tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67820909295261357322024-02-20T17:37:18.172-08:0040 Day Love DareEric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-26243472341876377982010-08-15T11:10:00.000-07:002010-08-15T11:10:00.330-07:00Day # 40 - Love is A Convenant - JenniferThese 40 days have been <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">incredibly</span> enriching for our marriage. Loving each other in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">different</span> ways the past 6 weeks has put the focus and priority back on our marriage. Isn't that what God intended since his picture of a relationship between a husband and wife is to mirror his love for the Bride of Christ, the church?<br /><br />Last night Eric and I watched our wedding <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">video</span>. My stipulation to us doing this instead of renewing our vows was that we had to watch all 90 min. of it; from start to finish! Our three younger kids sat through it just so they wouldn't miss the "Kiss". Then when it came, Elliot said "that's it?" in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">disbelief</span>, and out of the room they went. Kids are so funny at times.<br /><br />If you haven't started the Love Dare, just do it! It will change your marriage and just maybe your life.Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-36473930321303729432010-08-14T20:02:00.000-07:002010-08-14T20:02:00.613-07:00Day #40 - Love Is A Covenant - EricDay #40<br /><br />This has truly been a great process to experience over the past 40 plus days. Yes, it took us a few extra days to get through the Dares but it was so worth it.<br /><br />Jennifer and I decided on our own twist to this Dare. The vow thing is cool but we wanted to go back to that special day of our marriage and soak it all in - Thank you for the old VHS player we still have.<br /><br />Tonight with our kiddos watching most of it with us we sat for 1.5 hours and watched the video of our wedding. This day was truly Jennifer's day as she worked so hard to plan it all. The plans played out almost flawlessly with over 800 of our friends attending our wedding.<br /><br />Jennifer sang to me that day and it was just beautiful and I mean beautiful. In fact the entire day was simple off the charts. We had a blast that day but I remember that we were both totally exhausted too.<br /><br />It is great to be able to say that we have lived through the highs and lows with all life can give you, and our love has grown and grown over the years.<br /><br />Our deepest pray is that the Lord will keep us close to Him so He can continue to move us closer to each other. Marriage is truly an awesome gift from our Heavenly Father.<br /><br />In closing I want to say that the 40 day love Dare has been a great process for me, as a husband to learn how to better love and cherish Jennifer. I do not think this boy is going to stop and I am not sure you can once you become this intentional!<br /><br />Peace - Cheers and take the DARE!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-6103844930838055912010-08-13T21:52:00.000-07:002010-08-13T21:52:00.205-07:00Day #39- Love Endures - JenniferGetting love notes from our spouse is pretty special, I think all of us would agree. But when we get a note that says I want to grow old with you and I'm committed to you for life, now that's the ultimate gift we could get.<br /><br />Our written commitment to our mate is just as much important in this dare than us <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">receiving</span> it. It goes both ways and is an amazing thing to experience.Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-36655060719719573672010-08-13T16:32:00.000-07:002010-08-13T16:32:00.166-07:00Day #39 - Love Endures - EricPersonal Prayer and Letter/Note of Commitment!<br /><br />Through out this 40 day love DARE the Lord has continually place Jennifer on my mind so my prayer time for her has gone way, way up. That has been very cool for me to experience.<br /><br />The whole idea of giving her something in writing was a great exercise for me and gave me so much to reflect on even though it was not a big, long letter. I hope it gave her some encouragement and reflection on my commitment to her for the long haul/life.<br /><br />The card I received from her was very affirming of her love and commitment to me for years to come. It was great!<br /><br />This is a very well placed Dare in the 40 day process and something everyone going through the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">process</span> will greatly <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">benefit</span> from. Cheers!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-20796477851831308482010-08-12T21:28:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:33:07.221-07:00Day #38 - Love Fullfills Dreams - Eric and JenniferDreams!<br /><br />With only two Dares left we are committed to finish strong.<br /><br />Dreams come in all shapes and sizes, personal, as a couple, family and ministry. This is a rich conversation for a couple to have together. It may take several conversations to get it all out and processed but it is so worth it.<br /><br />We have committed to spend our date nights talking more about our dreams and starting to plan towards them. Intentional prayer time together around our dreams will be important. This is one Dare we are going to really take to heart.<br /><br />Remember that we serve a mighty God and this means we can dream BIG! Go for It!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-82259277705421406632010-08-10T20:45:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:31:46.239-07:00Day # 37 - Love agrees in Prayer - Eric & JenniferDid you know that the most intimate act between a man and woman is prayer?<br /><br />It's the one area that we are the most <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">vulnerable</span>, hiding nothing. I believe that is why <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">satan</span></span> will do anything to keep us from connecting with our mate in this way.<br /><br />We have prayed off and on throughout our marriage, but never <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">consistently</span> or daily. But we are seriously thinking about making this a daily habit. Not just when we are drifting off to sleep.<br /><br />Praying together as a couple has been proven to create more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">fulfillment</span> in every area of your married life. In intimacy, communication, family and children, money matters, and a higher level of happiness in your marriage.<br /><br />So we are talking through what that time might look like for us. It might happen after we get the kids to bed, maybe in the morning before we head to work. Whatever the arrangement, we have to be in agreement and must be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">committed</span>.<br /><br />It's worth a try and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">definitely</span></span> worth the dare!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-81306267650496237182010-08-10T19:06:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:30:04.153-07:00Day #36 - Love is God's Word - Eric & JenniferThis Dare is at a good place in this book. This is a Dare that requires healthy communications and agreement on what you are going to do together.<br /><br />Through out our entire marriage Jennifer and I have always had our own devotional time. One reason may be that we both had developed our style before we got married or we simply <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">operate</span> on two different <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">time lines</span> in the morning. This is not to say devotional time can not be done at night but I like to do it to start off my day.<br /><br />We have the individual thing down on this Dare so can we move to the couple time together? This will be our challenge and conversation as we process the last few days left on this 40 Day Love Dare.<br /><br />Jennifer and I have a great marriage, not perfect but great. I have a feeling that if we can figure out how to get this devotional time down together our marriage would even be greater!<br /><br />The Dare is on...<br /><br />Cheers!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-338932707336679542010-08-09T19:36:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:28:41.349-07:00Day #35 - Love is Accountable - Jennifer & EricThis dare encourages you to find a mentor couple. We couldn't agree any stronger! This is one of the keys to a successful marriage.<br /><br />Five years ago when we started our association of marriage and family ministries we had an older couple who asked us if they could walk this journey with us holding us accountable. See they were very aware that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">satan</span> would do anything to destroy our marriage while we are out trying to save others.<br /><br />By far this mentoring <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">relationship</span> has been the best thing for us. Having a couple walk with us through <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">life's</span> ups and downs, disappointments and joys, victories and defeats. A godly couple we can model our marriage after. It has enriched our marriage tremendously and for that we are so grateful.<br /><br />We love you Wayne and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Bev</span>!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-2258490160366177812010-07-31T21:06:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:27:59.340-07:00Day #34- Love Celebrates Godliness - JenniferWho doesn't want to hear good things about themselves especially coming from their spouse?<br /><br />This is such an important dare. Lifting up your mate for their godly actions. <br /><br />Eric's love language is words of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">affirmation</span> and I have to admit I don't do this often enough. This morning was great, I only had to think for a second to know what I was going to tell him.<br /><br />His loyalty to God, me, our family and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">AMFM</span> is huge. His leadership qualities are untouchable. And his ability to speak truth to any and everyone is amazing to me. He is strong in his faith, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">absolutely</span> unwavering!<br /><br />He sounds too good to be true, but anyone who knows Eric will tell you it's all true. These are the qualities I fell in love with years ago and keep me loving him today!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-51552023749204824372010-07-31T19:52:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:27:00.789-07:00Day #34 - Love Celebtrates Godliness - EricThis was a no-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">brainer</span> Dare for me.<br /><br />Jennifer stopped me this morning and shared some of her thoughts regarding me. As a husband it was very <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">affirming</span> for me to hear what she had to say.<br /><br />For me it was easy to share with Jennifer regarding this Dare.<br /><br />Jennifer is the most caring person I know. She is a true friend, even to people she does not really know that well. She has the gift of service and truly models how Christ walks out life here on earth.<br /><br />She is not perfect, but she is loving, caring, and trust-worthy, that says a lot!<br /><br />She is loyal and this is a value that has been lost in our country, even in the church culture.<br /><br />This Dare is great for us guys. It really makes us reflect on how the Lord has gifted our wives.Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-73552620835364724872010-07-30T20:39:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:25:23.072-07:00Day #33 - Love Completes Each Other- JenniferRemember in the fireproof movie when Michael gives Caleb the example of the rose?<br /><br />Michael tells Caleb that a woman is like a rose, treat her right and she'll <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">blossom</span>, but don't and she'll wilt. This is such a great example for this dare.<br /><br />When a man values his wife's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">opinion</span> and will allow her to express herself she <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">flourishes</span> and becomes self confident. But when we are belittled or thought less of than we are drawn inward and become bitter.<br /><br />Men have a huge responsibility in how they treat their brides. I am very blessed to have a husband that understands this and publicly <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">brags</span> about me.<br /><br />When's the last time you've bragged about your mate in public? Tell them how much you value their opinion and just see what will happen.Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-22583534907234645272010-07-30T05:41:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:23:05.035-07:00Day #33 - Love Completes Each Other - EricMany years ago Jennifer and I stopped everything we were doing and decided to process life together. Try to take the principle of becoming one and live it out. In doing this we made a commitment to each other to include each other in each others lives very intentionally.<br /><br />One thing you learn real quick in your decision making process is to take two separate people and get them on the same page.<br /><br />Also, you must take the time to honor your spouse by allowing them to share their views and express their opinions. This is not always real easy when you are as driven of a person as I am.<br /><br />While in the process of intentionally having your spouse engaged in your life and you in theirs, you find life becoming "your life together" (Our Life, not my life). This will open your eyes to how valuable your spouse is in completing you and not competing with you.<br /><br />You will see how God can bring two individuals together to truly, with Him become one. This Dare can be a WOW factor in your marriage so take the Dare!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-66678438549695883202010-07-29T08:11:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:22:34.940-07:00Day #32 -Love meets sexual needs - JenniferEric says it so well in his blog. You should read his first.<br /><br />As women we have heard a lot on how we should initiating sex more. But that is not always easy when God created us more like crock pots, and need warmed up!<br /><br />If men want fulfilled in their sex life than the best thing they can do is to honor, cherish and love their brides! You can not be harsh with your wife the night before and throughout the next day and an hour before you want sex start being nice and attentive to your wife. It just <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">doesn't</span> work that way!<br /><br />The reason I didn't hesitate when Eric wanted to make this dare a two day <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">affair</span>, was because for the last 31 days he has been caring and attentive to me. He has shown love to me in so many different ways going through the <em>Love Dare</em>.<br /><br />Men, if your excuse for not being honoring and respectful to your wife is because she is not respectful to you then you will remain very frustrated in your sex life.<br /><br />Be a gentleman, step up to the plate and lead in this area!<br /><br />Wives give him a chance, initiate even if you don't feel like it knowing that by the end it will be worth it!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-22157643338073298592010-07-29T05:19:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:21:07.678-07:00Day #32 - Love Meets Sexual Needs - EricOkay, I must admit that I suggested to Jennifer that we make this Dare a two day project, Oh <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ya</span>! and she agreed - Yes!<br /><br />Sexual Intimacy is an issue that is often one of disconnect for so many couples that is why we must take the time to process it. Since it is so private who does a couple go too, to have this conversation, it takes a very safe environment...<br /><br />Here is what I have learned in our marriage over the past 17 years. The Lord truly designed sexual intimacy between a husband and wife to take place as a celebration of their relationship. It is totally off the charts and both spouses are fulfilled when they are living a healthy marriage. If there is a disconnect in your relationship it just does not work like the Lord has planned it to.<br /><br />This is something you must process with your spouse, not just assume they are on the same page with you. Generally speaking, find out what they enjoy and as you serve them you will find your needs are met too.<br /><br />This is a big Dare for some so take the time and process it with your spouse because God has given you both needs in this area, but if they are never expressed you will never enjoy all that God has in this area of your marriage.<br /><br />Note: If this is an area of disconnect or pain in your marriage please spend time in prayer and ask the Lord to prepare you as you communicate with your spouse. The Lord can truly give you a new day with your spouse in your sexual intimacy...Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-53969566554462410592010-07-27T15:32:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:20:16.261-07:00Day # 31 Love and Marriage - Eric & JenniferThis dare is a continuation from the last dare. Leave, Cleave and become one. This is very hard to do if a couple has not severed the ties of past relationships, mainly parents.<br /><br />Both of us are very fortunate to have wonderful, Godly parents. They both have been married over 50 years and set a great <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">foundation</span> for us as we went into our married adventure.<br /><br />Through the years they have been our biggest <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">cheerleaders</span>. They have allowed us to make our own decision as a married couple even when they didn't always think they were good <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">decisions</span>.<br /><br />One example of leaving and cleaving was our decision to take some time off, get a place in Alaska and live there half of the year. Everyone thought we where nuts, everyone. This move as a couple was the beginning of what we are doing today, serving others.<br /><br />As we've been heavily <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">involved</span> with marriage ministry this seems to be a topic that can be at the core of arguments. Don't let that happen to you. Listen to each other, wives understand that your husband is accountable to God for the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">decisions</span> he makes for your family so it's easy to submit to him as head of the house when you realize the big <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">responsibility</span> he has.<br /><br />So, how have you made your move to leave and cleave?Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-70753666566739056442010-07-26T22:06:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:19:30.748-07:00Day #30 - Love Brings Unity - EricUnity - being on the same page and acting as ONE.<br /><br />When I read this Dare it made me stop and think about the last time I had heard a sermon on, leave, cleave and become ONE. This is spoken to at least 4 times in the Bible, but no one seems to preach on it.<br /><br />I learned a long <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">time</span> ago in my marriage that being on the same page and processing life with Jennifer was very important. As you intentionally drive toward each other and remove points of disconnect it is amazing how much the Lord allows your marriage to grow.<br /><br />This Dare is a cornerstone for a successful marriage. Take on this Dare and commit to it. Make it known to your spouse that you are committed to ONENESS then move the commitment to action with your spouse working through the process with you.<br /><br />You can begin this Dare by simply developing an activity that both you and your spouse do together. Walk, hike, workout, boat, the arts, etc..., remember that it is the little things that mean so much over time.<br /><br />Have fun!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-474178795471017202010-07-26T15:06:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:18:59.443-07:00Day # 30 - Love Brings Unity - Jennifer2 becoming 1 - This is the very reason Eric and I have a passion for marriage ministry. Seeing couples learn to be united in marriage. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ecclesiastes</span> 4:12 tells us that "A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." A couple united, with God at the center of their relationship is hard for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">satan</span> to penetrate with his schemes.<br /><br />Find something that the two of you as a couple enjoy doing together. Bowling, running, working out together, cooking, whatever it might be do it together. Then start doing something together that grows your faith. Devotions, praying, serving in church together or maybe your start would be going to church together.<br /><br />These are two ways of becoming one, but the most important that we all have to work at is being one in decision making. Probably one of the hardest things to do at times in our relationship.<br /><br />Eric and I have been working on this concept for 7-8 years now, have we <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">achieved</span> it, we're close, better sometimes than at others but our marriage has <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">benefited</span> so much from <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">intentionally</span> being one!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-84574931171429807452010-07-26T06:31:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:18:31.022-07:00Day #29 - Love's Motivation - EricToday was a fast one but once again intentionality plays such a big role in these Dares and in creating good habits in your marriage.<br /><br />Jennifer and I did not have any time in the office together so coming up with a tangible way to say I Love You did not come easy for me.<br /><br />As for the prayer part, I always enjoy closing my nights and opening my days praying for Jennifer, and the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">kiddos. </span>But as I pray for Jennifer, her needs and the Lord's blessings on her it really drives me to be so very thankful for her. I am blessed!<br /><br />Back to the "tangible thing", Jennifer loves her Starbucks coffee so I picked one up for her. It was a small thing but it was a tangible one. We did have some great hang out time, no kids, just the two of us.<br /><br />Cheers!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-16025627520368679242010-07-25T22:22:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:17:01.779-07:00Day # 29 - Love's Motivation - JenniferToday was a fun dare. I worked from home so we only saw each other in passing this morning. I had a good amount of time to pray for Eric today, and it's amazing how my love for him deepens when I pray for him and his needs and for blessings on him.<br /><br />The dare says to say I love you and then show it in a tangible way. Turn of events made it where I was the only one home when Eric came in the door. I had dinner ready and we were able to sit together and talk by ourselves a whole 10min.<br /><br />Eric's way of showing love to me, besides the normal kiss and hug when he comes home was the quick trip to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Starbucks</span> to get me a coffee on the way to the game. Totally his idea!<br /><br />It was fun just hanging out and enjoying each other's company.Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-63989313533028707972010-07-25T07:57:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:14:51.810-07:00Day # 28 - Love Makes Sacrifices - JenniferThe last hand full of dares have been deep and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">definitely</span> growing opportunities, so this dare came as refreshing to me.<br /><br />This dare reminds me of Selfless love. Instead of how can he meet my needs, it's how can I meet his needs. Isn't that what it's suppose to be in a relationship? It sure was when we were first married when we still had <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">starry</span> eyes for each other.<br /><br />It's easy for all of us to get so busy we don't have time to meet each others needs. We might just have to clear out some of the "stuff" in our days so we can focus on what's really important. Even if that means saying no to some of our kid's activities.<br /><br />Eric was a sweetheart last night. He <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"></span>watched a movie with the kids while I met with some girlfriends, and then washed up the dinner dishes. Wow I was so surprised. He's often good at putting the dishes into the dishwasher which I'm always grateful. But last night he actually washed the big stuff too! Kudos to Eric!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-39275723222992652782010-07-24T20:47:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:13:05.872-07:00Day #28 -Love Makes Sacrifices - EricAll of us can really lock onto this Dare. Asking such a simple question like, what can I do for you today to lighten your load? or How can I serve you?<br /><br />The words seem simple but making it part of your ever day life is not. We are all so busy that we seldom take the time to stop and ask our spouse how we can make their day a little easier.<br /><br />Jennifer asked me today as we where running out to pick me up something for lunch. My reply was, you already have. You have taken at least 4-6 things off my desk this morning and that is a big deal.<br /><br />Me, I called Jennifer on the way home from the office and spoke those magical words, what can I do to make your evening better? She replied with a couple answers and I was ready to give her a hand. So as the evening went on I did what she said would help her and while she was meeting with her friends praying I even clean the kitchen for her.<br /><br />Yes, even I can do some of those very hard duties around the house...<br /><br />This is a great Dare! Take it on and ask the question!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-22215451805254230902010-07-23T20:43:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:11:44.237-07:00Day # 27 - Love Encourages - JenniferHope deferred makes the heart sick. Prov. 13:12<br /><br />Through the years I have been reminded of this scripture which I first read in <em>Hinds Feet in High Places.</em> This scripture has grounded me so many times when I have felt myself become <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">anxious</span>.<br /><br />Christian young women are the best at praying for a godly husband, and when the Lord brings Mr. right into their lives and they marry him they are <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">devastated</span> because Mr. Right isn't at all perfect. Expectations are high in our society today.<br /><br />So let me bring this down to Eric and me. How would you like to live AND work with a perfectionist? I have to admit it drives me crazy at times but I wouldn't want it <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">any other</span> way. See that same personality that is a perfectionist is also strong in his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">beliefs</span>, he <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">doesn't</span> waver or back down when it comes to ethics or morals. He's a leader and that strong lion who can take on the world by himself, is at times just a pussy cat!<br /><br />I knew as a little girl I wanted to marry someone as strong as my daddy. The Lord gave me the desires of my heart.<br /><br />Funny thing, I also wanted three boys and a girl.Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-54440263295351115562010-07-23T19:16:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:10:32.666-07:00Day #27 - Love Encourages - EricOkay - this Dare hits way to close to home for me. How many times have you said this during your 40 day love Dare journey?<br /><br />This Dare is perfect for me as I am told often that I set too high of expectations on others, including Jennifer. Since Jennifer is the one that tells me this I am sure she has waited for me to blog on this Dare before she does. She is checking me out to see if I am going to be truthful, confession is good for the soul - ya right -<br /><br />See in our house this Dare does not really apply to Jennifer, at least in her relationship with me. She is one <em><strong>cool cat</strong></em> on this expectation thing for sure...<br /><br />With out getting into the details today had a few of those expectations come up and I failed. I am sure all of you are glad to know I am far from perfect. This thing we call marriage is work, even for those in marriage ministry.<br /><br />Tonight I will be talking with Jennifer about this so pray for me. She can be a tough one sometimes :-)...Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-12508402879846901492010-07-22T22:33:00.000-07:002010-07-22T22:33:00.207-07:00Day #26 - Love is Responsible - EricAs we talked about this as a couple, the idea of keeping short accounts came up right away. When you are married this is real important. It is amazing how this simple concept of getting issues out and into the open can totally change your relationship.<br /><br />The hard part for me is not saying anything back to Jennifer when I do not agree with the feedback I am receiving. It is hard to keep the big mouth closed...<br /><br />Take this Dare and move forward with a new lease on your marriage.<br /><br />Moving forward with the process, on to Day #27...Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782090929526135732.post-34372538546590431502010-07-22T17:32:00.000-07:002010-07-22T17:32:00.697-07:00Day # 26 - Love is responsible - JenniferAdmitting one's wrong and asking <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">forgiveness</span> isn't always easy especially if we are admitting it to our spouse.<br /><br />This has come easier for me to do through the years <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">because</span> when Eric and I are in harmony it's such a sweet spot. I don't like it when there's discord between us, so it's easy for me to keep short accounts and be quick to ask <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">forgiveness</span> and grant <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">forgiveness</span> just to keep things sweet.<br /><br />It's not always easy to see the parts of us that aren't pretty, that's when I ask the Lord to show me gently where I need to change and it's cool how He does. Do I change overnight? Not at all, it's always a process, but the rewards are amazing!Eric and Jennifer Garciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07718384490266356617noreply@blogger.com2