watching the flames, stirring the embers and enjoying quiet conversation at a slower pace. Tom lacked two merit badges from becoming an Eagle Scout–something he regrets to this day–but the knowledge he received as a result of such training is quite impressive. I feel safe with him in so many ways. He cares for me, provides for me, and helps create romantic moments like building an outdoor fire just because he knows how much I enjoy it. He knows how to do most everything well, and if he doesn’t he can usually figure out how to do it. I’m not exaggerating.

We have an outdoor fire pit in our backyard that we purchased at the end of the season one year. We’ve roasted marshmallows, invited friends over for a relaxing evening together, and welcomed many new years while seated around an outdoor fire. We’ve camped under the stars and in the morning cooked a great breakfast of bacon and eggs over the fire in a cast iron skillet. We’ve set up a romantic dinner table outside next to the fire on a cool fall evening to keep us warm. We’ve even built an amazing fire pit at our mountain cabin in Banner Elk, NC.

Barefoot Cabin Fire Pit

Barefoot Cabin Fire Pit

A fire provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic time together. One of our favorite times was reserving a fire ring at New Smyrna Beach. Having a blazing fire under the stars on the beach with the waves crashing on shore is nothing less than perfect! We’ve also enjoyed fires at several restaurant patios. This is a great way to make a dinner out even more meaningful. I guess you can tell I really love this idea. It’s why I saved this Song of Solomon date idea for last! 🙂

Building a fire is a lot like stirring the embers of passion in your marriage.

It takes effort, time and most of all a knowledge of what the fire needs to keep burning. Sometimes it’s fresh air, sometimes it’s dry wood, sometimes it simply needs someone to stir the flames. We hope the next time you see a fire burning, you’ll remember King Solomon’s wise counsel and plan to enjoy it with the wife of your youth.

What could you do today to stir the flames of passion in your marriage? 

Posted in Cheap Dates, Christian Marriage, Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, Dating Your Spouse, Fall Date Ideas, Orlando Date Ideas, Outdoor Dates, romancing your spouse, romantic date nights, Romantic Ideas, Romantic Orlando, Unique Dates | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Creative Dates Inspired By The Song Of Solomon – Part 4

Posted on August 29, 2013 by Debi Walter
Image Credit: mengelfamily.com

Image Credit: mengelfamily.com

Date #7 – Carriage Ride

King Solomon made himself a carriage
from the wood of Lebanon.
He made its posts of silver,
its back of gold, its seat of purple;
its interior was inlaid with love
by the daughters of Jerusalem.
Go out, O daughters of Zion,
and look upon King Solomon,
with the crown with which his mother crowned him
on the day of his wedding,
on the day of the gladness of his heart.
(Song of Solomon 3:9-11 ESV)

Most have seen carriage rides through the streets of historic cities. We have ridden on horse-drawn carriages a few times, and they’re always memorable. Once in New York City around Central Park; Once in Helen, GA; Once in New Orleans, LA, once in the hills of Ireland (although these were called Jaunting Carts as seen in the image above, 🙂 and one of our favorite memories was the sleigh ride in Lake Tahoe, NV. We encourage you to make a memory the next time you’re in a town that offers them. The best part of this date idea is to do it for no special occasion when your spouse would least expect it. Doing things that take a bit more effort to plan, go a long way in communicating how deep your love is for your spouse.

Banner Elk Winery located near Barefoot Cabin (see side bar for more info)

Banner Elk Winery located near Barefoot Cabin (see side bar for more info)

Date #8 – Tour A Vineyard

Come, my beloved,
let us go out into the fields
and lodge in the villages;
let us go out early to the vineyards
and see whether the vines have budded,
whether the grape blossoms have opened
and the pomegranates are in bloom.
There I will give you my love.
The mandrakes give forth fragrance,
and beside our doors are all choice fruits,
new as well as old,
which I have laid up for you, O my beloved.
(Song of Solomon 7:11-13 ESV)

There is nothing as romantic as strolling through a vineyard together when the grapes are nearly ripe for harvest. So many vineyards offer deals on wine tastings along with appetizers, and the views are usually spectacular. Many offer a great spot for a romantic picnic as well. If there are many vineyards in your area why not make a day of it? We have had the privilege of visiting vineyards in France, Napa Valley, North Carolina, Georgia, New York, Canada and of course, Florida. And our favorites are the ones where we took the time to make it a romantic time to enjoy being alone together. Try it, you may just find a new favorite on your list of date night ideas.

Tomorrow we’ll offer our final date idea from Song of Solomon. You won’t want to miss it. 🙂

Posted in Christian Marriage, Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, Dating Your Spouse, romancing your spouse, romantic date nights, Romantic Ideas, Unique Dates | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Creative Dates Inspired By The Song Of Solomon – Part 4

Creative Dates Inspired By Song of Solomon – Part 3

Posted on August 28, 2013 by Debi Walter

Garden

Date #5 – Tour A Garden

The voice of my beloved!
Behold, he comes,
leaping over the mountains,
bounding over the hills.
My beloved is like a gazelle
or a young stag.
Behold, there he stands
behind our wall,
gazing through the windows,
looking through the lattice.
My beloved speaks and says to me:
“Arise, my love, my beautiful one,
and come away,
for behold, the winter is past;
the rain is over and gone.
The flowers appear on the earth,
the time of singing has come,
and the voice of the turtledove
is heard in our land.
The fig tree ripens its figs,
and the vines are in blossom;
they give forth fragrance.
Arise, my love, my beautiful one,
and come away.
(Song of Solomon 2:8-13 ESV)

Plan an afternoon to visit a local garden. In Orlando we have Harry P. Leu Gardens that is filled with all kinds of plants indigenous to Florida. There are many areas where you can  sit and take in the scents, the sights, the sounds and the wildlife. There is even an historic house that provides tours every hour. We encourage you on this date to leave your phones tucked away, and use your camera instead. Maybe even do a photo shoot of your spouse. Let this time be for long walks and holding hands, while sharing meaningful conversation about your hopes and dreams for the future. You might even want to bring a favorite book to read aloud to each other.

rose

Date #6 – Play Hide And Go Seek

On my bed by night
I sought him whom my soul loves;
I sought him, but found him not.
I will rise now and go about the city,
in the streets and in the squares;
I will seek him whom my soul loves.
I sought him, but found him not.
The watchmen found me
as they went about in the city.
“Have you seen him whom my soul loves?”
Scarcely had I passed them
when I found him whom my soul loves.
I held him, and would not let him go
until I had brought him into my mother’s house,
and into the chamber of her who conceived me.
(Song of Solomon 3:1-4 ESV)

This date could be so much fun and with lots of variations. You could text your spouse leading them with hints where they might find you. At each place along the way you could have a little gift or surprise waiting for them to enjoy. Let each step help build the anticipation of seeing each other. You could do this one in your home, in your neighborhood, or in an historic shopping district. You could even combine this date with Date #5 in the garden. If you decide to do it at home you could allow your spouse to find pieces of your clothing during the game, and have them finally find you (not in your mother’s house or chamber), but in your own bedroom ready and waiting to be found! 😉

Posted in Christian Marriage, Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, Daytime Dates, Fun Dates, Orlando Date Ideas, romancing your spouse, romantic date nights, Romantic Ideas, Unique Dates | Comments Off on Creative Dates Inspired By Song of Solomon – Part 3

Creative Dates Inspired By Song of Solomon – Part 2

Posted on August 27, 2013 by Debi Walter

Beech

Welcome back! We are excited to share a couple of more date ideas based on the most romantic and sensual book in the Bible–The Song of Solomon.

Date #3 – Picnic With A View

While the king was on his couch,
my nard gave forth its fragrance.
My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh
that lies between my breasts.
My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms
in the vineyards of Engedi.
Behold, you are beautiful, my love;
behold, you are beautiful;
your eyes are doves.
Behold, you are beautiful, my beloved, truly delightful.
Our couch is green;
the beams of our house are cedar;
our rafters are pine.
(Song of Solomon 1:12-17 ESV)

I love the idea of making the grass of the field your couch and the surrounding trees the beams of your outdoor dining room. Depending on where you live this room will look differently. Tom and I enjoyed the most amazing location for this type of picnic while visiting Beech Mountain, NC, last August. The picture at the top was our view, and we still talk about that day and how special it was. Do some research and find a hiking trail that leads to a place with a great view. Unpack your blanket and lunch, then take in the beauty of God’s creation and most of all His pleasure in giving you the gift of each other to share such a day like this together. Be sure to take some great photos too. You most likely will still be talking about this one years from now.

Date #4 – Hiking in the Mountains

O my dove, in the clefts of the rock,
in the crannies of the cliff,
let me see your face,
let me hear your voice,
for your voice is sweet,
and your face is lovely.
Catch the foxes for us,
the little foxes
that spoil the vineyards,
for our vineyards are in blossom.”
My beloved is mine, and I am his;
he grazes among the lilies.
Until the day breathes
and the shadows flee,
turn, my beloved, be like a gazelle
or a young stag on cleft mountains.
(Song of Solomon 2:14-17 ESV)

Years ago we traveled to Sequoia National Forest in Central California. We took a trail and enjoyed walking among the giant trees that were centuries old. It was breathtaking, and I’m not talking about the steep incline. We also ended up with quite a story of our adventure in the great outdoors. I’ll post about that another time. Those who literally are willing to step out of their comfort zone to do something together that is out of the ordinary, may discover your intimacy deepens in the process. We know because we’ve done this many times. I’ve learned to trust Tom’s lead when he’s in his element, and I’m not. There’s nothing like fresh air and God’s mountains to refresh and invigorate your passion for one another. What’s the highest elevation near you? Have you ever gone there to discover the view? In Florida, we are definitely limited when it comes to elevation, but we do have the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse that offers an amazing view of the Inlet.

Believe it or not, we’re only halfway through our inspiring date ideas from King Solomon’s love journal. Who knew? 😉

Posted in Christian Marriage, Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, Dating Your Spouse, Growing Strong Marriages, Outdoor Dates, Romance in Marriage, romancing your spouse, romantic date nights, Romantic Ideas, Summer Date Ideas, Travel, Vacations | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Creative Dates Inspired By Song of Solomon – Part 2

Creative Date Ideas Inspired By The Song Of Solomon

Posted on August 26, 2013 by Debi Walter

tent

The Song of Solomon is God’s proof that He is all for intimate, sexual love expressed solely between a husband and wife. It’s His idea!

After spending the past couple of weeks talking about sexual intimacy, we thought it would be good to offer some creative date ideas based on the most romantic book in the Bible. We’ve come up with a total of 9 dates. Some will cost some money, some will be free, but all are sure to help you celebrate the love you alone share with your spouse.

Date #1 – Massage Or Spa Date

Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth!
For your love is better than wine;
your anointing oils are fragrant;
your name is oil poured out;
therefore virgins love you.
Draw me after you; let us run.
The king has brought me into his chambers.
We will exult and rejoice in you;
we will extol your love more than wine;
rightly do they love you.
(Song of Solomon 1:2-4 ESV)

There is something about a massage that helps you relax in a way nothing else can. If you have the resources, plan a day at the spa. Many offer couples massages with a detoxifying soak. We’ve even purchased them on Groupon before. If this is too much for your budget, then set up your bedroom like a spa, soft lighting, music and essential oils to soothe your spouse’s tired muscles, and hopefully excite other muscles. 😉 Make sure you have plenty of time to keep from feeling rushed. Turn off the phone and enjoy lots of kisses too! Check out Journey To Surrender’s excellent post on 10 Ways To Change Up Your Kissing Routine.

Date #2 – Day at the Beach

I am very dark, but lovely,
O daughters of Jerusalem,
like the tents of Kedar,
like the curtains of Solomon.
Do not gaze at me because I am dark,
because the sun has looked upon me.
My mother’s sons were angry with me;
they made me keeper of the vineyards,
but my own vineyard I have not kept!
Tell me, you whom my soul loves,
where you pasture your flock,
where you make it lie down at noon;
for why should I be like one who veils herself
beside the flocks of your companions?
(Song of Solomon 1:5-7 ESV)

Plan a day at the ocean, lake or some other place where you can enjoy the sun, sand and water together. Set up a nice tent if you have one and make it a real event. Plan a gourmet lunch with lots of fruit and wine if you like. Be sure to slowly rub the suntan lotion on your spouse’s body allowing them to soak in the rays as well as bask in the love that you both share.

Come back tomorrow when we’ll share more Song of Solomon Date Ideas. 🙂

Recap: Below are the links to all the posts in this series…

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Posted in Christian Marriage, Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, Dating Your Spouse, Growing Strong Marriages, Outdoor Dates, Romance in Marriage, romancing your spouse, romantic date nights, Romantic Ideas, Unique Dates | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments