We all have times when conversation flows pretty easily, as well as other occasions when communication can be strained. Then there are those times when it is downright difficult. So, what can you do to jump start your conversations with your mate? I want to suggest 4 strategies today to help reinvigorate your communication. 1)…
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Remember when you were dating your future spouse and you seemed to agree on everything? You wanted two children and so did he. You both liked Italian food, wanted to travel, enjoyed hiking, and had the same spiritual goals. Nothing could be better. However, once you got married, you discovered that you weren’t quite as…
Details“The stories we love are filled with struggle, conflict, and failure, yet so often the stories we present to others are a highlight reel of accomplishments, perfect meals, and sunny days.” – Brian Bailey. As I reflect upon this quote, I realize the many ways that we see the truth of his statement. Think about…
DetailsI learned an important lesson last week. We were cleaning out some things from our downstairs and had put in a pick-up call to Goodwill. As my wife was giving them a list regarding any larger items, which included two TVs, she discovered that they don’t accept TVs anymore. She assured them that they are…
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Now that I have your attention, you may be thinking a variety of things. Some may say, “Nothing is better,” while others may think, “Lots of things are.” Regardless of which camp you may fall into, sexual intimacy, when approached with love in a lifelong relationship, is potentially one of the most bonding activities a…
DetailsDo you ever wonder, if you could be a fly on the wall at your office, your home, your friend’s house, or even your church – what would you hear people saying about you? Would they speak of your kindness and generosity or are they more likely to be discussing your self-centered arrogance? Do people…
DetailsRecently, an article in the Chicago Tribune addressed problems that can occur when couples don’t like to watch the same TV shows. One person lounges in the living room watching crime shows such as Law and Order and NCIS, while the other holes up downstairs binging on the sports channel. While an occasional watching of…
DetailsIt’s been a long and stressful day at work. You come home, looking for a little relief, support, perhaps even some affirmation. But what you get is . . . more stress, unmet expectations, invalidation, and down right meanness. Today it crosses the line of your ability to tolerate and you say – “that’s it. …
DetailsI recently came across a thoughtful article written by psychotherapist Winifred M. Reilly. While she discussed the naïve optimism that most of us enter marriage with, she went on to list 35 lessons that she had learned in her 35 years of marriage. I have selected my top ten favorites to share with you here. …
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