Making Vacations Memorably Romantic II

Posted on July 13, 2011 by Tom and Debi

On top of Grandfather Mountain, Boone, N.C.

First of all we have found an unbelievable resource for planning a romantic getaway.  The links and ideas are so extensive, we’ve barely scratched the surface.  They have every location, idea, theme, setting for a vacation place you can imagine and probably some you’ve never thought of or heard of.  If you’re planning a romantic getaway be sure to check out this site: 1,001 Vacation Ideas.

Romance In The Mountains

What if you’re planning a vacation in the mountains?  What sort of things would make the vacation especially romantic?  Here are some ideas to consider:

  • Go to the Visitor’s Center and request a map of hiking trails.  Be sure to pack lots of water and let someone know the trail you intend to hike.  Many cell phones don’t work, and if you get lost you’ll want someone to know to come looking for you.  (the voice of experience – don’t ask why!) 🙂
  • Build an outdoor fire and roast marshmallows while talking about favorite childhood memories.  Or talk about your hopes and dreams for the future.
  • Go to the highest point late at night to watch the stars.  We did this once on the Continental Divide in Colorado, and we’ll never forget the expansive view of Heaven.  Take a blanket because it’s cold even in the summer months.
  • If this is a road trip, play the alphabet game.  Simply start with the letter “A” and use this as a springboard for your romantic memories.  For example, “A” could be a trip to Alaska you took together or a special evening you shared enjoying Apple Pie on a cold night.  Work your way through the entire alphabet.  You could change it up a bit and make the letters places you hope to go to together someday.
  • Go Fly Fishing.
  • Go boating.  Many mountain lake marinas rent boats for 1/2 or full days.
  • Pack a picnic and find a secluded spot in the woods or on a rock in the middle of a stream.  We did this once and it was spectacular watching the water flow all around us with the mountain views above.  Very romantic!
  • Go White Water Rafting.
  • Go tubing down a lazy river.
  • Go horseback riding together.
  • Take a local cooking class.
  • Go to an outdoor concert.
  • Do nothing together.  🙂
  • Watch the firefly’s come out in the cool of the evening.
  • Go mountain biking.  Many ski slopes are opened for the summer as biking trails.  The lifts take you and your bike up the mountain and then, you ride it down – on easy trails that wind their way down at a mild slope. Or if you’re daring, there are black diamond courses too.  The best part is you can stop along the way to enjoy a break together while taking in the amazing views.
  • Pick wildflowers or wild berries together.  Don’t forget the bug repellent.
  • Go off roading.  We rented a 4 x 4 truck one year and took it off road.  We found some amazingly beautiful and secluded spots we would have missed otherwise very romantic!

Do you have a romantic idea for a mountain vacation?  Be sure to share them with us.  We want The Romantic Vineyard to be a great resource for couples looking to make their vacations something special.

If you’re going to the mountains of Virginia, Western North Carolina or Tennessee check out this publication, Fun Things To Do In The Mountains, covering 35 counties.  It is published monthly and provides details on everything going on in that region.  The link is the July 2011 issue.  Enjoy!

This is Post #13 in the Ultimate Blog Challenge to post everyday in July. 

Posted in Romantic Vacation Ideas | Tagged , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Making Vacations Memorably Romantic I

Posted on July 12, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Fun in the Sun

Pack an “out of the ordinary” picnic lunch to enjoy outdoors.  If you’re the sandwich type, why not go for cold fried chicken.  If you’re the chicken type, why not make some gourmet sandwiches.  Skip the easy road and put a little thought into your special meal. Include a table cloth, romantic music, a center piece like flowers or sea shells and your favorite appetizer and drinks to enjoy while waiting to eat the main meal.  Relax, take your time, this is your day to have some fun in the sun!

Here are some more ideas to make this vacation memorably romantic:

  • Take a long walk together on the beach holding hands looking for sea shells.
  • Write a special love note in the sand.
  • Play Frisbee or beach volleyball together.
  • Play cards or a board game on a blanket in the sand.
  • Build a Sandcastle together.  Surprise your spouse by buying all the special tools to make a really sophisticated sand castle.  Don’t forget your camera for this one!
  • Plan ahead and plant a message in a bottle on the beach.  Let this be the first clue leading to a special buried treasure.  To make this happen, tell your spouse you need to work on a special project.  Give them a good book, some snacks and say you’ll be back in a while.  Sometimes the anticipation is just as romantic as the event itself.
  • Learn to surf or practice bodysurfing together.
  • Go para-sailing.
  • Fly a kite on the beach.
  • Rent a kayak for two or go bicycling together.
  • Go to the beach at night to look for shooting stars.  Do it on a full moon for even more romance.  All you need is a blanket and towels in case you go swimming in the dark.
  • If you’re away at the beach with the kids and time alone just isn’t to be found…try taking a shower together after the kiddos are asleep.  You may end up taking a shower every night!  Plan ahead and buy your spouse a romantic shower rendezvous kit complete with loofah, fragrant shower gel, massage oil, candles, and chocolates. Use soap markers to write love notes on the mirror and shower walls to each other.  Have some good “clean” fun together!

How about you?  Do you have a special way to make Fun in the Sun memorably romantic?  Share them with us by leaving a comment.  We all need inspiration to make vacations more romantic.  We can’t wait to hear from you!

This is post #12 in the Ultimate Blog Challenge to post everyday in July.

Posted in Creative Dates, Daytime Dates, Romance in Marriage, Romantic Ideas, Romantic Vacation Ideas, Summer Sizzlin' Dates, Sunrise Dates, Sunset Dates | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

Mark Your Calendar

Posted on July 11, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Summer is well underway across America.  Many are away on vacation enjoying the sunshine and the family time together.  But if you happen to be home, why not plan a special night with your spouse?  We offer a variety of Fun Holidays you most likely had no idea were even celebrated.  We hope these may spark a creative idea for a romantic, fun night to make a memory.  Or if you live in Central Florida, we offer things happen around our area this week.  Make plans now because before you know it the week will be gone.

And as a special reminder – this Tuesday is the 12th!  The day when we open our comments to hear about your “Here’s To Us” moment you’ve celebrated this past month.  As always the winner is selected from all entries received using Random.org.  This month we not only provide a free gift card to the restaurant of your choice, but we’re including a copy of Paul Tripp’s book, What Did You Expect?, currently our favorite book on marriage.

♥  Fun Dates To Celebrate  ♥

July 11th

  • National Blueberry Muffin Day – a great start to the week.  Surprise your sweetie with this treat for breakfast.
  • Free Slurpee Day at 7-11 Convenience Stores.

July 12th

  • National Pecan Pie Day – whether you call it “Pea-can” or “Peh-cahn” doesn’t change the fact that this is my favorite pie of all time!  Enjoy a slice for me, okay?

July 13th

  • National French Fries Day – only in America could we find a reason to justify indulging in this favorite fast food.  Serve some with dinner at home or go out for your favorite french fries.

July 14th

  • Bastille Day – Actually a French holiday marking the beginning of democracy in France.  Why not celebrate with a romantic French dinner.  Viva la France!

July 15th

  • Cow Appreciation Day – a great day to be thankful for all the things cows provide for us.  Start with a large glass of milk, then go out and grill up your favorite hamburger or steak.  Add some cheese for a double bonus!  Restaurants and dairy companies celebrate this day by offering specials. Watch for them, and save.

July 17th

  • Peach Ice Cream Day – what a peach of a holiday!

♥ Things To Do In Orlando ♥

CENTRAL

  • Winter Park – Popcorn Flicks In The Park – Thursday, July 14th in Central Park.  The movie, Rocky, begins at 8p.  As always the movie and the popcorn are FREE.
  • Winter Park – Music at the Casa on Sunday, July 17th from 12p – 3p.  This week’s artist is The Olde Noyse Chamber Music.  FREE.

NORTH

  • Altamonte Springs – Jazz Jams Uptown on Saturday, July 16th at Cranes Roost Park.  Food will be available for purchase from Bubbalou’s BBQ and Jersey Mike’s Subs.  The event is FREE.
  • Sanford – Alive After Five presents “Celebrate America” on Thursday, July 14th from 5p – 8p.  Cost is $7.
  • Deland – Tropical Nights in downtown Deland will take place on Friday, July 15th from 6p – 9p.  FREE.

SOUTH

  • Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts presents Santa and Mrs. Claus Summer Vacation on Saturday and Sunday, July 16th and 17th and 23rd and 24th.  This would be a fun family date night.

WEST

  • Clermont – Lakeridge Winery presents the Summer Music Series on Saturday, July 16th from 1p – 4p.   FREE.

This is post #11 in the Ultimate Blog Challenge to post everyday in July.

Posted in Date Night Ideas, Mark Your Calendars (time sensitive), Orlando Date Ideas, Romance in Marriage | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

What About Now?

Posted on July 10, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Do you have vacation plans this summer?  If so, have you included time for the two of you to make a special memory together? It’s easy to let our entire time away revolve around the children, but don’t miss the romantic opportunity a new environment provides.

We have had the privilege of traveling to many beautiful locations around the world.  Most of them in the states, some in the islands and a few places in Europe.  We usually take lots of pictures, (correction – Debi takes ALL the pictures!). We tried our hand at a music video some time ago using many of our favorite shots set to Chris Daughtry’s song, “What About Now?”

We pray on this Sunday you will make the most of your Today, your NOW, and create memories that will last a lifetime, whether you’re at home or abroad.

This is post #10 in the Ultimate Blog Challenge to post each day in July.

Posted in Christian Marriage, Music, Romantic Ideas, Travel | Tagged , , | 6 Comments

When To Let Go

Posted on July 9, 2011 by Debi Walter

Today is the first day in almost 13 years that my precious kitty is no longer with us.  He has been sick, and I’ve been putting off making the difficult, but necessary decision.

Tom doesn’t like cats, but Wizzer made it into his heart – as close as any cat ever could  – and he has helped me through this heart wrenching process.  Here is a recent conversation:

Me: I know I need to make a decision, but I’m not ready.  I don’t know if I’m able to.

Tom: I know it’s hard.  I can make the decision for you if it would help.

Me:  That’s so nice of you, but telling you to make the decision feels like I’m the one really making the decision because I know you’ll follow through.  That’s my dilemma.

Tom:  I understand.  I won’t push you.  You have to deal with this in your own heart and you’ll know when you’re ready.

That was a couple of weeks ago.  I woke up in the night shortly after this conversation tossing and turning and praying and crying.  I wanted to do what was right for him.  He is obviously miserable, and I realized at this point I was finally letting go.

The Bible says in Proverbs 12:10

10 Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast,
but the mercy of the wicked is cruel.

Without a doubt I know I have had regard for Wizzer’s life.  Now it was time to have mercy on him and let him go.

By God’s grace and Tom’s love and support we did what we had to do.  I will miss him, and this is how I will remember him – at his best as my big, fat, fluffy Bubby.  😦

This is post #9 in The Ultimate Blog Challenge to post each day in July

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Difficulty | Tagged | 7 Comments

Happy Hour

Posted on July 8, 2011 by Tom and Debi

It’s the time of week when we offer you our specials – that is other marriage blogs that offered excellent posts this week.  When you have some time – enjoy…

Encourage Your Spouse

Marriage Gems

Marriage Life

Marriage Missions International

  • When the “Honeymoon” Ends – another must read for those who are newly married (under 5 years.)  This post will help you see faulty views you may be unknowingly embracing in your relationship.

Simple Marriage

Stupendous Marriage

  • Happy 4th of July – And The Top Posts for June 2011 – We don’t know of anyone who promotes others more than Stu Gray of the Stupendous Marriage.  He originated the idea of the Top 10 Marriage Blog List.  This post offers us his top posts for June – worth checking out.  And not surprisingly 3 of the top ten posts are from guest writers.

The Generous Wife

  • Gift Giving, Oh No – We’ve all been there…needing to buy something special for our husband and drawing a blank.  Lori provides an excellent list to spark an idea.
  • Reach Out And Touch Your Husband – an excellent resource to use when you and your spouse are separated for a time.  Especially good for military wives.

The Generous Husband

Posted in Blog Love, Happy Hour | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

A Fragrant Aroma – Spontaneous Wins

Posted on July 8, 2011 by Debi Walter

Photo Credit: Crossing The Threshold blog

This past Saturday it was time to say goodbye yet again to our daughter, our son-in-law and our two grandchildren.  They had been visiting from Atlanta, (still a very strange concept for me) for over a week, and we had packed everything into the 8 days that we possibly could.

I was tired, but happy.  And now….S.A.D.

They wanted to leave at 5:30a., so we got up with them to hold Norah and Bradley one last time before the distance separated us.  Tracy cried.  I cried.  Norah simply said, “Nana, I love you!”  Bradley kicked his little foot – his way of expressing his love at two years of age.  🙂

After they pulled out of our driveway, Tom closed the garage door.  We attempted to go back to sleep.  After a couple of minutes I said, “I can’t breathe!”  The effect excessive crying always has on me.   Tom didn’t hesitate.  He replied, “Do you want to go to the beach to watch the sun rise?”

🙂

He knows me well.  In seconds we were on our way to New Smyrna Beach toting our chairs, our Bibles and our worship music.  Suddenly, I didn’t feel so sad.  I had Tom who understood my need to connect with my Savior.  He knows the beach offers my best view of eternity.  And the realization that he knows this about me without asking turned my sadness into joy.

When we arrived at the shore, the fog had rolled in.  In all my years of coming here I don’t think I’ve ever experienced fog on the beach.  It was eery.  I could hear the surf, but the waves were invisible.  As I pondered this, I realized what an encouragement it was to me on this day as I said goodbye to my precious family.  Even though I can’t see them, I know they are there.  My comfort comes from this fact and not the fog that separates us.    It also comes from having a husband who cares for me beyond my wildest dreams.  What a gift.  And more importantly, what a Savior who created Tom to be the one I would share life and love with here and now.

How well do you know your spouse?  Do you make room for them to be with the Savior?

Spontaneous wins every time, for it is in these moments when we sacrifice our plans out of deep love for our spouse!  Do something spontaneous this weekend to show you care!

This is post #8 in the Ultimate Blogging Challenge to post everyday in July.

Posted in A Fragrant Aroma, Christian Marriage, Dating Your Spouse, Growing Strong Marriages, Husbands, romancing your wife, Sunrise Dates | Tagged , , , | 7 Comments

Water Into Wine – Proverbs 9

Posted on July 7, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Proverbs 9.  If you haven’t had a chance to read it – we offer this recording as it is read aloud:

This week our city, Orlando, was most likely highlighted in every newscast in every major city around the nation and maybe even the world.  Tuesday concluded the highly publicized trial of Casey Anthony vs. The State of Florida in the alleged murder of her daughter, Caylee.  It has been a sad time in our state’s history.  Sad because the life of Caylee will never be restored; the lives of everyone involved – even the jurors – will never be the same.  Sad because sin is sin and death is death.  We watched the Defense show contempt for the Prosecution’s statements and the Prosecuting attorneys show contempt for the Defense.  At one point it became so blatant that Judge Perry threatened to call a mistrial.  What they exhibited was not wisdom.  It was foolish and unrestrained – something these attorneys know better than to do.

After six weeks of testimony on both sides of the aisle the case was finally given to the jurors to decide Casey Anthony’s final verdict .  Many who watched the jury declare “not guilty” on all counts of murder and child neglect/abuse have expressed contempt at the outcome.  The outrage was palpable on the social networks.  Anyone entering the debate felt the utter scorn and contempt for this mother now made famous by her perceived guilt and her quite foolish actions.

We have witnessed contempt on display in the courtroom, and Proverbs uses this idea in describing a scoffer.  A Scoffer is one who shows mocking contempt.

Photo Credit: Native Pilgrim blog

Chapter 9 showcases a similar scenario.  The two opposing sides are Wisdom and Folly.  After a lengthy debate in the previous 8 chapters, they are each making their final appeal to the same crowd – the simple ones.  They are calling for them to consider well the straight path on which they are walking.

“Wisdom offers life with no mention of pleasure;

folly offers pleasure with no mention of death.”

(Source: http://www.christadelphianbooks.org)

As married couples, we have a responsibility to choose wisely the way we shall live.  What looks like work actually offers the most rewards and what looks like sheer pleasure offers the worst judgment.  Thus, we cannot choose our path based on what looks right or feels good.  We must choose based on wisdom; the wise path is made clear to those who seek it.

Consider your marriage. 

How often do you think of applying wisdom to the choices you make each day?  Do you stop, think and ask?  Or do you simply follow what feels right in the moment?  How do you respond when your spouse challenges your decisions and/or actions?  Do you listen and consider their concerns or do you react?  Listen to what Proverbs says about this:

Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you;
reprove a wise man, and he will love you.
9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser;
teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

Those who are wise never stop growing in wisdom.  In fact most who are wise are the last ones to know it.  What often happens is the more we learn of wisdom the more we realize we need more of it.  It is a lifelong process and one with the greatest reward:

11 For by me your days will be multiplied,
and years will be added to your life.
12 If you are wise, you are wise for yourself;
if you scoff, you alone will bear it.

We believe if both husband and wife are committed to growing in wisdom then not only will years be added to their lives, but life will be added to the years of their marriage.

What does this look like practically in a marriage?  Here are some things to ponder:

1.  You finally have a free night with no plans:

  • Wisdom considers what is best for their marriage and family
  • Folly considers what feels good.

2.  Your spouse corrects you again on the same old thing

  • Wisdom listens and humbly makes necessary changes with God’s help.
  • Folly gets irritated by the nagging and disregards the correction.

3.  You can barely make ends meet and the bills are piling up.

  • Wisdom says NO to whatever it is you’re wanting to buy.
  • Folly puts it on credit only adding to the pile.

These are real life scenarios all marriages face.  We pray this series won’t simply be something we read and agree upon, but Truths we will apply to our every day choices.  Dave Ramsey says it best:

“For your own good, for the good of your family and your future, grow a backbone. When something is wrong, stand up and say it is wrong, and don’t back down.”  – (The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness)

and…

“A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.”

In what areas do you need to grow in wisdom?  In what areas are you experiencing growth already?  Take time to talk about these with your spouse and pursue wisdom as if your life depended on it.  In reality, it does!

This is Post #7 in the Ultimate Blogging Challenge to post every day in July!

Posted in Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages, Water Into Wine, Weekly Series | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Romantic Orlando – Lake Eola Park

Posted on July 6, 2011 by Debi Walter

Lake Eola Fountain, circa 1960

The year was 1957.  The centerpiece of Lake Eola had been a small fountain built in 1912.  That was until this year.  The small, insignificant fountain was replaced with what became know as, “The Centennial Fountain.”  And it became the unofficial symbol of Orlando from that year on.

In 2009 this beautiful fountain, although over 50 years old, was still going strong until a lightning bolt struck it, knocking the life out of it.  With Orlando’s budget cuts being the most severe in decades and a $500,000 deductible on the insurance policy, the fate of the fountain wasn’t sure.

With the public and private donors support, the mayor of the city declared that they would indeed repair the fountain, and not only repair her, but replace her fading and cracking skin with state-of-the-art technology.  Our fountain was getting a much needed facelift!  And we must say she is more beautiful than ever. (You can purchase a piece of the old fountain skin as a souvenir – click here for details!)

On the 4th of July, Tom surprised me with a night away at the Embassy Suites Hotel located across the street from the lake.  Having been born right here in The City Beautiful, Tom knows my affection for this place.  He knew I would love nothing more than to be a part of the Grand Reopening of the Lake Eola Fountain with the Independence Day Fireworks at the Fountain show.  He was right!

We got there early in order to get a good seat on the shore.  It was a beautiful day, quite comfortable in the shade, which isn’t always the case in July.  Only one problem, the clouds were gathering.  Little did we know we were in for a storm that would dump inches on the park in one short hour.  It was literally raining on our parade!

We ran to the nearby Publix, purchased a couple of umbrellas and still proceeded to get drenched from the wind-driven deluge.  I think it rained sideways!  We weren’t sure if the show would go on.  People were leaving by the droves.  But go on it did, and we were not disappointed.  Neither were the thousands of spectators who returned after dark to see the show.

This lake happens to be the place Tom took me after dinner on our first date.  I remember walking around the mile long circumference of the lake wondering if he would hold my hand.  It was a new beginning for us and the old fountain was our witness then, and we witnessed a new beginning for her on Monday.  It’s as if we’ve come full circle – like the sidewalk around the lake, and THIS time Tom held my hand!  🙂

If you are planning to visit Orlando, you must take time to see this historic landmark, or should I say “lakemark!”  It is, in my humble opinion, one of the best sites we have to offer.  There are lots of restaurants in the downtown area to which you can walk, as well as a very nice stadium-seated theater – The Plaza Cinema Theater with it’s own cafe.  There are clubs for dancing and halls for various concerts.  The newly built Amway Center offers a plethora of entertainment.  We have the Sak Comedy Club as well as The Bob Carr Performing Arts Center.

Yes, Orlando is still a small city, but it has a big heart and is eager to embrace budding love as well as strengthen long-lasting love;  We should know because she has been a witness to ours! How appropriate that one of the fireworks at the fountain was a big red heart!

For a complete history of the Lake Eola Fountain we’ve provided the following video:

This is post #6 in The Ultimate Blogging Challenge to post everyday in the month of July!

Posted in Date Night Ideas, Free Dates, Orlando Date Ideas, Outdoor Dates, Romantic Orlando, Sunset Dates | Tagged , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

The Summer of Wise Living

Posted on July 5, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Photo Credit: beliefnet.com

Wisdom.  What exactly is it?  We may not be able to define it quickly but we certainly know when someone is lacking it.

  • a teenager who foolishly follows the crowd into trouble.
  • a husband who speaks harshly to his wife in front of the children.
  • a wife who belittles her husband in front of friends.
  • an employee who isn’t honest on the phone with a customer.
  • One who won’t listen to constructive criticism.

The Bible says those who lack wisdom are foolish.  But it doesn’t leave us in our foolishness.  James 1:5 says:

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

Do you desire to grow in wisdom?  Do you long to know the right thing to say at the right time?  The Bible says we should ask God who will give it to us “generously.”  What a blessing to be given something when sought after wholeheartedly.

Photo Credit: unlimitedinfo.1x.net

We started a series a few weeks ago in our Water Into Wine posts to take one Proverb a week and read it looking for nuggets of wisdom to apply to our marriage.  What we didn’t know was God was moving on the leadership of our church to spend this summer examining this theme: Wisdom for Life.  It has been timely for us to hear the preached Word of God highlighting the very theme we’re seeking to share with you.

This past Sunday the topic addressed was Wisdom in Singleness.  It was an eye-opening message that caused us to rethink how we think, which is the goal of wisdom, right?  Benny Phillips, one of our pastors, said the following,

“Undivided devotion to Christ is what defines us, not our marital status. Do I see my friends as who they are in Christ, or if they are married or single?

Good marriages are not solely because we’re Christian – there are many good marriages who don’t acknowledge Christ at all.  What makes our marriage good is the power of the Gospel at work in our lives individually.  The purpose of a God-glorifying marriage is no different than the purpose of a God-glorifying single life;  It is ALL to glorify HIM!

Well said!  This has been the theme of The Romantic Vineyard and our marriage – to glorify God in how we live our lives and treat each other.  So, from now on we’re committing to encourage our single friends in the same way we encourage our married friends – both are called to glorify God in the season they are living.  One day we will all be in Heaven where the only marriage celebrated is our union with Christ.  This is the goal and hope of every Christian and must be what defines us.  What is it that defines you?

We pray 2011 will become our Summer of Wise Living.

This post #5 of The Ultimate Blogging Challenge to post everyday during the month of July.

Posted in Christian Marriage, Water Into Wine, Weekly Series | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on The Summer of Wise Living

Happy 4th of July

Posted on July 4, 2011 by Tom and Debi

What are your plans today?  Still not sure?  We have some romantic ideas you may want to check out in the Husbands Only and Wives Only section of the blog.  After today you may still want to plan a romantic date night.  Here are some suggestions:

 ♥ Fun Dates To Celebrate ♥

July 5th

  • National Graham Cracker Day – celebrate by making s’mores over a firepit outside after dinner.

July 6th

  • National Fried Chicken Day – Make the Colonel proud by bringing home a bucket for dinner.  Or if it’s your specialty – fry your own.  Make sure it’s finger-lickin’ good.  Better yet, let your spouse lick those fingers…

July 7th

  • Chocolate Day – since this is my favorite of all, and the number 7 is my favorite number, it seems appropriate that 7.7 is Chocolate Day.  🙂

July 8th

  • Video Game Day – Challenge your spouse to a game of your favorite video.  Decide the prizes before hand.

July 9th

  • National Sugar Cookie Day – make your own batch to enjoy together with a cup of coffee.    Heart-shaped cookies would add the special touch.

July 10th

  • National Clerihew Day – The creation of Edmund Clerihew Bentley, the clerihew consists of 4 rhyming lines of irregular length, and is autobiographical in nature, reminiscent of a eulogy. For instance: / Edmund Clerihew Bentley / Liked poems evidently / And to make them more fun / Just four lines then you’re done.  Write your own for your spouse.

♥ Things To Do In Orlando ♥

CENTRAL

  • Orlando Museum of Art presents First Thursdays from 6p – 9p.  This month’s theme is:  Message and Medium: Graphic Design & Illustration.  FREE for members, $10 for non-members.
  • Winter Park – Music at the Casa on Sunday, July 10th from 12- 3p.  FREE.
  • Winter Park – Old Fashioned 4th of July in the Park will take place in Central Park from 9 – 1p.  There will be a bicycle parade at 9 for the kids and patriotic music played live in the park.  There will also be FREE admission to the Morse Museum of Art all day.  Pack and picnic and make a day of it on the Avenue.
  • Downtown Orlando – Lake Eola 4th of July Fireworks At The Fountain.  Festivities begin at 4p.  Fireworks at 9:30p.  Come see the debut of the new Lake Eola fountain and it’s amazing makeover.  There will be souvenirs to purchase made from the remnants of the old fountain.  Own a piece of Orlando history.

NORTH

  • Mt. Dora – Art Stroll on Friday, July 8th from 6p – 8p.  FREE.

EAST

  • Cape Canaveral – Final launch of the Space Shuttle program.  Come watch the Atlantis take off on Friday, July 8th at 11:26a.  Follow this link to see great locations for viewing this historic launch.

SOUTH

WEST

  • Clermont – Lakeridge Winery presents the Summer Music Series on Saturday, July 9th from 1-4p.  The event offers live music and food and drinks for purchase.  Admission is FREE.

________________________________________________

This is Post #4 of the Ultimate Blogging Challenge to post everyday during the month of July.

Posted in Date Night Ideas, Fun Dates, Holidays, Mark Your Calendars (time sensitive) | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

A Special Week

Posted on July 3, 2011 by Debi Walter

Have you ever noticed something very familiar to you in a new a surprising way?  I just did, and it made me smile.

Guy and Dolores Germain

Today is Tom’s Mom and Step Dad’s wedding anniversary.  38 years ago they were married and have loved each other quite obviously all these years.  There is no doubt that they are the apple of each others eye.  We love it!    We recently took them to dinner at The Garlic in New Smyrna Beach and enjoyed our time so much.

Dick and Jill Walter

Tom’s Dad and Step Mom’s 36th wedding anniversary was on the 28th of June.  They live in San Diego, CA, so we don’t get to see them as much as we would like, but they are such fun, especially Jill.  She fills any room and our hearts with laughter.  Tom’s Dad is a great story teller – he shares his love of life with each conversation we have.  We will be visiting them the middle of this month and can’t wait to spend time with them.

My parent’s wedding anniversary was the 5th of July.  It would have been their 64th wedding anniversary if my Dad was still alive.  It has been 7 years, but I’ll always remember their anniversary probably as long as I live.  What a legacy of life and love we have been given, and their example is what has helped us form our lasting convictions on the importance of marriage.

What’s the new and surprising thing I noticed?  All three anniversaries fall in the same week.  So this is a very special week for us because it holds three special dates worth celebrating year after year. And we do.

Happy Anniversary Mom and Pops and Dad and Jill!  We love you and thank God for the lasting influence you’ve had on our life and marriage.  I wish I could say Happy Anniversary to my parents as well.  But I’m grateful I did while I had the chance.  It’s good to have no regrets.  As a special tribute to lasting marriages we’ve created an Anniversary Wall of Dedication on our Facebook Page.  Follow the link and be sure to add your anniversary as well as the anniversaries of the special people in your life who have influenced your marriage for good.

This is post #3 in The Ultimate Blogging Challenge to post everyday for the month of July.

Posted in Celebrations | 5 Comments

A Special Month

Posted on July 2, 2011 by Debi Walter

Photo Credit: Janice Dean with Fox News

It’s July.  The seventh month of 2011.  In this month we will celebrate:

  • Our nation’s 235th birthday
  • Tom’s Dad’s 80th birthday
  • Two of our grandchildren’s 2nd birthdays
  • My 52nd birthday.

If miles were years this month would would be my annual mile marker.  Only God knows how many years I have in this life, but it is up to me what I do with each year that passes.

Photo Credit: Another Mile Marker blog

We are grateful God led us to start our blog, and we are even more grateful for the friends we’ve made along the way.  You are a very encouraging and inspiring audience.  We have listened, laughed, planned, entertained, sympathized and prayed with many of you, and we thank God for every chance we’ve had to interact with you on-line or in person.

Why the vineyard theme?

Vineyards are as beautiful as they are productive.  The Bible talks often of them in metaphors to teach us important lessons we need to learn.  The vineyard idea came along without much forethought on our part.  Since we had the privilege of visiting Southern France in 2007 we absolutely fell in love with the beautiful French countryside.  Our logo picture is one we took on our morning walk while there.  It seemed a perfect name for our new blog devoted to “help cultivate a rich harvest of ideas to help marriages grow.”

The Romantic Vineyard has been on-line for 2 years and 8 months now.  Fairly established when it comes to the blogging world, but not so much when it comes to establishing a productive vineyard.  Vineyards are as old as recorded history.  There have always been a need for wine producing land, and the skill to know how to do it well was just as important.  Vineyards have a lifespan as do we…

The age of the vines and producing life remaining, must certainly, be given some consideration; one should not be paying full value for vines in an ageing vineyard that will need to be replanted in a few years time. However, it is important to note that, not all, old vineyards, need immediate replanting: There are some old Zinfandel vineyards in California producing great wines, and remarkably, the vines still have enough energy left to continue producing quality fruit for decades to come.

(source: How To Buy A Vineyard)

Photo Credit: db4wine.com

As in a vineyard, so it is in marriage.  By our culture’s standards we have been married a long time – 32 years,  which is long enough to have earned a voice on marriage sharing what has and hasn’t worked for us.  But we’re not the standard – Heaven Forbid!  God’s Word alone is the standard that never changes with the passing seasons, trends or preferences. Although our marriage vineyard is aging, we pray it will never cease to produce fruit that glorifies God until we take our final breath.

“The whole goal of life should not be to end it in a well–preserved package – arriving at Heaven’s Gate lightly–used and slightly worn.  Rather the goal should be to slide into Heaven, broad–sided, completely filled up and used up and exclaiming “Wow, what a ride!”  (Author unknown)

There are endless metaphors in cultivating a vineyard that we can use in helping us grow our marriages strong in order to last a lifetime.  If you are new to our site, take some time to look around in our various “rooms,” located in the top tabs of our home page.  Our main desire was and is to make The Romantic Vineyard a rich resource for couples to come back to again and again for help, hope and ideas.  The help and hope come from God, the ideas are from us and others we have come to know and respect in the process.

Ultimate Blogging Challenge Post #2

If you’re joining us from the Challenge, please be sure to sign up to receive our posts via e-mail and leave a comment.  We’ll be sure to check out your blog too!  Happy Blogging!

Posted in Purpose | Tagged | 2 Comments

S.i.z.z.l.e. Your Space

Posted on July 1, 2011 by Debi Walter

What a week its been!  We have had a house full of little people playing, running, laughing, crying, cuddling, swimming, whining and loving.  But in the midst of the noise we’ve managed to keep our bedroom free from the mess and quite the haven of much needed rest.  It has reminded me just how important it is to have a place like this when you’re busy raising a family.  Children demand our attention.  It is a 24/7 job with little to no breaks.  Having a romantic space free from clutter and distractions aids in helping both parents relax at the end of a long, hard day, and most importantly helps to keep those home fires burning a.k.a. Sizzle!

This leads us to our final challenge.

Day Five – The Letter “E”

It’s time to ENJOY your space.  Today is the day to finish all the work you’ve begun this week.  Once you’ve finished it all – spend an hour vacuuming, dusting and straightening your knick knacks.  Next, buy or make a card for your spouse inviting them to a special Evening to Enjoy your space together one night this next week.  If you have the room why not set up a table and have dinner or dessert by candlelight with soft music in the background?  If space is limited spread a nice tablecloth on your bed and enjoy a picnic of finger foods you both love.  Don’t forget to use your special lighting to create the right mood. Below is a photograph we found that would work on any dresser.

You’ve worked so hard to do this project be sure to make a big deal of the reveal to your spouse.  You may want to wrap your bedroom door with a large bow along with a romantic card. Play it up big!  After all this is the moment you’ve been waiting for!  Enjoy it!  Oh, and don’t forget to have the music playing as they open the door!  This is the best part of taking on a project like this – the results!

You’ve managed to complete a worthwhile project.  Congratulations on adding Sizzle to your Space in less than a week.  As a special treat, buy yourself a bouquet of your favorite flowers to add the finishing touch.

Thanks for taking part!  We pray you’ll have a happy and safe 4th of July weekend!

SPECIAL NOTE: For the month of July we are taking part in The Ultimate Blogging Challenge to post every day – 31 posts in all!  It should be a fun summer project and the first time we’ve ever committed to something like this.  We’ll see how it goes!  If you’re joining our blog from the challenge today’s post was number 5 in a series to Sizzle Your Space in time for the 4th of July.  Welcome – we hope you’ll come back again and again to help your marriage sizzle!

This challenge is over. Here are the links to all five posts in this series for those of you coming here for the first time.

S = Sexy or Sloppy?

I = Inclusive

ZZ = The “Zzz” Factor

L = Lighting

E = Enjoy

Posted in Romance in Marriage, romanticizing your master bedroom | 1 Comment

S.i.z.z.l.e. Your Space

Posted on June 30, 2011 by Debi Walter

Day Four – The Letter “L”

How is the Lighting in your bedroom?  There was a day when candlelight was the only option, and a good one at that!  It was cheap and very romantic.  Now we have so many choices – flourescent, incandescent (not for long though), lamps, canned lights and candles.  What options to you have in your room?

We had the privilege of visiting a very wealthy man’s home once.  As we toured the mansion, he took great delight in showing us the lighting features in the master bedroom.  He had a button for reading, a button for watching the sunset and a button for romance!  As he pushed each button the room immediately became the perfect setting for the occasion.

Not many of us can afford to have such a luxury, but there is something to be said about thinking seriously about our options.  Tom and I have dimmers on every switch in our bedroom; they are inexpensive and make any light fixture easily romantic.  And we have invested in battery operated pillar candles – a must for any serious romantic! Another fun alternative is to hang clear stringed lights from the ceiling – you may not want to keep these up all the time, but they sure would be fun for an especially romantic date night at home.  The quick peel and stick hooks will make this easy to do in any bedroom.  Hey, why not plan a Christmas in July Date Night complete with lighting and STARS! – Of course, you’ll be the star after putting such thought into the lights!  Who knows – you may just give “lights, camera, action,” a whole new flair!  For your spouse’s eyes only, of course!  🙂

Posted in Christian Marriage, Romance in Marriage, Romantic Ideas, romanticizing your master bedroom | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

S.i.z.z.l.e. Your Space

Posted on June 29, 2011 by Debi Walter

We’re at the halfway mark.  Congratulations on making it this far in our challenge.

Day Three – A Pair of “Z-Z’s”

The ZZ factor of your bedroom is very important!  How well do you sleep at night?  Today we’ll focus on beds, linens and sounds.

This is the most challenging part of the week because it requires some investment to do well.  The linens, pillows and bedding we have really are the centerpiece of the bedroom.  If the covers are frayed and the sheets are torn it effects our ability to relax.  If you are able to purchase some new items here are some things we’ve found to boost the ZZ factor of a Sizzling Space:

  • 100% cotton sheets with at least 400 thread count.  However, be aware that the higher the thread count the thicker the sheets will be.  This is good in the winter, but the summer months may make these sheets too hot.  We don’t want to sizzle – literally that is!  Our favorite set of sheets are made of Lyocell.  We purchased ours from the Sleep Number Store in the mall when they went on sale.  They aren’t cheap, but once you sleep on them you’ll understand why.  These are worth saving for, or even better, adding to your Christmas wish list!
  • Pillows – be sure to have the type of pillow best suited for your needs and support.  And have lots of them.  Nothing invites a good night’s sleep like a bed full of fluffy pillows.  And they can make it really fun to play around in too!
  • Mattress toppers – we have discovered a down mattress topper that lays on top of your mattress that is unbelievable.  It makes you feel as if you’re sleeping on a cloud, but without losing the support of a firm mattress.  They sell these as Target or on-line.
  • A Good Mattress – if you’re in need of replacing your mattress, but don’t have the money to buy a new one, pray and ask the Lord to provide.  I have heard of this kind of need being provided over and over.  God loves to meet even our practical needs, but he wants us to ask.  We recently purchased a Sleep Number Bed because of Tom’s back problems.  He is now sleeping great and waking up without his back hurting.  Yea!
  • Comforter Set – If it’s been awhile since you’ve replaced your comforter you might want to consider changing it.  This is one way to give your room a completely new and refreshing look without changing anything else.
  • Clock Radio CD player with Sound Machine – this is a good choice providing several options depending on what you’re using the music for – sleep, romance, waking in the morning.

However, even if you have limited funds there is much you can do with what you already have:

  • If your comforter is old and in need of replacing, but you can’t right now – try removing it and using only white sheets on the bed with a decorative table cloth or curtain panel folded in thirds laying across the end of the bed.  This is a high end look of some of the finest hotels. (see picture above.)
  • Torn sheets – sew up the holes and iron your sheets with spray starch.  This will add volume and stiffness to old sheets.  Also, buy an inexpensive spray can of linen spray or make your own.  Use after you make your bed each morning.

If you have made it this far you are to be congratulated.  Your bedroom is greatly increasing its Sizzle Factor.  Why not take a relaxing candle-lit bath tonight as your reward.  And don’t forget to draw a bath for your spouse too!

Two more days til you complete the Sizzle Your Space challenge.

Posted in Christian Marriage, Romance in Marriage, romanticizing your master bedroom | 3 Comments

S.i.z.z.l.e. Your Space

Posted on June 28, 2011 by Debi Walter

How did you do yesterday?  The fact that you’re back to read today’s assignment is a good sign.

Day Two – The Letter “I”

Is your space Inclusive?  In other words, have you considered what is important to your spouse when it comes to relaxing and retreating?

We have talked to couples who argue quite a bit about how to decorate the home.  One prefers one way and the other prefers something different.  How can two come together and create a space that includes the likes of both?  It may seem like a difficult task, but it doesn’t have to be.  Most likely you know what your spouse likes.  Try to incorporate some of their tastes into the space.  If they like modern and you like traditional, look for something special they would find appealing.  Our bedrooms don’t have to look like the cover of a designer’s magazine.  Our bedroom is only for US!  Whatever works for you to help you both relax is fine; in fact it’s perfect!

For years we’ve had a large wooden chest at the end of our bed.  I kept mementos of our 32 years of married life together in this one place, but there was one big problem, Tom has never liked it!  It took 32 years for me to finally clean it out, give it away and find an alternative for the space.  And you know what?  I love it!  I love not having a chest full of all that stuff in our bedroom.  Now we have an upholstered bench that is as useful as it is beautiful AND Tom loves it!

If you’re on a tight budget it pays to go to garage sales and thrift stores to find that special something.  Often times I don’t even know what I’m looking for, I just have an idea of what I want.  Walking through the aisles of a thrift store usually provides lots of ideas of items at very reasonable prices you may want to consider adding to your space.

Most of all, make this part of your bedroom decorating a surprise.  It would be fun to add this special element to the room as the finishing touch.  Don’t let your spouse know until they see it for themselves on the final day.

If you have made it this far in the challenge and you MADE YOUR BED today  – give yourself a special treat as a reward for your hard work. 

Posted in Romance in Marriage, romanticizing your master bedroom | 5 Comments

Sizzle Your Space

Posted on June 27, 2011 by Tom and Debi

A year and a half ago we offered a five week challenge on “Romanticizing Your Master Bedroom.”  We are wondering how your room is looking these days?  Have the dog days of summer crashed into your space making it stuffy and not so inviting?  Has it lost it’s sex appeal?  Does it fizzle, instead of “sizzle?”  If so, you’re going to love our focus this week.

With the 4th of July a week away, we thought it would be good to use this week to add some fresh sizzle to our space.  You know – stir those embers a bit and watch what cooks!

We will provide one challenge each day this week for you to complete.  It won’t be hard, but it will require resolve on your part to do it.  We guarantee if you do, by this time next week your space will be hot and inviting!  Are you in?  Let’s get started!

Day One – The letter “S”

Sexy or Sloppy?

Walk into your room and look at it as if you had never seen it before.  What does your room say about the importance of romance to you?  Does it look cluttered and thrown together?  Does it speak of all the other things in your life – work, children, and/or unfinished projects?  If so, take one hour today and remove all these things.  Your room should be your haven – the one place you can go to retreat together as husband and wife.  Retreating is hard to do when you’ve invited the world into your space.

The goal is to keep only those things that help you celebrate your love.  Anything that draws your attention elsewhere should be kept in another part of the house or a closet.

One more thing we are going to challenge you to do every morning this week – make your bed.  It will help your room look better immediately, and it will also motivate you to complete the day’s assignment.

So have at it!  We hope you’re freshly inspired to Sizzle Your Space.

In lieu of our Mark Your Calendar post – we want to refer you to this site for some great ideas if you’re planning a night out this week!

This challenge is over. Here are the links to all five posts in this series for those of you coming here for the first time.

S = Sexy or Sloppy?

I = Inclusive

ZZ = The “Zzz” Factor

L = Lighting

E = Enjoy

Posted in Romance in Marriage, romanticizing your master bedroom | 2 Comments

Stupendous Marriage

Posted on June 25, 2011 by Debi Walter

Two little words that mean more than first meets the eye.  I’ll try is a term we give when we aren’t sure we’ll be able to pull it off. I’ll try is what we say when invited somewhere with someone we would rather not spend time with, but don’t have a valid reason NOT to…yet.  Once another option comes up, we are quick to decline.  I’ll try can also be used when our spouse asks us to do something that is important to them, but not so much to us.

Why do we do this?

(continue reading on The Stupendous Marriage site…)

Posted in Blog Love, Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages | Comments Off on Stupendous Marriage

A Fragrant Aroma – Sleepless in Orlando

Posted on June 24, 2011 by Debi Walter

This week Tom was away for two nights on business.  Something I will never get used to.  I don’t like sleeping alone, so to counter his absence I sleep on his side of the bed.  I have found this helps me not reach over only to realize he’s not there.  It disorients me enough to where I can sleep – usually.

But not last night!

My daughter woke me after I had just fallen asleep saying she saw a bug.  We are Florida natives, but we h.a.t.e. bugs!  And Tom wasn’t here to rescue us, so she sprayed the entire room and closed the door shut. It will probably stay shut until Tom finds the dead intruder, keyword: DEAD.  It better be dead, if it’s not by chemicals, then it should be by drowning.

Two hours later I was back asleep only to hear a scratching on my bedroom door.  No, it wasn’t a scene from a horror flick tormenting my imagination – it was my cat.  He wanted out the front door because my daughter forgot to put him out due to the aforementioned “bug episode.”  Not only was he still inside, but every light was on in the house!  I put the cat out, turned off the lights and went back to Tom’s side of the bed.

Only one problem – I was wide awake!

Thankfully, we have a sleep timer on the TV, so I turned on House Hunters with the volume low and set it at 45 minutes.  It worked, that is until two hours later when I was startled awake by….nothing.  I tossed.  I turned.  Then the worst possible thing happened…

I started thinking. 

As I thought I started worrying.  I became anxious.  Which led me to pray long and hard.  I lifted to God all the thoughts that were trying to rob me in the night of my peace and rest.

It worked, this time for good.  I fell asleep and didn’t wake until the sun was shining bright outside.

Print: "Morning Light" by Carrie Graber

I only wish I felt rested – I was exhausted!  How appropriate that my devotions for that morning began with this verse from Proverbs 30:

The man declares, I am weary, O God;
I am weary, O God, and worn out.

God knows me well and drew me into my devotions by connecting to the first thing on my mind – my weariness.  I felt cared for and loved by Him.

Tom is home now and once again I can sleep.  The bugs will be killed.  The cat will be put out.  The lights will be turned off.  But most of all God will watch over us in the night as we sleep and even when we don’t.

He is with me and with you. 

Posted in A Fragrant Aroma, Wives | Tagged , | 1 Comment