He Is With You (and Me)

Posted on April 28, 2011 by Debi Walter

We are feeling the weight of emotional changes in our lives and in our daughter’s life.  So much so we don’t think we can focus on posting, at least not by giving it the thought and time The Romantic Vineyard deserves.

So, for a few days…maybe a week…we’re taking a break. 

The good news is that no matter what difficulty we may face in life – He is with you (and me).  Enjoy this video by Mandisa, and take some time to look around at previous posts or browse the various resources located in the tabs above.

We love you dearly and thank God for the privilege of getting to know you through The Romantic Vineyard.  Your encouragement has been such a means of grace to us.

Posted in Difficulty | 1 Comment

Romantic Orlando – Cheers!

Posted on April 27, 2011 by Tom and Debi

We were out recently in the Dr. Phillips area and happened upon a restaurant we had never heard of.  It was called Vines Grille & Wine Bar.  It looked nice.  There were no parking spots available, so we ended up checking our car with the free valet service.

We got to the door, perused the menu and did not expect what we saw – very expensive entrees, and everything was served a la carte.  We didn’t want to get our car out of valet so quickly, so we went inside thinking we’d get an appetizer in the lounge and afterward find a more reasonable restaurant. 🙂

When we were seated the server told us it was Happy Hour and all appetizers were 1/2 off.  Hmm.  Interesting. The aromas coming from the kitchen were enticing, and we were hungry.  The appetizers sounded great – kobe beef sliders, margarita flatbread, shish kabobs and for Tom – oysters on the half shell.  They even served crisp fried bacon. which looked amazing. We ended up thoroughly enjoying our evening.  The atmosphere was definitely high end, yet all in all we only spent about $25.  And we were full!  Not to mention the live music – this night the entertainment was in the style of Frank Sinatra – very romantic!

Fast forward to a few days ago when we were introduced to a new smart phone application called “Happy Hours.”

We’re not ones to advocate bar hopping by any means, but many fine restaurants offer nice tables in the bar side of their restaurant that feel no different than the restaurant side.  When Happy Hour is being offered customers aren’t required to order alcoholic beverages and the specials are quite reasonable.  The app even lets you sort by the type of food served.

The Happy Hours app is certainly worth checking out;  It’s free and available in most major cities across America.  In this economy going out to dinner can be the first thing omitted from a couple’s budget.  Happy Hours may help you reconsider your options.

Cheers!

Posted in Dinner Dates, Orlando Date Ideas, Romantic Orlando | Tagged | 2 Comments

Are You Defensive?

Posted on April 26, 2011 by Debi Walter

Photo Credit: bestcarsguide.com

It happens more often than not.  Drivers who must think they’ve been hired to test drive the swerving power of their vehicle.  They weave in and out of traffic as if I’m merely a harmless obstacle to dodge for fun.  I cringe when they come up on my rear bumper and change lanes at the last minute.  Sometimes I’m not sure they’ll miss, which would certainly send me spinning out of control.

I do what I can to help.

If I see them in time I move my car slightly to the opposite lane in an effort to keep them from clipping the corner of my car.

I drive defensively.  I have to, simply because there are many drivers who don’t.  They throw caution to the wind and leave me and many others shaking or angry in their path.

Driving defensively is a good thing.  It prevents many accidents and injuries.  And helps other drivers who may not be asking for help.

Marriage requires the same skill.

Two people who live together in the covenant bond of marriage are daily attempting to move along the road of life in the same direction.  If we’re not watching, when one person makes a sudden turn, we’ll be unprepared to swerve as needed in order to avoid a harmful collision.  Injury and pain can result.

I was having a difficult and emotional day recently and Tom, knowing my struggle did what he could to help. The kitchen was a mess, so he cleaned it without being asked.  In fact I wasn’t even in the room to notice right away.  But after a while, I walked in and found  everything clean and put away.  It made me smile and breathe a prayer of thanks for a man who is willing to love me even when I’m not very loving.  He in essence drove defensively around my bad attitude and helped me slow down and take notice of all the other cars on the road.  I don’t have the liberty to drive in my marriage as if what I do and say doesn’t affect those I love in a harmful way.  It does.

It hasn’t always been this way.  There have been plenty of times when I saw Tom coming with his car behind mine and rather than move over to give him room, I pressed the gas and challenged a race.  In this case, not only were there no winners, but both of us were losers.  As husbands and wives we know the buttons to push to provoke our spouse, like a dangerous race.  Are you as aware of how to avoid the danger?  It may be a simple as giving them some time alone to pray and regroup.  Or like in my case, cleaning up a messy kitchen.

Whatever the issue, we are on this journey together traveling the road God has set out for us.  We can either drive defensively helping each other avoid dangerous collisions, or challenge our spouse on every move they make.

I want to drive defensively.  It is good not only on the road, but for my marriage as well.

How about you?  Are you a defensive driver? 

Posted in Difficulty, Growing Strong Marriages | Comments Off on Are You Defensive?

Mark Your Calendar

Posted on April 25, 2011 by Debi Walter

Metro Life Church 2011

Easter Sunday was a full day for us.  It began at 7a. for our church’s 2nd annual sunrise service.  Followed by breakfast served outside in the morning light.  Our 2nd service was filled with emotion as it was our daughter’s last Sunday with us.  She and her family are moving to GA this coming weekend.

After service we had most of our family on both sides over to celebrate an Easter Feast along with an Easter Egg Hunt for the kids – 89 eggs for 6 children!  Yes, it was a bit much, especially once the sugar settled in their little tummies. Lot’s of little Tiggers running around – bouncy, bouncy, bouncy, but they’re fun, fun, fun.

Everyone is gone now, and I’m sitting at the computer contemplating the week.  We pray your Easter was filled with biblical reminders of the rich Truth of the resurrection.  It has made all the difference in our lives, our marriage, and we will never tire of proclaiming it to all who will listen.  May this week be a continued extension of the Easter message – He is Risen!

♥ Fun Dates To Celebrate ♥

26th

  • National Richter Scale Day – celebrate by watching Earthquake or any other classic earthquake movie.  Or you could go out for a milkshake.

27th

  • Morse Code Day – Here’s a great chart to use to learn this code.  Send you spouse a secret love note via Morse Code.  Then, give them a box of Dots.

28th

  • National Kiss Your Mate Day – no explanation necessary, simply enjoy!
  • Cubicle Day – if your spouse works in a cubicle – this is your chance to help them celebrate.  Pack them a “cube lunch”.  Cubed meats and cheese on a fresh salad, and be sure to include a Rubik’s Cube to play while munching away the lunch hour. They’ll be the envy of all the other cubicles.

29th

  • Arbor Day – Plant a tree together.

30th

  • Hairstyle Appreciation Day – Give yourself a new “do” and go out on the town to celebrate your new look.

May 1st

  • May Day – Celebrated the world over in various ways.  Make up your own tradition to celebrate each year.  Like play a romantic game of “Honey, May I?”  Whatever you do make it something special you both love about the Summer.

♥ This Week In Orlando ♥

CENTRAL

  • Winter Park – Whole Foods Market presents the Wine & Beer Lounge on Friday, April 29th from 6p – 9p.   Cost is $10 per person and includes food and drink samplings.
  • Winter Park – Music at the Casa on Sunday, May 1st from 12p – 3p.  This week’s featured artist is Catherine Way – Solo Harp.  FREE.
  • College Park – Taste of College Park on Thursday, April 28th from 6p – 9:30p.  Cost is $50 per person.

EAST

WEST

  • Clermont – Showcase of Citrus offers a pick it yourself grove with oranges, tangerines and grapefruit.  They’re open 7 days a week from sun up to sun down.  Check site for prices and map.
  • Winter Garden – West Orange Trail is part of the rails to trails program in Central Florida.  West Orange Trail Bikes and Blades offers bike and skate rentals by the hour or by the day.
Posted in Date Night Ideas, Mark Your Calendars (time sensitive), Orlando Date Ideas | Comments Off on Mark Your Calendar

He Is Risen!

Posted on April 24, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Posted in Celebrations, Holidays | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Happy Hour

Posted on April 22, 2011 by Tom and Debi

It is Friday afternoon – time for our “Specials of the Week,” from other marriage blogs we frequent.

The Girltalk blog

  • Heirs of Grace – part of an ongoing series on Being A Gospel Wife.  Excellent thoughts on how to apply the Gospel in marriage.

The Generous Husband

The Generous Wife

  • The Unexpected – I (Debi) love this post.  What would it be to do something totally unexpected for your spouse, for your family?  Check out Lori’s idea for this Summer.  Sounds like fun!

Journey To Surrender

Sarah Markley – The Best Days of My Life

  • Big Grace – Another great piece that reveals the heart of God towards us, which should in turn help us position our hearts towards others.

C.J.’s View From The Cheap Seats

  • A Crucifixion Narrative – Not a typical blog we would feature, as it’s not primarily marriage related, but since today is Good Friday, we felt it quite appropriate to offer this excellent post.  Where would our marriages be if it weren’t for the events which took place on Good Friday and Easter Sunday?

This is a great place to end our “Specials of the Week.”  May your Easter be filled with gratitude over our Savior’s willingness to come and live among us, and then die to set us free from the sin which so easily entangles us.  Have a blessed Easter!

Posted in Blog Love, Happy Hour | Comments Off on Happy Hour

Fragrant Aroma – Winning

Posted on April 22, 2011 by Debi Walter

Photo Credit: Firehow.com

My friends all tease me.  Even my family joins in the fun.  They say they can’t believe it happened AGAIN?!?  This is in response to the following announcement I’ve made often:

“I won!”

It’s true.  I love to enter contests just to see if I can win.  And when I think about it, I’ve won a lot!  Let’s see –

  • I helped my son enter his first writing contest when he was 8 or so.  He won a free round of golf for Tom and three friends as well as a free Father’s Day Brunch for our entire family.
  • I won a hot-air balloon ride over west Orlando including a champagne breakfast as the sun rose over the horizon.
  • I won the use of a Cadillac Catera for one month.
  • I’ve won countless gift cards and gift baskets to all kinds of places
  • I won a new kitchen from WLOQ – by far my biggest win and my favorite.  (In fact this is the reason we started doing our Here’s To Us Contest on the 12th of every month.  We have won so much, we wanted to share the fun of winning with you!)
  • I won a blue ribbon for my Apple Pie at the Orange County Fair

and my most recent win?

  • Two tickets to see Yanni perform live at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre.

Most of these wins were on the radio.  You may think I have to listen to it all the time in order to win.  But I really don’t.  I simply go to their website to see what contests they’re offering, and if any catch my interest I enter.   It’s that simple.

The reason I highlight this today is so you can be motivated to give entering contests a try.  I especially like the 10th caller contests on WLOQ.  They do them all the time, and it is simple.  They even tell you what hour they will have the contest and what the prize will be ahead of time.

Below I’ve listed some of our local radio stations for your help in checking them out:

WLOQ – 103.1

One of the best stations for contests I’ve found.

Magic 107.7

They have a variety of contests where you can build points and enter mulitple times.  Check out their website for more info.

K92FM

Orlando’s country music station.  And no, I don’t listen to this station, but I know plenty who do.  So I included them.  🙂

105.9 Sunny FM

WDBO AM580

AM 540 WFLA

Hey, when money is tight, it’s nice to have a fun alternative for a date night that doesn’t cost anything, that is, if you win!  As an added bonus, I found an article with tips on how to win radio contests.  Simply click on the picture at the top of the page.  Have fun!  And let us know if you win – We would love nothing more than to post your winnings on a special weekend post.

Posted in A Fragrant Aroma, Contests, Orlando Date Ideas | Tagged | Comments Off on Fragrant Aroma – Winning

Water Into Wine – Proverbs 2

Posted on April 21, 2011 by Tom and Debi

“For the Lord gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
he stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
he is a shield to those who walk in integrity,
guarding the paths of justice
and watching over the way of his saints.”

                                   – Proverbs 2:6-8

Wisdom, knowledge and understanding come directly from the mouth of the Lord.  If we are lacking wisdom, it is to Him we need to look.  And not only look, but ask.  He is ready and willing to give us wisdom as He did Solomon when he asked.

This verse paints a vivid picture of God anticipating our request.

Photo Credit: lukeandbri.com

Imagine a vineyard which yields a rich harvest of abundant fruit.  The vines are so heavy they nearly break from the weight.  As God walks through the vineyard, He picks the choicest clusters adding them to the barrel now brimming over with luscious grapes.  He takes them and pours them into His storehouse marked “wisdom.”  And then He waits.  He waits for us to ask.  The only cost is a life lived rightly for Him.  As we follow His commands and purpose to live our lives in a way which glorifies Him, He opens His storehouse of fruit and gives it to us.

What does this looks like practically?  It varies from marriage to marriage, but always there will be these two common denominators:

  • upright living
  • integrity.

Even when we find it difficult to live rightly, when temptation is crouching at our door, the Lord promises to be our shield.  His shield is impenetrable; it holds firm.  As we continue walking along the just path, He guards our steps.  He helps us stay the course, always watching to help us when we cry out to Him.

Are you facing difficulty in your marriage? 

Is it your desire to see God glorified in how you walk this path? 

Be assured He is ready to give you and your spouse the knowledge you need to rightly understand the perspective of the other.  He will help your communication to not only speak clearly, but to listen accurately.  As you commit to live this way, wisdom will be the result, the rich fruit God has stored up for you, for us.

After 32 years of marriage there is one thing we have learned about wisdom – it is a slow growing vine.  To watch it one never perceives growth, but take a look back 5 years.  It is from this vantage point where the change is obvious.  God is the master vine dresser.  He prunes where necessary to produce the most growth.

Whether you are in a pruning season, a growing season or finally having a chance to look back 5, 10 or 20 years, one thing is certain – the Lord Your God is watching over you! The answer you seek is stored up and waiting for you.  You simply have to ask!

Photo Credit: Miss Gobbledygook

Posted in Water Into Wine, Weekly Series | Tagged , | 1 Comment

What Is The Gospel?

Posted on April 20, 2011 by Tom Walter

And what does it have to do with my marriage?  Everything, that is if you’re a Christian.

Photo Credit: Trevin Wax

This is the week when the Gospel is front and center in the mind of every believer.  It is Easter week, and we rejoice!

B.U.T.

The Gospel is more than one week remembered at Easter.  It is the power to live the life God has called us to live, both personally and in our marriages.  What is the Gospel?  John Piper tells us precisely what it is in 6 minutes.  Take time to listen and see if you remember:

C.J. Mahaney says we need to be reminded of the Gospel daily because we daily forget.  How true. So this week we remind you to think long and hard about how the Gospel has affected your life and your marriage.  And on Easter Sunday give thanks to God who has so generously made a way for your salvation when there was no way.

Apart from Christ we would have no hope for a strong marriage.  The Good News is Christ has indeed come and therefore we have HOPE.

Posted in Celebrations, Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages, Holidays | Tagged , , | Comments Off on What Is The Gospel?

Romantic Orlando – New Smyrna Beach Firerings

Posted on April 19, 2011 by Debi Walter

Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is my favorite beach.  And since I’m an Orlando native – I suppose we can officially call it the local favorite.  However, ALL the east coast beaches are simply wonderful.  New Smyrna just happens to be the closest to our house, and the fact that my daughter-in-love is from NSB helps too.  🙂 We timed it last night, and we had our feet in the sand in less than an hour.

The occasion?  Our son’s 29th birthday dinner – he chose for all of us to reserve a Firering on the beach, pack our dinner and enjoy the sunset/full moon rising from the shore.  It was a memory worth all the effort.

After all the shopping, cooking, packing, loading, driving and then, unloading of food, chairs, tables, firewood, blankets, bottles, and sand toys – we had the best night!

As we gathered around the fire hand in hand thanking God for the gift of the beach, our family and the opportunity to all be together, I realized once again, how blessed we are.  With all the changes about to take place with our daughter moving to Georgia in less than two weeks, this was simply an evening to reflect on the goodness of God and His amazing blessings in our lives.  It doesn’t matter how many miles separate us – God has knit our hearts together for a lifetime, and one day there will be no more sorrows, no more goodbyes.

If you love to snuggle up by the fire – you may want to reserve your own evening by the ocean.  Volusia County offers seven fire pits along the beach which are free to use, but restrictions apply:

Bonfire Ring Rules & Reservations

1.      You must be 18 year’s old to reserve a fire ring. A copy of a driver’s license is required.

2.      All debris (trash, unburned wood, etc) must be removed at the conclusion of the event. Officers will inspect the sights each night and violators will be contacted required to return to the site to remove debris. The Beach Patrol reserves the right to deny future permits to persons who do not comply.

3.      All fires must be extinguished with water no later than 11PM.

4.      No plastic or foam may be used as fuel.

5.      No more than one weekend reservation date at the same fire ring per month will be permitted.

6.      Beach Patrol can be contacted after hours by calling the dispatch (386) 248-1777, then press (1).

7.   Bonfire reservations can be made by email or phone (386)-239-6414.

New Smyrna Firering Locations

Posted in Cheap Dates, Free Dates, Outdoor Dates, romantic date nights, Romantic Orlando, Sunset Dates, Winter Date Ideas | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

Mark Your Calendar

Posted on April 18, 2011 by Debi Walter

Do you remember your first car?  I sure do!  It was a yellow 1973 VW bug, which I lovingly named “Sunny.”  He was bright yellow, had no a/c in this hot, Florida sun, but I loved bee-bopping around Orlando in that car.  He was M.I.N.E.  Until Tom decided it was time to trade him in on another newer car with air-conditioning.  You would think I would have been thrilled, but I cried all the way to the dealership.  And this was the last time I saw Sunny.

That is…until a couple of weeks ago.

I was stopped at a traffic light and noticed a 73 yellow VW bug right there next to me.  I smiled wondering if it could possibly be him.  You may or may not be surprised to hear that I actually waited for the Bug to go ahead of me in order to get a good look at his tail lights.  I could always tell by the way the tail lights looked.

I didn’t expect to see this…

W.H.A.T.?!

My first car had now been classified an antique!  I didn’t even notice the tail lights! I suddenly felt old.  If this car – a mere 38 years old – was classified an antique, what did this make me?  For one thing, it made me glad people aren’t labeled with pale blue license tags…

Wait a minute!  My Social Security card is pale blue – oh no!  🙂

Seriously, do you remember your first car?  Why not spend an evening this week reminiscing those good times. Tom and I have enjoyed many a night remembering our first and our favorite cars.  Enjoy!!

♥ Fun Dates To Celebrate ♥

18th

  • National Wear Your Pajamas To Work Day – for those of you who work from home – this may be your normal.  If it’s not possible to do this, plan to change back into your pj’s as soon as you get home.

19th

  • National Garlic Day – plan an Italian night in tribute to this tasty bulb.

20th

  • National Look Alike Day – this one could be fun to go out on the town together dressed in color coordinated outfits.  Or if you look like a famous person, dress the part and see who you can fool.
  • National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day – bake your cake and eat it too!

21st

  • National Chocolate Covered Cashew Day
  • Kindergaten Day – Spend the evening coloring together.  Better yet…finger paint using pudding – on each other!
  • Happy Birthday to our Son day!  Yes, this is the day when we became parents – 29 years ago.  We love you, Jason!

22nd

  • Good Friday – spend an evening at your local church thanking God for the gift of Christ, and His willingness to die, even on a Cross for our sins!
  • Earth Day – Have a picnic, but be sure to pick up your trash!

23rd

  • National Picnic Day – Ah!  If you missed your chance to do this yesterday, you get a second chance….which also happens to be…..
  • National Second Chance Day – do you hear an echo in here?  What are the odds?

24th

  • Easter Sunday – Alleluia, Christ is Risen!  He has risen – INDEED!

♥ Now for what’s happening this week in Orlando ♥

CENTRAL

  • Winter Park – Taste of Winter Park on Wednesday, April 20th from 5p – 8p.  Cost is $40 in advance, $45 at the door.
  • Winter Park – Morse Museum of American Art is holding their Open House all Easter weekend.  Admission is FREE.
  • Loch Haven Park – in celebration of William Shakespeare’s 447th birthday Orlando’s Shakespeare’s Theatre is presenting a FREE movie presentation of “Romeo and Juliet” on Friday, April 22nd outdoors in beautiful Loch Haven Park.

NORTH

  • Sanford – Fourth Fridays Celebrating the Arts on Friday, April 22.  The event is from 6-8:30 PM at 230 East First Street in historic downtown Sanford.  Admission is Free.   

EAST

WEST

  • Winter Garden – The Garden Theatre presents, Sound of Music.  See site for prices and show times.  
  • Yalaha – the famous German Bakery, Yalaha Bakery, provides live entertainment each and every weekend.  This week is the music of Grant Peeples.  See site for times and location.  The music is FREE.  (NOTE:  the Yalaha Bakery will soon be opening right here in Orlando.)
Posted in Date Night Ideas | 2 Comments

Happy Hour

Posted on April 15, 2011 by Debi Walter

It’s our time to share with you other blog posts we think are special.  Kind of a two for one deal!  Enjoy…

The Dating Divas

  • Easter Egg Hunt – sometimes what a marriage really needs is some fun and games.  A chance to expect the unexpected.  Here’s an idea if you are looking for a fun and simple way to celebrate the Easter season.
  • Lovin’ Yo Hunny Bunny – another romantic idea to bless your man.  This one has a giveaway at the end of the post – you’ll definitely want to check out.  The contest ends at 10p Pacific Time.  The winner will be announced tomorrow so check it out!

Journey To Surrender

  • Getting Under The Covers – this post isn’t what you’re probably thinking, but it is an important – VERY important aspect of cultivating a strong, intimate relationship.  This is one of those posts every marriage needs to read and apply with God’s help to become all He desires.

Moments With You

  • Someday – a post to help those who are facing the “empty nest” stage, or those who haven’t given it much thought because you’re so busy with raising up the next generation.

Marriage Gems

A Deeper Story

  • Leading People Away From Grace – Sarah Markley with the Best Days of My Life blog writes a heartfelt post about the dangers of giving counsel to others without the Grace of God.
  • Not Enough – this post is featured on her blog today, and we’re glad we read it before our Happy Hour post went public.  For all the wives who are mothers and feeling the weight of well….everything.  Take a moment to read this.  You will identify, for sure; and we pray you’ll be encouraged!

The Generous Wife

  • Battling Fear – Lori Byerly shares from her heart how fear can affect our peace and trust in God.  What we love most about Lori’s posts is they are short and full of wisdom.  Something helpful for busy wives and moms.
  • Happy Birthday, Carolynn – a tribute to Lori’s mother-in-law with a great piece of advice wives would do well to put into practice.
  • What Matters to Him – a wise tip to help women love their man in a practical, unselfish way.

The Generous Husband

One Flesh Marriage

  • The Sexual Intimacy You’ve Always Wanted – Five posts offered by five marriage bloggers answering the same five questions.  A great concept full of practical experience.  When you follow the link, after reading the introductory post you’ll see links to the five separate posts.

Couple Things Blog

  • Sexual In2meSee – a great reminder of what it takes to have a more intimate relationship.  It’s simple, but difficult for many to do – give more of themselves.

The Marry Blogger on Your Tango

Posted in Blog Love, Happy Hour | 2 Comments

A Fragrant Aroma – Mon Aventure

Posted on April 15, 2011 by Debi Walter

Kara of Mon Aventure

We have friends who moved to Geneva, Switzerland, for a two year work assignment in 2009. She had never blogged before, but I encouraged her to take a shot at it for the sake of her loneliness and for the benefit of those of us who would love to experience life in Europe – through her eyes.  It was an added blessing that she is a gifted writer and photographer.  She launched Mon Aventure shortly after she set foot in Geneva.

During her first week she was missing her husband who had been working long hours.  She was also missing her family and friends an ocean away; and she missed being able to talk to other people in English.  This was when it happened.  She had an encounter with God which she shares beautifully in a post simply titled: Immanuel.

I have often reflected on this one part of her post when she was talking about her relationship with the Lord and the lack on her part of spending alone time with Him:

The point is that I needed to listen more closely to Him. I needed to find my fullness in Him. I do listen to Him. He has always directed my steps on some level. But last night I decided to walk closer. To listen even more carefully.

I’m reminded of all the couples I see walking arm in arm down the streets of Geneva. It’s been refreshing to be in a city where the cultural norm is for a woman to take her husband’s arm as she walks down the street. I love doing that with Chris, but I feel silly doing that in an American city where it stands out as so old fashioned.

I’m getting sidetracted. The point is, I took Jesus’ arm last night and I moved in a step closer to Him.

Painting by Gustave Caillebotte

I love to take Tom’s arm as we walk down the street.  Each time I do I am now reminded of Kara’s encounter with God as she was feeling lonely and isolated.  It was just what she needed to realize the truth and comfort of God’s promise, “I will never leave you, nor forsake you.”

In these challenging times, you may be missing a spouse who has to work extra hard, maybe even two jobs to make ends meet.  You may be missing a spouse serving overseas in the military or you may be the wife or husband of a terminally ill spouse requiring extended care.  You may be isolated with the busyness of raising small children getting up several times during the night to tend to their needs.  You may even be serving the Lord together overseas and know first hand what Kara is talking about. Whatever it is you are facing – it is good to remember – we are not alone. Our comfort and help first and foremost MUST come from God.  He is our rock – our anchor through every storm.  And He is the One who can help us as we face life’s changes and uncertainties.

If you would like to read the rest of Kara’s post – I pray it will encourage you and stay with you, like it has me.  The next time you walk arm in arm remember there is another arm holding onto you – it is the same arm that willingly stretched out on the Cross to die for you and for me.  But the story doesn’t end there – He is alive and lives to intercede for us.  What a Savior!  What a Friend!

 

 

Posted in A Fragrant Aroma, Blog Love, Difficulty | 1 Comment

Water Into Wine – Proverbs 1

Posted on April 14, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Photo Credit: joeldyke.com

Today we begin a new journey.  One that will take us through the entire book of Proverbs lasting 31 weeks.  We pray it will be encouraging, eye-opening, convicting and most of all helpful in turning the Water of the Word into Wine that is enjoyed and shared with others.  The fruit of a strong marriage.

The interesting thing about Proverbs is that Solomon isn’t sitting in a chair saying what he believes based on deep theological thinking.  He took all the knowledge and understanding God gave him and discovered it in real life experiences.  His Proverbs are backed with experience – which qualifies him as the best kind of teacher.  He doesn’t simply tell – he shows.

Photo Credit: flcompub.org

Here is the text that stood out to us as we read chapter 1 of Proverbs this week:

“The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth—Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

The purpose of Proverbs as a whole is to know wisdom and instruction.  Solomon had asked God to make him wise enough to lead His people well.  God answered his prayer and as a result wrote these proverbs for his son, but ultimately for us.

Is your marriage in need of wisdom?

Are you lacking understanding?

The good news is Proverbs will speak to us in our need, and as we respond to the Lord  it will help us grow.

Another purpose of Proverbs is to help us understand words of insight.  Have you ever read the same sentence over and over again because you couldn’t grasp what the writer was trying to say?  Sometimes this is the result of poor writing, but more often than not, it is a result of poor understanding.  This book will help us understand what we read about wisdom making proper application to our lives and marriage.

Thirdly, Proverbs will help us receive instruction in wise dealing.  Have you ever been in a situation where you honestly didn’t know what to do?  Given a couple of good choices, how can we know which one is best, wise and good?  Proverbs won’t tell us specifically which one to choose, but it will teach us how to have discernment in our dealings with others.

Fourth, Proverbs will provide instruction in righteousness.  In order to grow in righteousness, we must adhere to the belief there is only One Truth, One right path.  Our society has embraced a belief that there is no ultimate truth.  What is true for me may not be true for you.  It’s all relative.  However, to live this way rejects the Truth of God’s Word.  We do not condone this for it strips the Gospel of its power.

Righteousness was on display in the life of Christ.  His death and resurrection made His righteousness available to all who would believe and confess Christ as Lord.  In order to grow in righteousness we must be first and foremost, His.

The fifth purpose of Proverbs is to instruct us in matters of justice.  Justice is making sure the right prevails in all things – both relational and judicial.  However the right is not what we think is right, but what God’s Word dictates as right.  This is why it is imperative as Christians we read His Word regularly.  It is the daily immersion in His Word which will bring us to know the Truth.

The sixth purpose is to instruct us in matters of equity.  We weren’t sure what this meant so we turned to Webster’s 1828 for the biblical use of this word:  It is the treating of a person according to justice and reason; right. What a blessing it would be to be married to someone who always treated their spouse in this way.  Impossible?  Maybe completely, for we all married sinners, but it is a worthy goal.  And one we believe this book will help us move toward.

Finally, Proverbs speaks to all possible readers of this book:

  • It will give prudence to the simple – Prudence differs from wisdom in this, that prudence implies more caution and reserve than wisdom, or is exercised more in foreseeing and avoiding evil, than in devising and executing that which is good. (Webster’s 1828)
  • It will give knowledge and discretion to youth – what parent doesn’t pray for this to be evident in the life of their teens.  One trip to the local mall is proof how much discretion is lacking in our culture.
  • It will give encouragement to the wise to grow even more in their understanding.  We will never exhaust our need of more wisdom.

This is a long post, but one we believe sets the stage well for our extended time in this book.  The beginning of wisdom is in rightfully fearing God.  This is a holy fear, unlike the fear one experiences when afraid.  It is healthy to fear God.  To choose otherwise is to be what the last verse in our text says: a fool.

We would love to hear your thoughts?  How does this text speak to you today?

 

Posted in Water Into Wine, Weekly Series | Tagged , | 3 Comments

Milestones

Posted on April 13, 2011 by Debi Walter

Photo Credit: Pshutterbug

Our lives are full of milestones.  What exactly is a milestone?

  1. A stone marker set up on a roadside to indicate the distance in miles from a given point.
  2. An important event, as in a person’s career, the history of a nation, or the advancement of knowledge in a field; a turning point.

We’ve had many in our 32 years of marriage.  But there are some we will never forget.

  • The birth of our three children
  • Buying our first home
  • Buying our family business
  • Selling our family business
  • Graduations
  • Marriages
  • Becoming grandparents

These are etched in our minds like memorial stones.  Whenever we pass by them in our memory we pause and offer thanks to God for what He has done!

A few days before our daughter’s wedding I wrote an essay as a milestone. It is a place I can return to again and again to remember what God has done.  It is especially fitting this week, as I am once again counting down the days.  This time it is for our daughter’s move to Georgia with her husband and two small children.  She will be leaving our hometown in two weeks, and I am tempted, oh so tempted to be sad and discouraged.

But God has reminded me through this essay what He has done, which gives me hope for what He will do.  What milestones have you faced lately?  Are you encouraged or discouraged?  Talking about it with your spouse will help you answer these questions honestly.  Then praying about it together will provide the hope you need to continue moving forward, past this milestone to another one that is sure to come!  Because our God is faithful and He has promised to complete the work He’s begun.  It just might not look like we expected.

The Day, by Debi Walter

May 2005

I woke this morning feeling the weight of time.  As the days dwindle down until “The Day” is here, I am realizing how small I am, and I am tempted to fear.  Tomorrow is uncertain; I have no guarantees.  Yet, look at how God is faithful – always so faithful to me.  I am happy, and I am sad.  The regrets crowd my thoughts of what could have been, although I have more confidence in what God has done than in what I did not do.  This is the strength that brings me joy.  It upholds me when I want to fall.  And it makes me smile, when the tears build in my eyes.

Yes, my daughter is getting married in nine days!  Nine days!!  When she was born 10 days late, how well I remember that 9th day waiting for her to arrive.  Now it all seems surreal – that in nine days I will let her go, and she will become a Mrs. in her own right.  There are no epidurals that can numb this pain.  It is deep, yet rewarding, like the birth of a child.  For 21 years she has been my focus and daily concern.  I have prayed that she would make right choices and follow hard after God.  I have prayed for her husband for years – who now has a name and a face.  I am delighted at how good God has been to me, and most of all how good He has been to her.

First a baby, then a toddler, we taught her everything she knew.  Next it was home schooling that became our passion, and the preteen years kept us busier than we ever expected.  In high school we cheered at every ball game, and we were there for each milestone of her young life.   Praying, always praying for God to form in her the likeness of His Son.

I will soon walk down the aisle escorted by my son, as Mother of the Bride.  I will look into the faces of all our friends and family gathered to celebrate with us, and for a moment will realize with deep gratitude the influence they have had on my little girl’s life.  If it weren’t for the church functioning in our lives the way God intended, I wouldn’t be walking with my son at this moment.  It will be a walk of triumph, not in my accomplishments, but in God’s faithfulness.

Then, the music will stop.  The candles will flicker.  Everyone will rise and turn as my husband of 26 years, who I love more than I ever thought possible, will begin his final walk with her at his side.  Such a godly man!  He has led her for 21 years.  He has been her hero and the one who has shown her by example what a Biblical husband looks like.  He has guarded her heart diligently, and his moment to give her away to another awaits him at the end of this walk.

My daughter has grown into a beautiful woman of God!  On this day there will certainly be tears, but they will be tears of rejoicing in what God has done, and tears full of great hope for the future.

My life isn’t over by any means; I am just finished with one chapter, a chapter I loved so much.   Like finishing a book brings great satisfaction in seeing how all the events come together; I am in awe of how perfectly God has led her to this moment.  He is the One I celebrate as I count down the days to “The Day”.

Posted in Celebrations, Christian Marriage, Difficulty | 2 Comments

Here’s To You!

Posted on April 12, 2011 by Debi Walter

Last night as Tom and I were reading the entries for our Here’s To Us Challenge, we were quite affected by your special moments.  It became our moment to celebrate.  I happened to have some fresh strawberries and some chocolate dipping sauce on hand, so I made a plate for us to enjoy while we watched a movie together, which ended up celebrating marriage in a surprising way.  The title of the film is, Did You Hear About the Morgans? If you haven’t seen it yet, click on the picture to watch the trailer.

 

Photo from the film

Yeah, we know this movie came out 2 years ago, but that’s about how often we watch movies.  So glad we watched this one.  And we’re so glad you entered our contest – thank you!  We pray your marriage will be touched in a meaningful way as you continue to look for these moments worth celebrating.

Now to announce our winner – first of all, you MUST know we use Random.org to select our winner.  How it works – we enter the number of entries we have and press a button.  It gives us the winning number, and then we count the comments down in the order they were received.  We had 11 entries and this month’s winning number is 8.  It so happens the winner is…..

Tracy Lytle

For those of you who don’t know, this is our 27 year old daughter – the one you will read about in tomorrow’s post.  She has been married for nearly 6 years to Seth and has two adorable children whom we love more than we thought possible.  It is so kind of God to choose to bless them this month. Congratulations, Tracy! Here is her special moment:

While packing up our house I came across some old pictures. I found one of the first day I met Seth and I also found the old journal I kept during that time. I was able to show it to him and read the journal entries I had written at the time. It was a good laugh in the midst of a sad season in my life.

Next, we want to share with you the entries we received – they are too good to leave in the comment section by themselves.  They deserve their own post, so here you go:

Bonnie:

Bob and I had a fun, silly moment as we toasted the launch of my new blog. Bob grilled steaks and we lifted a glass to each other. My laptop, complete with my blog on the screen, also joined us at the table. It just seemed wrong not to include it.

Lori:

We had to unexpectedly put down our family cat this past Saturday. I could not be in the room while the Doctor put down my sweet boy. My husband stayed and held him, telling him it was okay while he took his last breath. I’m so thankful for him.

Bonita:

A funny thing happened one fine gardening day!

Wayne and I were out doing our routine/mundane yard work one Saturday afternoon. We tugged at and pulled out weeds, swept off the driveway, replanted, snipped here, lopped there, etc… Finally, as the day was nearing the end, I asked Wayne if he would like to lay out in our hammock (nailed between two trees) with me and rest up. He and I both positioned ourselves to carefully sit down together, before we were to skillfully position ourselves in the laying out position… Next thing ya know…PLUNK!!

We found ourselves flat on the ground…(only about two feet down)…We began laughing at the ‘sight’ of it…Too funny…but while we were on the ground, we happened to notice a tiny wee flower that ‘just happened’ to be growing in an ‘out-of-the-way’ spot in the leaves. How sweet to ‘rest’ among nature’s beauty!It was great to enjoy such a silly event and laugh at ourselves… :)

Claire:

Last week, I was helping my husband take the garbage out to the alley one evening, and we both took a moment to stop and look at the sunset. It was a beautiful moment to stop and take a few deep breaths together in the middle of a busy day.

Leslie:

We had an impromptu celebration of spring over the weekend. We had planned on grilling some chicken for dinner, but when we noticed just how beautiful the weather was outside, we made an occasion out of it.

After cleaning the pollen off the patio table and setting a center piece of our seedlings for our garden, we enjoyed a wonderful dinner under the blue skies. The birds provided the background music and the slight cool breeze kept the temperature just right. We even had a pair of bees to buzz around and provide some entertainment. It was a wonderful evening.

Kristen:
Jeremy and I sat in our bed on an ordinary night and read out loud our testimonies to each other that we were planning to share the next night at our church. It was a very special moment for us both and ended with us in tears at the gratefulness of God’s work in our lives :)
Jessica:
My husband and I of a year and a half have started clinking our glasses together and saying “Cheers” at any time of the day. Whether we are drinking milk or our favorite cherry limeade, it makes us both laugh and make the moment together feel special.
Noelle:
While I was on Bed-rest for five weeks, George and I didn’t get much time alone together because of the blessing of so much help we were so so blessed with and with his taking care of all my responsibilities as well as his own. One afternoon during our two year old’s nap-time we purposed to just sit and talk without the tv on and with nothing else “getting done”.. He joined me on my home for five weeks, the couch, and we just spent undistracted time together. I’m so grateful for the way that he served me during those weeks, and I’m also so grateful to be off of bedrest ready to welcome this baby! =)
Tammy:
When we had only been married a few years, Joe and I had been asked to help a family member with a financial burden. With only one of us working, we made a choice to forgo buying anything for Christmas…It was very hard….We had a very tight budget that year and it seemed the right thing to do :) I don’t think we realized just how hard it would be :) one day I found an extra $5.00 in my purse…I sooo wanted a tree :) ) I got up the nerve to go to this Christmas tree place a few days before Christmas and ask if he had any trees that might cost $5.00….He looked around and pointed to this broken tree….”how about that one?” I squealed with glee:::: “i’ll take it!!” he loaded it in my car and handed me back my $5.00…”oh just have it…Merry Christmas”….When Joe came home, he was so surprised and then we both were near tears as we rejoiced in how God’s kindness was so brought forth in something which seemed so small….but was so very big to us! Who would have thought that 22 years ago that small gesture would still be a beautiful reminder to us that God even cares about the small things…and for the record…that had to be the most beautiful tree ever!
Allie:
Chris is such a thoughtful hubby. Sunday (my Bday) we all went to my fave beach. He had purchased 2 kites, bubbles, and filled a cheery insulated picnic basket with a gourmet picnic.

Some have said they would’ve wanted the day “off” from the kids- and those times are special! But as we toasted my bday w bubbly and enjoyed one another in the midst of the family the Lord has blessed us with, I was incredibly thankful for my amazing hubby!! We can be fully in the midst of 6 kiddos & still get lost in each other. I love this man. :)

And now to a new month of finding little moments worth celebrating.  You’re doing a GREAT job.  If you would like details on how it works – click the picture below.  Thanks!  And if you have your own blog and would like to encourage your readers to take part in our monthly challenge simply grab the photo and link to post on your site.  We only ask that you link back to us so we can keep track of all the good God is doing in our lives.

Posted in Celebrations, Contests, Here's To Us Challenge | 1 Comment

Mark Your Calendar

Posted on April 11, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Tomorrow is our monthly Here’s To Us Challenge. Tell us about something this past month where you’ve celebrated an ordinary moment making it extraordinary.  Please take some time to share yours with us by commenting on this post by midnight tonight. We’ll select one entry by using Random.org to win this month’s gift card to your favorite restaurant.  Be sure to read tomorrow’s post where we’ll reveal our winner!  We look forward to hearing about your special Here’s To Us moment!

_____________________________________________

♥ Fun Dates To Celebrate ♥

11th

  • National Cheese Fondue Day – a great excuse to enjoy some great cheese.  Be sure to take a picture – saying “cheese,” of course.

13th

  • National Peach Cobbler Day – what else needs to be said, except pick up some vanilla ice cream!  Try Paula Deen’s recipe – we think it’s the BEST!
  • Scrabble Day – Woo Hoo!  Tom said if I’d bake peach cobbler, he’d play Scrabble with me.  DEAL!

16th

  • National Stress Awareness Day – since this day follows National Tax Day, it’s expected this day would be in need of some serious stress relief.  How do you spell relief?  S-E-X?

17th

  • National Cheeseball Day

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♥ Now for what’s happening this week in Orlando ♥

CENTRAL

NORTH

EAST

  • Oviedo – Taste of Oviedo will be held on Saturday, April 16th from 10a to 6p.  Samples will be available and range from $1 to $4.50.
  • Casselberry – German American Society presents German SpringFest 2011.  On Saturday, April 16th come enjoy authentic German food and drink along with great Oompah bands.  Cost is $5 and the gate opens at 2p.

SOUTH

  • Universal Portofino Bay Resort – Harbor Nights Primavera will take place on Friday, April 15th at 6:30p.  Cost is $35 and includes food and drinks.
  • Orange County Convention Center – Central Florida Home and Garden Show – April 15th – 17th.  Check website for tickets pricing and hours.

WEST

  • Clermont – Lake Ridge Winery hosts the Blues at the Winery event on Saturday and Sunday, April 16th and 17th.  Cost is $2.

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♥  Make the most of your time together  ♥

Posted in Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, Fun Dates, Mark Your Calendars (time sensitive) | 11 Comments

Happy Hour

Posted on April 8, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Welcome to Happy Hour in the Vineyard where we share with you special posts we’ve read this past week that we believe are worth your time.

The Dating Divas

  • Anniversary Milestones – an amazing compilation of how to make your wedding anniversary the best it can be.  Thanks, girls!

The Generous Husband

  • Fifty and Loving It – Paul shares with us what he’s learned in his half a century of life, love and marriage.  Happy Birthday, Paul.  Welcome to this side of 50!  🙂

The Generous Wife

Journey To Surrender

  • Living Deeper – Great advice if applied will change your marriage!

Marriage Gems

Have a great weekend as you purpose to strengthen your marriage!

 

 

Posted in Blog Love, Happy Hour | Comments Off on Happy Hour

A Fragrant Aroma: Thank You

Posted on April 8, 2011 by Debi Walter

This has been a difficult week.  I’ve shared some of it with you.

As I was making our bed yesterday I realized I didn’t feel as sad and weighed down.  I thought to myself, Maybe today will be better…when I heard a familiar – still, small Voice gently say, You know the reason you feel better is because I have people praying for you.

I can’t tell you how this statement affected me.  To realize there were close friends, faraway friends and even people I barely know through our blog praying for ME!  My heart could not contain the thought.  I was humbled and blessed and most of all GRATEFUL to God first, and then, to you.  Thank you.  With all that is within me, thank you!  I have been helped because of your prayers, and now I can glorify God for what you have done.

This is the church doing what it was made to do – may God return the blessing on you, my dear friends.

How can we pray for you today?

 

Posted in A Fragrant Aroma | Tagged | 4 Comments

New Series: Water Into Wine

Posted on April 7, 2011 by Tom and Debi

Photo Credit: ivehadanepiphany.blogspot.com

Jesus’ first miracle took place at a wedding.  Up until this point He had done nothing to indicate publicly who He was and why He had come.  He was living life in an ordinary way.  That is until the marriage covenant had been sealed and the celebration had begun.

Wine was flowing freely, but then the worst thing happened – the wine ran out.  There was no more to offer the guests who were still celebrating.  What would this do to the party?  How would the guests feel knowing they drank the place dry?  What about the bride and groom – there would be an abrupt ending, not at all what they had planned. What about the host?  How embarrassing to realize all you had wasn’t enough.

But God had another plan.

  • He wanted the host to see his lack, his complete inability to meet the needs of his guests left to himself.  He had a serious problem and no means to fix it.
  • He wanted to Bride and Groom to realize His part in their marriage covenant.  There would be an abrupt ending to the celebration, if He were not present to work miracles in their relationship.
  • He wanted us to see His passion for marriage.  It is His desire to see all marriages producing fruit that remains, fruit which doesn’t dry up or run out.  Only He can do this.

He is present in our marriage – day in and day out.  He knows our need.  If we ask He will provide in ways we think are impossible.  He is the unseen guest, but He is more than a guest.  He is the reason we can make covenant together.  Without Him marriage wouldn’t work the way He intended.  And many times it fails.

Photo Credit: http://www.newmacharchurch.net

We are beginning a new series using the Proverbs to instruct us practically in our marriage.  The goal is to take one chapter a week and pick a portion to discuss.  We don’t have a set idea of what we’ll do, but we’re trusting God to lead us to the verse/verses He has for us each week.  It will be like the Holy Spirit taking the Water of the Word and turning it into rich wine in our marriage as we make application.  It will be miraculous as we take part, and we pray others will take notice.  Again, not for our benefit only, but more importantly for His glory!

All miracles point to the Miracle Giver, and we can’t wait to see what He’ll do.

You may be familiar with Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill Church.  He has an excellent sermon applying the Proverbs to Marriage.  It is 45 minutes long, but worth the time.  It will lay the foundation for our series in the weeks ahead.  Simply click the picture to listen.

 

Mark and Grace Driscoll

Posted in Water Into Wine, Weekly Series | Tagged | Comments Off on New Series: Water Into Wine