The Essence of Marriage

I came across this article called The Essence of Marriage by Dennis Byrne in the Chicago Tribune Commentary Section yesterday and felt it was worthy of consideration, especially when the faith argument is removed from the equation.  While I am a firm believer in what God intends for marriage, I ask that you open your [...]

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Husband Appreciation Day

Yesterday, April 20th, was Husband Appreciation Day. Not often do I see comments from Facebook friends about their spouses that inspire me, but one friend posted more than 50 items on what she appreciates about her husband.  The list is well thought out, fun, and filled with a few behind the scenes secrets. There are [...]

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Grocery Shopping

Over the past month, I’ve been doing secret observations of couples in the grocery store and how they interact while shopping together.  I’ve reached the conclusion this is not an enjoyable activity for most couples.  I used to think it strange that my father-in-law enjoyed shopping alone at 6:30am on weekday mornings.  No longer. Here [...]

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The Heart to Mouth Connection

This spring, my husband and I have been part of a couples small group where the main topic of study is from Matthew 12:37 (NLT) – “For whatever is in your heart determines what you say.”    I’ve discovered this verse, along with many others, provide ounces of soul-piercing truth.   Here are a few more that [...]

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Thunderstorms

While sitting at my desk this morning listening to the rumble of thunder as spring storms approach, I am reminded of the storms every marriage encounters.  For some couples, challenges arise on the honeymoon.  For others, the storms clouds roll in a year or two into marriage, or once children arrive.  Thunderstorms are part of [...]

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Apologies Required

One of the greatest skills to acquire in marriage after a disagreement is the art of a true and sincere apology.   For some, this may seem like surrender, but surrendering pride is exactly what God wants us to do.  Proverbs 13:10 (NLT) tells us, “Pride leads to arguments; those who take advice are wise.” [...]

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Selfless Love

I am one who believes the romance and love of Valentine’s Day is something to weave throughout a marriage continually, not on one day established by Hallmark. Also, there is message Hallmark leaves out of the equation in their advertising and cards…sacrifice. I imagine they wouldn’t sell a thing if a card said, “I will [...]

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Marriage Tips

There are numerous marriage tips available and it becomes difficult to sort them all out, and decide which are the best ones to implement. Well… hopefully I can resolve your dilemma. Recently, I was interviewed by WHCF Radio out of Bangor, Maine on marriage tips for the 40-day Love Dare Challenge the station is doing [...]

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Fairytales

The Sex, Marriage and Fairytales video I came across this week  is done by a talented young man who is taking YouTube by storm with his inspired lyrics and unabashed love for God.   He speaks boldly and with such eloquence for someone who is not even married; yet, his message is one that every [...]

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Real Marriage

A new book came across my desk this week by Mark and Grace Driscoll entitled, Real Marriage – The Truth About Sex, Friendship & Life Together.  Touted as the talk of Christian publishing circles months before its release, I had to take a look and provide my honest appraisal. One thing the Driscoll’s do well [...]

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Finding the Right Mate

For those who have been devoted followers of my blog in the past, I apologize for my long absence.  My intense focus in 2011 was to complete my undergrad and start my master’s program in counseling.   I’m happy to report I accomplished both goals and look forward to spending more time writing.   I appreciate your patience, [...]

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Immunity

This month there is a word that God keeps tossing my way -  immunity.  I keep asking, “What do you want me to do with immunity?”  I finally figured it out while working on a project, which required me to consider how I would counsel a friend or colleague who has fallen into sexual sin.   So, [...]

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Uninspired

From time-to-time, in every marriage, there are periods where inspiration to connect, have fun, and try new things has vanished.  The energy to move forward simply isn’t there, and a lackluster attitude permeates the heart of the marriage.   Everyday activities and weekend plans are vanilla flavored instead of chocolate inspired with bits of toffee or [...]

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Money Matters

Money issues will be a source of arguments in almost every marriage.  Money is often what we value for security, it’s what we survive on, and it has many emotional responses behind it.  There was a great article in the Chicago Tribune on June 12, 2010 that you can read here.   While I am not a [...]

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