This week I would like to share with you a parable someone shared with me many years ago.  I do not know the origin or the author.  The meaning is so simple and rich I am sure it will become one of your favorite stories to share with others.  We all know we are not perfect and that we have flaws and imperfections yet we can all contribute good to others and the world we… Read More

We have been exploring the world of being an active listener and how it will enrich the communication in your relationship.  This is the last in the 3-part series of active listening techniques.  Listening is so important because it communicates to our partner that the words they speak to us have value…which translates to them, the person, that they have value and significance in our lives.  If we truly value our spouse, don’t we want… Read More

Welcome back to the second of three blog posts that will discuss active listening.  As I stated in the last post, listening is super important to healthy communication.  I would even go out on a limb and say that if a couple does not learn to intently listen to each other, their relationship will not grow and mature.   We all know how it feels to be telling our spouse all about something that we… Read More

One of the most common complaints that couples have about each other is their partner is not a good listener… “He does not hear a word I say.” “I think she ignores me on purpose.” “If only my spouse would hear more than the first few words I say!” “I might as well be talking to the wall.” “You must have received an ‘A’ in selective listening class.”   Do any of these seem familiar? … Read More

Don’t we just love new things…a new outfit, new purse, new shoes, new car, even things like a new recipe or new restaurant!  We celebrate new…new baby, new job, new home, and party all night to bring in the New Year!   On Saturday I had the pleasure of watching this beautiful sunrise with my husband and some family members who were visiting.  It was a perfect day with a light breeze, low humidity, and… Read More

Often times we wonder, “What would be the most important change I can make in the way I communicate with my partner?”  That is a very important question.  And the answer may sound simple yet to really put the solution into practice can be quite a challenge.   So…are you ready?  The best communication strategy/skill that will have significant impact in your relationship is:   To clearly, directly and respectfully state what you want and… Read More

What comes to mind when you think of a good investment?  Property, cars, jewelry, stocks and stuff like that?  Well, what is it worth to begin your life with your special someone in the best way possible?  Imagine beginning your marriage focused on understanding each other, sharing your visions for the future, and knowing how to really communicate with each other…not to mention having a good way to resolve conflicts that come up from time… Read More

Our topic for this week’s blog is “Please do NOT give me unsolicited advice.”  In many couples one person is usually a fixer.  They tend to think of themselves as helpful, analytical, solution-oriented and logical.  The other person is typically more of the emotional one.  When the one more connected to emotions needs to vent or simply talk about something they have experienced they would like someone to listen. They are not looking for or… Read More

I am taking a little detour from the usual marriage secrets, advice, and tips that are in these blog posts.  This week’s blog is a humorous story about creative ways to find time for intimacy after a couple has children in the home.  This story was shared by a friend but the origin and author are unknown (or I would be glad to give them credit).  I hope you enjoy!   The only way to… Read More

In my last blog we looked at the importance genuine sorrow plays in the “sorrow and forgiveness dance” we do as couples to come to reconciliation after something hurtful has been done or said in our relationship.  In this blog we will discuss the forgiveness part of the “dance.”   First it is important to understand what forgiveness is not and what forgiveness does not do.  Sometimes it is necessary to empty out any misconceptions… Read More