-
Sunrise, Sunset
As we look back on 30 years of marriage, we can see the ways our relationship has been like a journey from sunrise to sunset.
-
Positively Live
Chris: I am a realist. I believe there are good and bad people. My wife is an optimist. She believes there are good people and good people who just make bad choices. Sometimes, her positivity causes me to worry, thinking that her naive outlook will get her hurt. Other times, her positivity is contagious. Here is how she tames my negativity and balances us out as a couple. Michelle: I think there are several easy ways to stay positive. I use the acronym LIVE every day and in every situation to remember to approach with positivity. L is for LOVE. Whether the situation is with Chris, a coworker or a…
-
The Power of Gratitude in Marriage
Sharing gratitude for a spouse is the most important predictor of the quality of marriage. This study shows expressing thanks for your partner can protect your marriage from the toxic effects of conflict and hardship. This is true even in the face of financial stress or negative communication patterns. The Many Benefits of Sharing Gratitude Gratitude expresses appreciation for what you have. This is in contrast to constantly reaching for something new hoping it will make you happier. Simply sharing gratitude can lead to increase in physical health and happiness as noted in this study Studies have also shown there are relationship benefits to gratitude such as: In a healthy…
-
Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
Last week we were separated by a business trip. We made a point of connecting with each other each day over the phone, but the physical separation and reality of being in two very separate places is always a bit of a struggle for us.
-
The Music of Us
It never fails. You’re listening to the radio in the car and a song comes on. And it’s THAT song and you can’t help but sing along. The words speak to you, the tune grabs you, and you feel the song all the way down to the depths of your soul.
-
The Shoe is on the Other Foot
The Shoe is on the Other Foot is a ‘fitting’ idiom for our lives and has challenged us to change our perspective. Tom has been nursing an arthritic right ankle, slowing our pace and impacting our lifestyle. I recently fell and broke my left foot and needed a little ‘nursing’ myself. I have not been a very patient patient. At our best, we have joked about tying our bum legs together and crossing the finish line in O-limpic fashion.
-
Gratitude — It’s All Around US
Thanksgiving is our favorite holiday. This year our kids will all be home, from as far-away as Alaska. We love to cook and many hands in the kitchen will make for fun and feast. Our hearts are bursting with Gratitude. This is what we often refer to as the Big “G”. Gratitude is a Powerful Word
