HOT Summer

Some guys profess their love with flowers, but not my Maurice!

This summer, I experienced a surprise that will stay with me forever. It was a hot, sunny day, the kind that makes you dream of poolside lounging and cool breezes, but my husband had something else up his sleeve. Out of nowhere, he called me outside. He had a surprise. I had no idea what to expect—a cute summer dress, maybe? A dinner reservation? But when I stepped out, I couldn't believe my eyes. There, gleaming under the sun, was a brand-new, fire-engine-red Chevy Blazer!

To say I was shocked would be an understatement. This was the car I’d admired for so long, always drawn to its sleek design and sporty look. The red color was perfect for summer, bold and vibrant, and the Blazer itself just screamed adventure. It was as if he had brought a bit of the summer sun down to earth just for me. And let me tell you, the first time I slid behind the wheel, I felt like a million bucks.

Now, every time I hit the road in that gorgeous EV Blazer, I can’t help but smile. It’s more than just a car; it’s a reminder of his thoughtfulness and the excitement of a summer surprise. Here’s to many more sunny drives and memories in this “hot” gift of a lifetime from the hottest guy ever!

 

Winter Romance: Four Ideas for when you are NOT in the mood

(This blog post contains affiliate links that we may receive compensation for if you click them, but we do not mind if you do :)

When it is cold out and the snow is falling, things can happen! This is baby-making season as some say, lol. However, the reality is that as much as we may be showing physical attention to our spouses, we may not be meeting their emotional needs. Romance (especially for a woman) is so much more than sex. In the winter season, the fact is that stress and sadness can cloud our attempts at being and reciprocating romance. As much as we are physically together, we may actually be very distanced in other ways. Depression, grieving and anxiety can take a toll on a marriage especially around the holidays.

Some couples seem to have it all together. They happily celebrate the highs in life and support each other through the lows. Everything looks so perfect from the outside. Yet we all know that any good marriage takes much work and intentionality. We have to be willing to give and willing to receive. You may not always be in the mood either. Heck, you might not even like your spouse right now, but we have to rely on the Lord to make these relationships work.

Romance reminds us that the other person is thinking of us. We have four great romantic ideas to share that will not add to the stress of the winter season. While they may seem unconventional, try them and let us know how it goes!

Mood buster #1: Reminisce good times

Recalling happy times together can cure the winter blues sometimes. We like to look at older pictures and even the video of our wedding day and honeymoon together. Romance does not have to be expensive. It has to be meaningful.

We often worry about the future so take a moment with your spouse to relive the good. Recollect details about events and people and relish those memories. Make them smile.

Mood buster #2: Pray Together

Yes it is not on most people's list of "most romantic things to do with your spouse", but we guarantee that it is!! How much more intimate can you be than approaching the all-powerful throne of God as a couple? In the book of Genesis, Adam and Eve hid from the Lord together, but what could have happened if they confessed their sins to Him together instead?

Even praying for your loved ones and each other's personal needs touches a deep place in the heart of your spouse. It is one of the most romantic things that you can do.

Mood buster #3: Get Warm!

If you have been following the blog for a while, you know that Anita gets very cold in the winter. Something as simple as taking a warm shower together or cuddling for longer in bed (without expecting anything) can be very romantic for her.

Another suggestion would be talking by a fire with some cocoa after a cold walk outside. See how that works - cold, then warm....and maybe HOT if you get lucky, lol.


Mood buster #4: Gifts

Recently, Maurice surprised me when I came home, just because. It was a beautifully wrapped box of chocolates. Thoughtfulness goes a long way in a marriage. Often it is the little things (like the fact that he knows that white chocolate is my fav), that makes a difference.

Maybe food is not the gift you should give. It may be an experience or perhaps a book. There are several really great gifts out there and we would like to offer you our sale code through this link to ChurchSource. Options abound, but gifts that draw your spouse closer to God are priceless. Here is a tip for the guys. Click the link below or ask her to pick something out for herself, especially if she likes to shop!

Get her the perfect gift from ChurchSource.com!

Sometimes it is not even the gift itself, but how it is given that matters more. Some people like surprises while others want to know exactly what is about to happen. You know your spouse best. Even when you are not in the mood, no one can romance them like you. Make an effort. Keep your marriage fresh and alive, even in the dead of winter.

Holiday Shopping for Tween and Teen BOYS

Ah...the boys! Well, after some hilarious discussion about how they would NOT be getting a million dollars for Christmas or a car or other outrageous gifts, we finally got a real list of potential items for a twelve and thirteen-year-old.

When they reach this age, they know what they want. We find that other people ask us as the parents what our boys want because they are also at a loss. We try to get their lists early so that we can, first, get over the emotional shock, and second, actually see what is affordable.

So here it is:

Twelve-Year-Old

1. Nintendo Switch console
2. Fortnite game for nintendo switch
3. Zelda Breathe of the Wild for nintendo switch
4. Carrying case for nintendo switch
5. Nerf Nemesis
6. Beanbag chair for my room
7. Spygear
8. SD card
9. Hotwheels
10. Beyblades
11. Kpop BTS sneakers (black canvas - RM)

Thirteen-Year-Old

1. Nintendo switch
2. Fortnite game for nintendo (if you get the switch)
3. Money
4. Amazon Fire 10
5. Nerf Nemesis (if you love me)
6. 32 GB SD card (if you get Amazon Fire 10)
7. Wireless earphones (bluetooth please)
8. Giftcards (Amazon, Five Below, Walmart)
9. Cellphone
10. Credit card

It was explained to them that a list is just that, a list. It is not a promise or a contract at all! IF we decide to get you something for the holiday as part of tradition, you will be grateful. We are not trying to raise kids who are demanding, ungrateful and entitled.

As you can see, our older son was much more specific, but copied off his brother too, lol. They often want the same things since they are fifteen months apart. Too cute! After compiling their lists, we attempt to get at least one of the things they really want at a discount or sale. We have even traded toys and gifts with friends who have kids close in age. For instance, last year, Chay got a scooter that was brand new from a friend at church who's kid was no longer interested!! Those run at least $200-$300!

Another idea is for the boys to go online and see how much these things cost. They often will shrink their lists for us once they realize that we don't live like celebrities. It is wisdom to help them to count the costs.

Christmas is about giving anyway, so we also encouraged them to make another list of things they can give away. That one is taking a bit longer! BUT, I do encourage you to follow my instagram stories this December for our instamas vlog through the holidays! www.instagram.com/anitamckaney

Gift-Giving Guide for Christian Couples

Buying gifts for your spouse can be a really fun experience if you know them well. As the holiday season approaches we are all preparing to buy gifts for many people. We have experienced times when gift-giving has been hectic and other times when it has been a joy.

Here are a few tips before we offer you a few of the best deals out there for couples right now.

(This post does contain affiliate links that we may be compensated for if you click them - so we don't mind at all)

1.  Pay attention. Know your spouse well. I know this goes without saying, but when buying gifts you want to take note of what your spouse really loves and what they really do not.

Notice when they smile, when they linger over certain items in the store or make comments. Be a detective and take note!

I really do not like chocolate much, but Maurice used to buy me chocolate all of the time. Once I purchase a men's devotional for Maurice but then realize later that it merely collected dust. These were not good gift choices for us obviously!

2. Be wise.  It is so important that you are on the same page financially with your spouse. Buying gifts can be a pleasure but it can also be a detriment to your finances.

You may need to discipline yourself to save money for a special item, but giving with heart is so much sweeter!

A husband may want to "surprise" the wife with a $5,000 upgrade on her wedding ring which would be very nice, but you could be really surprised that you are still paying for that gift 5 to 20 years later!

One is usually the spender and the other the saver. Plan accordingly. See this post for more on managing your money as a couple.

3.  Ask the Lord for help. As cheesy as that may sound Maurice and I have learned to put God in the center of everything!

God knows your spouse better than you do right? He can direct you. Give gifts that make your spouse better, not harm them. We should never give gifts that will indulge sinful habits or addiction.

Not all gifts are tangible, especially for married couples (as you know)!  your spouse may prefer an experience of sorts rather than a gift that comes in a box.  Get creative with the Creator!

NOW... We have come up with a  few ideas for gifts for engaged or married couples.  It does seem to be getting harder and harder to find things that christian couples can both enjoy, so we have scoured the internet for you and found some amazing deals!

Together Shop



Our new store with two lists: Gifts for Her and Gifts for Him! New items added daily!

OOLA Tea

A great variety of teas infused with healthful essential oils!





*** Every purchase feeds a family and we are proud to support such a giving organization ***

PatPat.org

A clothing site for families.



Christmas Family Outfits up to 70% off - New Customers get 10% off, enter code NEWCUS10, love PatPat

*** With additional purchases, you get higher percentage off coupons! ***

ChurchSource.com

A website for christian books and gifts.





*** Also, get up to 60% OFF couples books, bibles and gifts with our LINK!! ***

Find your spouse a bible, christian T-shirts, mugs, decals and MORE.


We hope that this is helpful to you and your spouse. Wishing you a very Happy ThanksGIVING!!

Best Marriage Resources!

We are huge proponents of christian marriage resources out there!  When we were married 17 years ago many of these resources were just coming out.  Whether you are a newlywed or a seasoned veteran in marriage, it can still be challenging to discern which ones are truly helpful for your particular marriage needs.

While there is lots of help available now, we still choose to focus on small group Bible study. The Word works! Although we do refer people to marriage counseling (because we are in no way experts ourselves), mentoring has a more profound impact in the marriages that we have had the opportunity to walk alongside.

It is great if a wife wants a woman's conference and if sometimes, the guys want a getaway to work on themselves as husbands. However, we find that there is nothing more effective than when a couple work together in seeking God's Word as an authority towards their marriage.

We have participated in several small group studies for married couples. One of those groups is currenting using the resource, "Building a Marriage that Really Works", a Precept Ministries International - 40 minute Bible study. This study literally allows you to discover the truth about marriage for yourself in the Bible. It could be done alone or in a group setting. We suggest it for any initial marriage bible study.

Precept.org

We have also have the privilege of participating in and facilitating several studies in the Homebuilders couples series by FamilyLife. These are best used in a group setting. It promotes fellowship and accountability among married couples.

FamilyLife.com

Years ago, we were able to attend "The Art of Marriage" conference also by FamilyLife.  The object was to get to the heart of God's design so that your marriage could be a masterpeice. There is a workbook (shown below) as well as a video component which is insightful and put together in a thought-provoking way. Couple's testimonies are included as well as breakout session options. We thoroughly enjoyed it!

FamilyLife.com

We highly recommend Precept and FamilyLife because they are trusted biblical resources for your marriage. We have only listed a few of the many options that are available through these two ministries.

It must be said that the Word of God, the Bible is the BEST resource for marriage. It was written by those inspired by God who is the author and founder of marriage. Read it FIRST and compare all other study to it.


This post is not sponsored and we currently have no affiliation with either ministry, but we want and encourage anyone seeking a biblical relationship to explore what they have to offer.

Christmas 2012

My Christmas meditation:

This Christmas season I find myself in the book of Isaiah recalling all that the prophet foretold of Jesus Christ. I noticed that he is King of kings and Lord of lords, The Mighty God and the one who's Kingdom has no end. The thing that strikes me the most this year is that the government would be upon His shoulders. I asked the Lord what that meant. The Holy Spirit tells me that He is the upholder of every ruler (ie, kingdom) of the world. He bears the weight of all leadership. Government is His burden to bear, not ours.

I am a voter but I am not highly involved in politics for a reason. I am an Independent and rightfully so. My Lord and ruler is not of this world. I am merely an ambassador of the Kingdom of God here and am Holy Royalty at home. The other kingdoms, rulers, leaders and kings of this world are under His government. I thought that was a great encouragement considering the current state of affairs of this world. I simply cannot spend my time arguing about being a Democrat, a Republican, a Constitutionalist or otherwise. My mission and mandate in this brief life is to represent the Kingdom of God on this present earth. One day, praise God, there will be a new heaven and a new earth. Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is indeed Lord and Christ, The mighty God and The everlasting Father whose Kingdom never ends. Hallelujah! Merry Christmas!

Lil' cousin with his new toy microphone. Classic!

Lotta gifts, but the only one that matters is our hearts and lives for Jesus!

My Holiday get up.

Kaz's Christmas loot!

He wanted this snuggie so badly. Thanks grandma :)

Chay was under the weather, but still managed to open his gifts on Christmas.

Soooo handsome....if I may say so myself. Totally biased and I don't care <3

Tru-Image ministers to the elderly for the Christmas season.

Train them up in the way they should go...thinking of others and what they can give.

Reading the Christmas story as a family. Priceless $$$

A superhero with the Armor of God

The day after Christmas

What to play with first...decisions, decisions! O to be a kid again...