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Try Something New
How long has it been since you tried something new together as a couple? Recently we decided to try something completely new to us, and we were surprised how much we enjoyed it.
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Teamwork
We received a request to share on the topic of teamwork. Good topic! Every marriage is based in teamwork – we chose our partner to team up with in life. Like most marriages, we have had times when we pull together in the same direction and times when we are fighting against each other. Over the years, we have found ways to maximize working TOGETHER as a team.
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Good Grief
Learning how to grieve as a couple has been a process. Ten years ago, we stumbled through intense grief together for the first time when Mel’s Dad died. Together we learned to navigate the memories, tears, and the occasional meltdown.
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Marriage Mentors… Got One?
Mark’s parents have been married 53 years and are an amazing example of a successful marriage. We are so grateful for the way Mom & Dad have mentored us throughout our 24 years of marriage.
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Assume Positive Intent
I (Mark) can be pessimistic at times and it seems natural for me to assume negative intent. I prefer to look at all angles and outcomes, with emphasis on worst case scenarios. An example was when Mel forgot to text me when her plane landed as she was going to visit her mom in Phoenix. I judged that she didn’t care as much about me as she did for her mom. When Mel finally did call and tried to share her excitement about being with her mom, I quickly squelched her excitement with my accusatory tone and cutting words.
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Opposites Attract?
While out for dinner recently, we placed our order with the server and once again said, “Opposites attract!” Mark enjoyed meat and potatoes with a glass of sweet white wine, and Mel had fish with a dry red wine. We remarked on how opposite our orders were and reminisced about our differences and how they have impacted our marriage.
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What is Sexy?
We have been married for over 24 years and our attraction to each other is as strong as ever. So, we asked ourselves what has been our secret to lasting passion in our marriage? Sex appeal can be very subjective. What is sexy to one is not to another. How do we navigate these preferences within our marriage? What can we do to make sure our marital sexual relationship is filled with blazing passion that lasts? If you are on the edge of your seat waiting for the answer, you are in for a treat.
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What Makes a Good Gift?
Our youngest child graduated from high school this spring, and our gift to him was a grad party. Grad parties are a big deal where we live – white tents, catered food, a fancy cake, and a display of photos of the graduate growing up. And, of course, that pretty box for guests to place their cards!
