Working Like a Farmer Needing Rain

Similar to the current weather conditions two farmers were in desperate need of rain.  Both farmers prayed for rain, but only one prepared his fields for rain.  The farmer who prayed and tended to his fields was blessed with rain producing a bountiful crop while the other farmer maintained a barren field.  

I think some members of our society forget relationships need both prayer and work to be productive.  

My wife, Amy, and I had a fun date night recently. 

First, dinner at Turoni's in Evansville where we ordered the Iron Man pizza and added sausage. 

Then a trip to Barnes and Noble for gifts.  The instructions were simple: find something, anything that reminds us of the other person.   

Amy, possesses a unique, recognizable laugh that I love to hear.  When all is quite and we are in separate rooms of the house reading I love to be disturbed by her laughter.  So I headed to the humor section and quickly found a female, comedic author I thought Amy would enjoy.  

While meandering towards the register I grabbed a postcard with John Lennon and Yoko Ono's portrait as well.  Despite the adultery which created their relationship they had a strong love for one another that I pray Amy and I possess.

With my two purchases I headed to Starbucks to meet Amy and exchange gifts.  I arrived first and settled into a booth.  Amy eventually arrived all smiles and giddy.  

She was so excited to show me what she got she could not sit still.  Drum roll please . . . it was a book for our friend and neighbor Julia.  Yeah!  But wait, there was more.  A book for a former student.  Yeah!  Another book, for Amy.  Yeah!  

I began to worry she forgot why we came to this bookstore,  but she had saved the best for last.  A book on gardening for me to better provide food on the table.  Yeah! (This time it is sincere and heart felt).  I was stoked!

My head was spinning from so much new and useful information.  Date night was declared over, I had work to do back home in the garden.

What are your date nights like?

Movie Selection is Key

Why are men always expected to take the lead on Valentine's Day?  Is there some rule written down in a book only women read? In this situation, I put in a movie.

I am a movie fanatic! In my opinion, there is a movie for every occasion and every situation. 

I do watch chick flicks, but I feel a more enjoyable, well-rounded romantic choice will serve both the man and woman better.  

Here are some recommendations for your Valentine's Day viewing pleasure:  

Good Will Hunting - Matt Damon plays a smart, handsome, tough, bad-boy from south Boston who all women gravitate towards.  Throw in some scenes of drinking and fighting and you have the perfect love story all men and women can enjoy together.

"You like apples? I got her number. How do you like those apples?"

Old School - full of drunken, college stupidity.  However, remind your significant other how those days are water under the bridge for you.  Laughter is a great aphrodisiac.   

"Hey honey...everybody is doing it."

Hitch - this border line chick flick will bring back memories if you were a blundering fool in the beginning of your relationship.  Will Smith and Eva Mendes provide the eye candy while Kevin James keeps you laughing. 

Select movie, pop popcorn, mix with reese's pieces, and you are ready for the perfect sweet and salty Valentine's Day. 

Guys do not procrastinate! Other men are snagging the best choices now while you read this post.  Get out there, and happy renting.