“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. …
“The ‘digital highway’ is a street teeming with people who are often hurting, men and women looking for salvation or hope.” – Pope Francis As I read that quote, I pondered its significance and the power of that word “hope.” When we see potential and possibilities, we are “hopeful.” If we believe that things will…
What do you enjoy doing? It might be hiking, watching football, sipping tea, or flower gardening. We all have interests of some kind, with some being quite unique. One of my sons is a veterinary technician. When he first began school to pursue that career field, I think that he figured he would enjoy working…