• Communication in Marriage

    How To Show Appreciation To the Love of Your Life

    Growing up, my family had the best tradition at Thanksgiving. Gathered around the table, we would each take our turn and share what we were most thankful for that year. My brother was always funny, as he’d take the opportunity to poke fun at everyone for things that happened throughout the year. But then, right at the end, he’d hit us with the sentimental zinger that always made me and Mom cry. Dad and Mom always said they were thankful for the same thing every year: Family. I don’t remember what I said, but I recall how those words of appreciation reminded us that were weren’t just four people existing…

  • Relationship Advice for Men

    Classic Rules For Dating In The Modern World

    I was listening to a conversation recently between two young single women. These women were gorgeous. And smart. Extremely dateable. What I’m saying is – these are the ones you’re looking for! They were talking about you, Guys. They truly weren’t being unkind, but they were lamenting the lack of romance in their lives. I’m going to just say it – apparently, you don’t know how to date. Certain things never go out of style. Lay’s potato chips. Rock music. ’57 Chevys. And dating. Men have lost the art of wooing a woman. What I have to teach you may not seem groundbreaking because it’s not. It’s not new. But, not…

  • Relationship Advice,  Relationship Trust & Loyalty,  Relationships Take Work

    How To Show Respect to Your Partner

    My husband is a champion drag racer. He’s driven fast cars. Dangerous cars. And I’ve worried. This career we’ve traversed together has stretched our marriage in difficult ways. And in profoundly satisfying ways. Every day felt like a new test as we climbed the ladder with new expectations and no time to get comfortable before the next one arose. One of my biggest challenges, maybe you can relate, has been how to show my husband respect. It’s not that I’ve been outright disrespectful. But, love without expectations seems to be easier to understand and accomplish. But it’s taxing to trust and respect each other, especially on roads you’ve never traveled…

  • Relationship Trust & Loyalty

    Assertiveness and the Four Styles of Communication

    “Never mind. It’s fine.” This common response never actually means that someone is really fine, right? According to a recent study by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, poor communication is why relationships fail. But wait! I thought the reason why do most relationships end was money, sex, and lack of engagement? Well, yes, those things count too, but communication is key in marriage. Active listening to your partner in a way that cements agreement, the banter leading to fun and attraction, the long conversations that instill trust and intimacy – all of these are examples of effective marital communication.  Good communication in marriage is the oil that lubricates the…