It has been interesting to read all of the hype, hear about various interviews, and overhear conversations between people about the movie (based upon the book), Fifty Shades of Grey. While I am not in the habit of giving this space over to others, for this week and next week I want to condense and…
The functions of kissing were the subject of a recent study. Researchers wondered what is it about exchanging saliva that couples find desirable. As a part of nearly every culture in the world, kissing has been found to be a great source of information gathering. Now while that may sound strange, think about it. You…
“Why did you let the kids run around in the backyard in their pajamas?” “Why did you eat donuts for dinner?” “Why didn’t you do your homework?” “Why did you say such a hurtful thing?” We ask why a lot. We ask it of our kids, our spouse, and sometimes those whom we supervise at…
Texting and smart phones have brought the world to our fingertips in so many ways. While our parents didn’t have access to these tools growing up – “for better or worse,” we do. They are now a source of both communication and distraction. One research study discovered that nearly 20% of couples feel closer to…
I know that this isn’t an actual word, but it is a term I came across recently that I thought was very fitting. Elevating our children to a level of priority that was never intended and is actually unhealthy for all involved is to what “childolatry” refers. Studies consistently report that couples who do more…
In this final installment of discussing sex, I want to encourage you with a brief look at how to better crawl into connection with your spouse. While that may seem strangely phrased to you, I am wanting you to picture getting into a place of safety. Perhaps as a child you had a favorite tree…
Last week we looked at the Gottman Institute study that demonstrated a connection between day to day partnering and increased levels of sexual intimacy. Over time, the study determined, that the sexual connection was sustained when the wife felt respected and understood. And these two components are communicated by accepting influence from one another and…
Ok – now that I have your attention, let me acknowledge that when many of you see or hear the topic of sex broached in a discussion, a plethora of feelings may wash over you. For some it may involve thoughts of connection and intimacy – for others, an ongoing battleground. While I doubt that…
“This is it! The year when I will finally get that new body that I have dreamed about. Oh yes, I have said that before, but this time I really mean it. I have seen the relentless commercials on TV about the discounted gym memberships. You know – the ones that show carb starved men…
You call your husband during the day to let him know that you are upset with the fact that he forgot to take the trash to the street this morning, before he left for work, as he had promised. Not a big deal in and of itself – but it is about to become one. …