Mark Your Calendar

Posted on March 22, 2010 by Debi Walter

Fresh Picked

What a weekend – it was the first where the weather was absolutely beautiful, and Tom and I were actually able to get outside and enjoy it.  We hope you enjoyed your time together as well!

Want to plan to do nothing together on your next date?  Check out this list of 5 Great Places To Chill!  This is the perfect time of year to do nothing together!  However, there are always many great things taking place in the City Beautiful!  We try to offer a variety of activities from baseball to ice cream, to name a few;  it’s all happening around O-town this week:

CENTRAL

  • Altamonte Springs – Crane’s Roost Park presents Friday Night Live – March 26th. Come out to Cranes Roost Park and enjoy great live entertainment in a beautiful outdoor setting.  Friday Night Live is a free concert series, open to the public, which showcases top local artists who perform Jazz, Pop, Big Band and Contemporary music on a weekly basis.  Each live concert is sure to have everyone up on their feet dancing! This week enjoy the sounds of R&B/Jazz with a performance by Cornucopia.
  • Winter Park – Bike from Park to Park – Friday, March 26th beginning at 8a.
  • Downtown Winter Park – Popcorn Flicks in the Park – Thursday, March 25th beginning at 8p.  This month’s movie is Fantastic Voyage.  The movie and popcorn are FREE.
  • Amway Arena – Orlando Magic vs. Minnesota Timberwolves, Friday, March 26th at 7p.
  • Calvary Assembly of God – Casting Crowns in Concert, Saturday, March 27th at 7p.  Tickets start at $22.

NORTH

  • Mt. Dora – celebrates it’s centennial with an old-fashioned Ice Cream Social, Thursday, March 25th from 5p – 7p at Donnelly Park.  FREE.
  • Mt. Dora – Century Boats Display, Thursday, March 25th from 5p – 7p at Lakeside Inn.  Come see what luxury boating looked like in year past.  FREE.
  • Mt. Dora – Annual Spring Collectibles and Crafts Show, Saturday and Sunday, March 27 – 28.  9a – 5. 200 vendors displaying treasures on the downtown streets of Mount Dora. For more information please call 1-866-683-6722. FREE.
  • Mt. Dora – Free Centennial Concert in the Park – Saturday, March 27th beginning at 5p.  FREE.  Free concert in the park featuring Larry Hoppen & friends from the Orleans band, plus local bands and an extra ordinary silent auction. A beer garden will be available from 5:30-8:00pm. Bring your chairs or reserve seats for $10 and VIP seats for $40 includes reception with the band from 8:00-10:00pm at Mount Dora Brewing Co.

EAST

  • Daytona Speedway – Spring Car Show and Swap – Friday – Sunday, March 26th – 28th.  See link for details!
  • New Smyrna Beach – East Coast Scholastic Surfing Championships – Friday – Sunday, March 26th – 28th.
  • New Smyrna Beach – Art Walk and Wine Tasting, Saturday, March 27th from 10a – 6p.
  • Oviedo – Pappy’s Patch – pick your own strawberries – this is the perfect time of year to enjoy harvesting your own strawberries.  (Call for exact dates and times open)  Pick your own strawberries @ Pappy’s Patch.  Be sure to call ahead for availability.  407-366-8512.  Located 1 mile past downtown Oviedo, in Winter Springs off from SR-434.  Turn rt on De Leon, then left at stop-sign.  1st rt onto Florida Ave.

SOUTH

WEST

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Freebie Friday: The First Day of Spring

Posted on March 19, 2010 by Debi Walter

Tomorrow, March 20th, marks the first day of Spring!  This has been the coldest winter in I don’t remember when – so I couldn’t be happier! New beginnings are always welcomed – so why not do something special this weekend that’s new to both of you?  You might try flying a kite or picking strawberries – whatever it is, make it a special memory.

As a bonus  – Rita’s is offering a free 10 oz. Italian Ice tomorrow from Noon to 10p. to celebrate the arrival of Spring!  Simply follow the link and enjoy a cool treat for a hot date with your spouse!

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Husbands…Love!

Posted on March 18, 2010 by Tom Walter

Concerning the husband’s responsibility to love his wife, J. R. Miller offers these thoughts:

“Each member of the household has a part in the family life and fullest happiness and blessedness of the home can be attained only when each one’s part is safely fulfilled. If any one member of the family fails in love or duty, the failure mars the whole household life, just as one discordant note in a company of singers spoils the music – though all the others sing in perfect accord. One person cannot alone make a home what it ought to be, what it might be.

One sweet spirit may spread through the home the odors of love, even though among the other members, there is bitterness and strife, just as one fragrant flower may spread through a hedge of thorns a breath of perfume. The influence of one gentle and unselfish life may also in times soften rudeness and melt selfishness and pervade the home life with blessedness of love.

Yet still is true that no member of a household can make the household life full and complete. Each must do a part. The husband has a part all his own which no other can do…There is one work which covers all as far as the husband’s responsibility and the word is love.”

Men, it is true – of all the members of the household none is more responsible than we are to do that which we have been ordained by God to do!  In our own strength this is impossible, but God….BUT GOD…has promised to help us in our weakness to do that which we could never do left to ourselves.

May we pray all the more earnestly to be men who love their wives by laying aside our desires for their good and ultimately for God’s glory!

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Project 52: Just What The Doctor Ordered

Posted on March 17, 2010 by Debi Walter

This week Tom has been very sick.  For most of it I was away on a girl’s basketball camp in Tennessee serving as driver and team mother.  When I arrived home Tom was greatly in need of some tender loving care from me; I was happy to oblige!

Our date night is on Monday, but Tom was still battling a headache and feeling miserable.  Rather than “can” the whole date night – we went out for dinner nearby to a place where we could talk quietly.  It was good to be together even if he didn’t have much of a voice.  Afterward we came home, and I drew him a hot shower in order for the steam to help relieve his congested head.  It worked.

To my surprise, Tom had recorded a live concert of Michael Bolton – Live at Royal Albert Hall in England while I was gone.

It was relaxing, romantic and exactly what the doctor ordered – REST.

(Click on the picture above to hear our favorite Michael Bolton song!)

We’ve discovered through the years the best part of regular date nights is being together; what you do is secondary!

Want to join in the fun?  It’s not too late – simply click the button below to go to Simply Modern Moms to sign up for this year long challenge.  Your marriage will be stronger as a result!

_________________________________________________________________

I promised yesterday to post my recipe for Irish Stew and Irish Soda Bread!  Simply click the pictures below which will take you to my daughter’s food brag blog: My Delicious Life.   May you have a wonderful and memorable St. Patrick’s Day!

Posted in D.R.A.B., Date Night Ideas, Free Dates, Holidays, Music, Project 52 | Tagged | 2 Comments

Mark Your Calendar

Posted on March 16, 2010 by Debi Walter

Top O The Mornin’ To You!

May you always have
Walls for the winds,
A roof for the rain,
Tea beside the fire,
Laughter to cheer you,
Those you love near you,
And all your heart might desire!

This week is St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th.  Going to an Irish Pub can be quite crowded, but it’s always fun to have your own Irish Celebration at home!  We have a great authentic recipe for Irish Stew and Soda Bread.  We’ll be posting it tomorrow, so if you’d like to have your own Irish Romantic Evening – check back tomorrow for some great ideas!  Who knows – maybe the “luck o’ the Irish” will be with you!  Sláinte

In the meantime, check out what’s happening around town this week:

CENTRAL

NORTH

  • Sanford – Cinema in the Park – Featured movie: Mrs. Doubtfire.  Show starts at 7:30p. Cost is FREE.
  • Altamonte Springs – Cranes Roost Park – Friday Night Live on Friday, March 19th from 7:30 – 9p.  This week the featured band is King’s County.  Cost is FREE.

EAST

  • UCF Jazz Festival – Friday, March 19th and Saturday, March 20th.  Check out their website for prices and times.

SOUTH

  • Central Florida Home and Garden Show – Friday, March 19th – Sunday, March 21st.  Orange County Convention Center.

WEST

Posted in Date Night Ideas, Mark Your Calendars (time sensitive) | Comments Off on Mark Your Calendar

Congratulations…

Posted on March 15, 2010 by Debi Walter

…to Bob Anderson – our monthly drawing winner this month!

Bob Anderson just so happens to be a good friend of ours.  He and his wife Bonnie have been married…longer than us, and have offered us a listening ear and biblical counsel when needed.  They are very special to us, so we’re thrilled to bless them with a gift card to Barnes & Noble, since they both love to read.  Bob, (and Bonnie) we want you to have a night out on us – we love and appreciate you!  Thank you for the example your marriage is to us and so many others!

In case you don’t remember, we have a drawing each and every month on the 12th.  Why?  The Romantic Vineyard was established on the 12th of November, 2008.   Since we LOVE anniversaries around here, we thought it quite appropriate to celebrate this one by giving one of you, our loyal members, a special gift.   The name is selected by random drawing from those who have signed up to receive our blog via e-mail (see right side bar) and from those who have become fans of The Romantic Vineyard on Facebook.  If you’ve signed up for both – you have a double chance of winning!

NOTE:  Join us tomorrow for our Mark Your Calendar post.

Posted in Contests | 2 Comments

Freebie Friday: Encouragement

Posted on March 12, 2010 by Tom Walter

“But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”    Hebrews 3:13 ESV

Photo by Abby Jenkins

How often we need encouragement to see that we’re making progress in our marriage.  Today we want to help you see how far you’ve come.

At the end of each year our Pastor will ask the same question:

“Think of where you were this time last year, and look at where God has brought you this year?”

It is always a good reminder that although we may not see progress day by day, we are changing.  Growth is often not evident when you’re looking too closely.  If you look further back – certainly you will see that some of the struggles you were facing 1 – 5 years ago are not an issue today.  God is perfecting you for His glory!

Take some time to think about a specific area of change you have noticed in your spouse.  Then, purpose to encourage them with what you’ve observed.  We all need to be built up in our faith – what a joy to do this for the one we are closest to in this life.  Not only will they be encouraged, but your kind words will help them guard their hearts from being deceived by sin – that’s a promise from God’s Word, and one we can cling to with faith!

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Where We’ve Been

Posted on March 11, 2010 by Debi Walter

Yesterday, Tom shared his practice of offering a soft answer whenever I’m angry or having an emotional meltdown.  I wanted to share with you my side – being the recipient of Tom applying this scripture to our relationship.

First of all, it would be good for you to know in the beginning of our marriage, this wasn’t the norm.  In fact, Tom would not usually offer a “soft” answer;  It was more like a “silent” answer!  We were both quite adept at shutting down completely when it came to conflict. Rather than deal with the issues, we would sulk, ignore them (and each other) and hope the next day would be better.  One time the conflict went on for nearly a year!  It was not a fun season, and it certainly didn’t glorify God.

God in His great mercy and kindness has helped us grow in our knowledge of and obedience to the Word of God, and it has spilled over into how we treat each other. 

Tom is not only my husband, but he is my closest friend.

He sees me at my worst and rather than react to my sin, he gently helps me apply God’s Word.  This isn’t always welcomed;  in those moments I would much rather give full vent to my feelings.   Yet, I have learned to trust him and follow his lead.  His soft answer has kept me from going down the path of least resistance – the place where all kinds of division and conflict flow.  This isn’t the path that will lead us to where we want our marriage to be 10 years from now.

By God’s grace we aren’t where we were 30 years ago.  We have grown, and it is only because God has been at work in us – completing what He’s started!  May our story give you hope that even though you may not see quick progress, God is doing what He does best – changing us for His glory one conflict at a time.

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Growing Strong Marriages | 3 Comments

Where Are We Going?

Posted on March 10, 2010 by Tom Walter

This is a good question we should ask ourselves often:  Where do we want to be 10, 15 or 20 years from now in our marriages?  Once you have a clear vision in view, the next question is: What choices am I making today that will help me get there 0r prevent me from getting there?

Far too often we react in the heat of the moment instead of choosing carefully our responses to our wives.   Most women are more emotional than men, although I am not ashamed to admit I tear up quite easily.  But I have learned through the years when Debi is having an emotional challenge not to react to her, but instead calmly lead.

Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

It’s not easy staying calm in the midst of a heated moment, but God has helped me speak softly.  I can testify the word of God is true!  Many an argument has been diffused when I’ve chosen to speak softly.  Loving our wives involves being willing to defer rather than conquer.  I don’t have to go after every challenge and prove myself.  My task is to represent Christ by the way I treat my wife.  Certainly this doesn’t mean peace at all costs – there are times to confront and correct, but that’s another post.

For now, this is the road I’m choosing to follow – how about you?

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Growing Strong Marriages | 4 Comments

Project 52: Cool Picnic

Posted on March 9, 2010 by Debi Walter

This week was Tom’s turn to plan our date.  I was so excited as I left the house for a hair appointment due to his hints at our special evening.  How fun to be away for the afternoon anticipating our time – time that he was planning for US.

On my way home there was a little disappointment.  Tom called to say his afternoon didn’t quite go as planned…we were still  going to have our special date, but he had had two lengthy interruptions.  I told him it was fine – just being together was what was most important to me.

First, you have to know the weather here was absolutely beautiful Saturday!  There wasn’t a cloud in the sky and the temps were in the low 60’s.  As I arrived home, Tom led me to the back porch where he had spent time cleaning it completely!  The smell of bleach was invigorating – knowing what I was seeing was as clean as it looked!  Next, he had me sit by the pool with my favorite drink and appetizers – cheese, crackers and stuffed olives!

The evening continued this way through our entire dinner – it was our first picnic of 2010!  The food, although store bought, was from our favorite specialty grocery store – The Fresh Market.  We had sushi and steaming hot tomato bisque soup.  We spent our time listening to the birds, talking about our day and enjoying the time together outside in the fresh air.  Our cat, Wizzer, enjoyed it too!  I think he was hoping for some sushi, but there are limits!!

Next he told me we had to leave in a few minutes.  He had made plans for us to go to the movies!  I love the movies so this was a real treat for me; Tom’s not big on movies.  Oh, it’s not because he doesn’t like them, but because there are so few worth seeing.  Actually, I agree with him on this point.  We normally wait until they hit Netflix and if others have recommended a particular one, then we’ll make the time to watch it together.

This time we were going to see Blind Side – the true story of a family who takes into their home a very poor boy in need of love and support.  It was one movie worth seeing!  I was riveted with the story, the compassion, the love between the husband and wife, and most of all – the way they embraced someone who was completely unlike them welcoming him into their home and hearts.  Sandra Bullock won the Oscar for Best Actress in her role on Sunday night.  It is in my opinion her best performance – ever!

After the movie – we came home to dessert – Chocolate Cheesecake for me and Tiramisu for Tom.  It was a perfectly planned evening where I felt like the Queen of Hearts – Tom’s heart that is!  From the day we started dating I have always felt first in his heart (after the Lord, of course!), and this date confirmed the fact that I still am!  Amazing!

Posted in Date Night Ideas, Project 52 | 4 Comments

Mark Your Calendar

Posted on March 8, 2010 by Debi Walter

How grateful I am to God for the Marriage Covenant.  It sees us through good days and bad days – for better or worse;  The worse can be defined by circumstances or sometimes simply by the way we “feel”.  I didn’t “feel” so good this weekend, yet my husband loves me.  He’s proven his commitment to show his love especially when I don’t deserve it.  I am blessed to have such a man as my husband.  He excels is laying his life down for me and preferring me above others.  It is this fact that helps lift me out of the mire of self and into the joyful world of self-sacrifice.  Thank you, Tom.  I love you more with each day that passes!

Now, on to what’s happening around our area this next week.  If nothing on the list inspires you – at least enjoy being outside.  The weather in Central Florida this time of year, is the best!  Make the most of it!

NOTE: Daylight Savings Time begins on Saturday night, March 13th.  We’ll “spring forward” losing one hour of sleep!

CENTRAL

  • Downtown Orlando – WMMO presents Collective Soul – a free concert on Saturday, March 13th at 4p. in the City Hall Plaza.
  • The City Scramble Tour – this one won’t take place until Saturday, March 27th, but registration is open now.  You’ve heard of The Amazing Race – well this is a local race with the proceeds going to charity.  Check out their website for all the details!  It sounds like a blast!!!
  • The Winter Park Playhouse presents I Got Rhythm.  Dates, times and prices vary.  Check website for details.
  • Downtown Winter Park presents The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra”Spring Pops Musical Postcards”. Sunday, March 14th at 7p.  Cost is FREE
  • Popcorn Flicks in the Park – Central Park in downtown Winter Park – Thursday, March 11th at 7p.  Featured movie is Fantastic Voyage.  Cost and popcorn are FREE.
  • Ivanhoe Village – Tuesday, March 9th Gallery Walk from 6:30p – 9p. on Virginia Drive.  FREE.
  • Ivanhoe Village – Spring Free Festival – Sunday, March 14th from 2:30p – 7:30p. Enjoy the sunset over beautiful Lake Ivanhoe.  FREE.

NORTH

  • Sanford – Alive after Five presents “It’s A Green Thing”, street party from 5p – 8p.  Food and drink included for $7 per person.  There will be live music as well!
  • Altamonte Springs – Cranes Roost Park presents Friday Night Live from 7p – 9p.  This week’s feature is The Sounds of Sinatra with John Anthony.  Cost is FREE.
  • Altamonte Springs – Cranes Roost Park presents Winestock on Saturday, March 13th from 4p – 8p.  There will be live music and samples of food and wine.  The cost is $25.
  • Eustis – A Musical Evening at the Historic State Theatre.  Cost is $15.  Friday, March 12th.  See website for details.
  • Mt. Dora – Movie in the Park – Friday, March 12th beginning at Dusk – Cost is FREE.  This month’s movie is Shrek 3.

EAST

  • Avalon Park – Eastside Bistro presents a romantic dinner for two.  Thursday, March 11th enjoy a four course dinner for two for $59.95.  Reservations recommended.

SOUTH

  • Hard Rock Live – presents The Moody Blues in concert.  Monday, March 8th at 8p.  Tickets start at $51 and go up.
  • ICEBAR offers swing dance lessons the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month.  This Tuesday from 7p – 9p enjoy this time to get your swing!  Cost is $10.
  • Bok Tower Gardens – Music at Pinewood: Romance of Spain.  Tickets are limited to 75 and cost $25.  Sunday, March 14th 4:30 – 6:30p.

WEST

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Freebie Friday: Wisdom Speaks

Posted on March 5, 2010 by Debi Walter


Wisdom from 170 years ago still speaks as clearly today. If you have found a husband/wife with whom to share life’s journey, you have within reach the ability to be the happiest of all earthly creatures. Marriage is a gift! Celebrate the good God has given you in your spouse! Enjoy this quote:

The purest happiness of an earthly nature, is that which springs up in a comfortable home, where there is a loving union of hearts between man and wife.

The tender sympathies,
the delicate affections,
the minute attentions,
the watchful solicitudes,
the ceaseless kindnesses of marital love,
–are the sweetest ingredients in the cup of life, and contribute a thousand times more to earthly enjoyment, than all the possessions of wealth, and all the blandishments of rank, station, and fashion.”

by John Angell James, 1841

Think of it – when we treat our spouse with such care we are cultivating an environment where happiness thrives.  This weekend, let’s look for ways to offer:

  • tender sympathies – listening with ears and eyes to what concerns them
  • delicate affections – offering unexpected hugs, kisses and caresses
  • minute attentions – bring them their favorite drink, slippers or reading material
  • watchful solicitudes – sharing your care and concern for their growth in godliness – areas they may not see
  • ceaseless kindnesses of marital love – pursue them, be the initiator and throw of all inhibitions when it comes to loving your spouse

If you’re reading this – God has determined for you to be the one who starts!  We can play the game “They should go first – I want them to do this for me! I deserve it…etc.”  The Bible instructs us with how to handle thoughts like these :

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them…” Matthew 7:12 ESV

Wisdom is speaking – are we listening?

Today’s freebie offer comes from:

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – tomorrow is PJ day – simply visit your local store on Saturday, March 6th in your PJ’s and receive a free single scoop waffle cone!  Can’t beat that!  Check out their FB page for more details!

Posted in Christian Marriage, Freebie Friday, Growing Strong Marriages | Comments Off on Freebie Friday: Wisdom Speaks

The Marriage Dance

Posted on March 4, 2010 by Debi Walter

Each morning I enjoy time alone with the Lord – reading His Word, praying for my husband, my family, friends and for the day ahead. I usually write out my prayers along with my thoughts in my journal allowing me refer back to it whenever I’m prompted to do so. This happened today as Tom and I were contemplating what to post.

Following is something I wrote during one of my quiet times; it is a unique picture of marriage, and we pray it will encourage you as you dance together through this life as husband and wife:

I saw a husband and wife who were busy attending to the needs of their family, their home, their church, when they heard the Father call their names. He led them to a door in their house they had never noticed before. The words were heard, “Enter into My joy – My presence.” And the door opened.

As they walked into the dark room together the door closed behind them as the lights turned on. The circular room was empty, but the walls were lined with mirrors. The immediate desire was to leave. The stark reality the mirrors reflected made the husband and wife very uncomfortable, even disturbed. They turned to exit, but the door was hidden behind a mirror. All the husband could see was a reflection of himself; all the wife could see was a reflection of herself. Their flaws were screaming at them, but their was no chance to escape. Instead they clung to each other looking into each other’s eyes. There they found comfort, support and help. They closed their eyes and embraced each other for what seemed an extended time. They whispered affections and heartfelt adorations all the while praising God for the gift of their partner, lover, friend.

What seemed frightening now became curious. They opened their eyes and the most beautiful music began to play. They felt it so intensely their bodies began to dance together. Their hearts and lives were caught up in the rhythm of the glorious music. Looking in the mirrors they saw something that startled them both; they had become one and were being led across the dance floor by Him – the lover of their souls. No longer did they notice their own flawed reflections. They noticed the One who had been leading them all along. Beautiful in Holiness. Immediately, they looked up noticing there was no ceiling in this room, the heavens loomed large above and this is from where the music was coming. It was the music of heaven and only One was watching – the only One who mattered.

The husband and wife realized their oneness was a reflection of Him who called them to be one. Their separate reflections no longer disturbed them because of their acceptance by Him who made them. They longed to dance forever in praise and thanksgiving, but suddenly the music softened, the lights went out and the hidden door opened. “Go”, the voice was heard, “return to the life I’ve called you to, only never forget for whom it is you live and move and have your being. You are reflecting Me to a dark world. And your marriage glorifies Me, even with all your flaws. I have called you to dance and as you do, others will hear the music and join in the praise.

See, I have said this to you to draw your hearts to each other as never before. Do not delay; come to Me, and I will unite your hearts again and you will dance — for My glory and your pleasure.

Posted in Christian Marriage, Growing Strong Marriages, Spiritual Intimacy | Tagged | 1 Comment

Spontaneous Rendezvous

Posted on March 3, 2010 by Debi Walter

We had a rental vehicle that needed to be returned by 5p on Monday.  I drove the car to the rental agency, which happened to be located in the lobby of a beautiful hotel.  Tom agreed to meet me there from work within the hour.

I brought my journal and a book in order to pass the time in an enjoyable manner in case he was delayed.  The time I had  alone was refreshing, but when Tom arrived he suggested we sit in the hotel lobby and order an appetizer.

I’m so glad we did; it was an unexpected Happy Hour!

We felt as if we were far away, yet in reality, we were only miles from our home.  He was able to share with me his day, and I listened without distraction remembering all I love about this man.

Being spontaneous keeps our relationship fresh and exciting.  This is an area in which we can continually grow.  If spontaneity is the spice of life, then actually making plans and following through with them must be the main course!

Why not think of a way to spend a Happy Hour with your spouse?  It could be at home or actually at a hotel like we did.  Either way, it’s sure to add spice to your marriage.  And the best part is – you’ll both be the beneficiaries!

Appetizer: $8,  Spontaneous Rendezvous with Tom – PRICELESS!

Posted by Debi

Posted in Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, Dating Your Spouse, romancing your spouse | Comments Off on Spontaneous Rendezvous

Project 52: Out of Africa with the Taulbees

Posted on March 2, 2010 by Debi Walter

Our travels this month took us on an African Safari in Kenya!  Half of the evening was going to take place at home, so I decided enlist the help of my 2 and 3 year old boys in preparing for the evening.

Now, it may be helpful to understand that my husband, Jeff, works from home.  Being able to see him throughout the day is a real privilege however, keeping a date night theme a secret requires a little more creativity.  So, with the help of some rope, sheets and clothes pins, I was able to “enclose” the screen porch and remain unseen while the kids and I began to transform our space into an African jungle.  Throughout the day we cleared out toys, set up a table and chairs and hung pictures from a giant Safari coloring book I found at the dollar store.  What was special about all of this was the fact that it was so much fun for my boys.  They loved dashing in and out of what they called the giant “tent”, coloring pictures and telling Dad that we have a “special room” on the porch! I did have to keep my communication with them to a minimum since I have an extremely verbal 3 year old who loves to tell Dad………everything!

The time came to reveal our “destination”.  I handed Jeff his passport, and we began our Safari.  The evening began with the whole family eating dinner together in the “Jungle”.

We enjoyed some homemade bread and “African Peanut Soup”.  The soup recipe came from my friend Mary who spent time in Africa as a missionary and is an excellent cook.

During dinner our laptop computer was on the table playing an African Safari Travel video.  Our county Library has a “Virtual Branch” that enables you to download videos, music and audio books.  This is a GREAT resource and one that I’ll probably use again and again throughout the year.  The boys really enjoyed watching the animals!

After dinner, our amazing, wonderful, thoughtful, generous servant, friend and babysitter arrived (what a blessing to have such a person in our life!) and cared for the kids as they began their bedtime routine.  Meanwhile, Jeff and I headed out for the next part of our African Safari Adventure.

Living in a metropolitan city like Orlando has its cultural advantages.  Not far from our home a local organization offers an African Drum Class.  So, that’s where I took Jeff.  For an hour we learned how to bang on a Djembes with 10 other students.  We were certainly the newbie’s in the group but we had a lot of fun.  I absolutely must commend my adventuresome husband because, as he would admit, rhythm is not one of his strong suits.  Nonetheless, he fully participated and had a great time.  We left the class laughing at ourselves and somewhat mentally exhausted but the trip to Coldstone Creamery helped to revive us. Okay….so ice cream may not necessarily be “African” but to us it’s UNIVERSAL!!!

The day went so fast considering all of the things that needed to take place.  Running after 3 kids, decorating the back porch, cooking dinner, bathing the children……Oh and getting MYSELF ready amid all of that!   But, I really sensed God’s help and loving kindness throughout the day.  I can’t say things didn’t get crazy at times or that I didn’t doubt that I could pull this off.  But at the end of the day everything came together, and I had a wonderful time with my husband.

Reading the “Freedom to Fail” post on the Romantic Vineyard really helped too.  It spoke about expectations and motivations when planning dates for your spouse.  This was a timely post that helped to refocus my gaze throughout the day.  Even if plans didn’t come together as I hoped (and there are always things that I would have done differently) the objective should remain……to honor and serve my husband and enjoy him as the amazing gift that he is. In this we Honor God.

Talk to you next month!!

Posted by Vicki (wife of Jeff Taulbee)

If you would like to take part in the Weekly Date Night Challenge known as Project 52 – simply click on the button below for all the details!

Posted in Creative Dates, Date Night Ideas, Fun Dates, Project 52 | 8 Comments

Mark Your Calendar

Posted on March 1, 2010 by Debi Walter

I don’t know about you – but Tom and I really enjoyed our “kiss x 2” this weekend!  Since we both read the blog we each had to make sure we surprised the other with a great kiss!  I remembered that I had purchased a Hershey Kiss shaped baking pan a while back, so on Saturday I baked some Ghiradelli brownies in the pan.   I wrote in 8 font on the computer what I love about kissing Tom and cut it into a very thin strip of paper – like what you find in a Hershey Kiss candy.  I set it in the top of the brownies as a way to surprise Tom and thank him for his great kisses.  It was a fun treat for him, and I love chocolate!  Need I say more?

On to the week ahead:

CENTRAL

  • Orlando Festival of Chocolate – Orlando Science Center hosts a chocolate weekend – Saturday, March 6th and Sunday, March 7th from 10a – 5p.  Cost is FREE for members or included with admission to the OSC for those who are not members.
  • Harry P. Leu Gardens – Date Night in the Gardens presents on Friday, March 5th – For The Love Of The Game.  Cost is FREE for members and $7 for non-members.  Gates open at 6p – showtime at 8:30p. Pack a picnic and plan to enjoy a beautiful night out with your spouse!
  • Orlando Museum of Art – First Thursdays March 4th from 6p – 9p.   FREE for members, $10 for non-members.
  • Orlando Shakespeare Theatre – The Greatest of the Greeks – Sunday, March 7th starting at 7p. Join us for this FREE reading series as we bring together great actors to read great Greek classics. They’re short, sweet, sophisticated treats. Just ask Sophocles.

NORTH

EAST

SOUTH

  • Lake Wales – Bok Tower Gardens presents Gordon Bok in Concert.  The son of the gardens founder plays folk music on his 6 and 12 string guitar.  Saturday, March 6th from 7:30p – 9:30p.  Seating is limited and the cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members.  www.gordonbok.com
  • Celebration Porch and Yard Sale – Saturday, March 6th from 8a – 3p.
  • Central Florida Boat Show – Orange County Convention Center – March 5th – 7th.

WEST

Posted in Date Night Ideas, Mark Your Calendars (time sensitive) | 3 Comments

Perfect Harmony

Posted on February 27, 2010 by Debi Walter

We decided to post a bonus this Saturday, since we’ve just celebrated 31 years – this couple has been married exactly twice as long – 62 years!  Watch how they harmonize and make it look adorable!  Although he knocks her off balance, she gets right back up and keeps playing – what an example.

Have you been knocked down lately by life, temptations, or trouble?  Follow your spouse’s lead, get back up and keep playing!  This is how we glorify God by making Him look good in the way we face difficulty and in the way we love one another!

Have a great weekend!

Posted in Growing Strong Marriages, humor, Testimonies | 1 Comment

Freebie Friday: A Kiss

Posted on February 26, 2010 by Debi Walter

When was the last time you kissed your spouse – we mean really gave them a long, unexpected one?   Well, this is our assignment for the weekend.  Are you ready and willing?  Here’s the deal:

  1. It has to be an extended kiss…no pecks allowed!
  2. It has to be unexpected.
  3. It has to be memorable.
  4. And like Zorro leaving a Z to mark the moment – hand them something to remember the kiss by – i.e. A Hershey’s Kiss and/or a card telling them what you love about their kiss.
  5. Enjoy this video to get you thinking…
Posted in Romance, romancing your husband, romancing your spouse, romancing your wife | 2 Comments

Change of Plans

Posted on February 25, 2010 by Tom Walter

I know we mentioned we were going to continue our discussion about the effect words have on marriage today.  However, I’ve decided to whisk my wife away to celebrate our anniversary (Wednesday night), which left us no time to offer a thoughtful post for today.   So, we’ll catch up next week on this topic.

In the meantime, enjoy this writer’s perspective on speaking kind words to your spouse.

Posted in Christian Marriage, communication, Growing Strong Marriages | 3 Comments

Project 52: Alphabet Memories

Posted on February 24, 2010 by Debi Walter

This past weekend we were heading home from a wonderful week away.  We had about 10 hours of driving together with not much to talk about since we’d spent 10 days together alone.  We had talked about everything that mattered and lots of things that didn’t.  We had a great time.

So, as we drove we decided to play the Alphabet Memory game:

Starting with the letter “A”, Tom had to think of a romantic memory representing this letter.  With decades of memories this took some time to choose.  (How can it be possible that we have “decades of memories”?) Next, I had the letter “B”.  It was fun thinking through our marriage and the many places and experiences we’ve enjoyed.  We continued, each taking turns through all the letters of the alphabet!

Winter Wonderland in Banner Elk, NC

We cried, we laughed, and we remembered what we love most about being together – us!  We love the fact that God in His kindness took two completely different people and made them “us” – who are now “one”.  It is a miracle, and one I never want to take for granted.

Remembering romantic moments of the past has a way of motivating us to present action.  We want to continue adding to this list of memories!  And who knows?  The next time we may have to go through the alphabet two times in order to adequately recount the romance we’ve shared!  It is is a good practice to think about what you are choosing to do today, that will become precious memories to you in the future.

Project 52 is sure to be something we all look back on as a time worth remembering, and it is not too late to join:  Simply click the button to go to the blog where you can print off your own pledge.  That’s it!  We only ask that you let us know what you do each week.  This will not only help you for accountability purposes, but it will give all of us much needed ideas.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Posted in Date Night Ideas, Free Dates, Fun Dates, Project 52 | 3 Comments