What Is Good Communication?

It seems to be getting harder and harder for folks to communicate anymore. With all of the modern technology at our disposal one would think it’d be easier. However, I’ve noticed with many couples that it breaks down even faster than before. The “he doesn’t listen to me” or “she … Read More

Words Have Meaning

Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” Really? How about “Actions speak louder than words.” I suppose both thoughts have merit.  However, our words and ways we use them can have a profound effect on those around us. The words we use with our loved … Read More

Life in the Ivy Patch

I have (reluctantly) been doing yard work.  There is one section that is overgrown with ivy (English, not poison) and has been overgrown with for so long now that I am uncertain if there ever was a yard there. (I have a faint memory of a yard.)   I have learned … Read More

Rules of the Game

In any game, there are clear rules, guidelines, time-outs, and borders. If someone decides to play outside of the rules, there are clear penalties or the player might even have to take back the move and lose a turn.  Sometimes, the rules are so detailed that the rules themselves become … Read More

Clock Watching – The First Three Minutes

In his book, The Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work, John Gottman writes about predicting the outcome of a conversation between a couple based on the first three minutes of the interaction.  If the discussion begins with a harsh tone, inevitably it will have a negative ending.  Maybe it isn’t … Read More

Men – Get your feeling words ready!

Women are happier in relationships when men feel their pain, suggests research at Harvard Medical School. The study examined videotaped discussions between 156 heterosexual couples about a frustrating, disappointment or upsetting incident in their lives. The researchers also surveyed the couples on their overall relationship satisfaction and measured their ability … Read More

Talk About It

Were you ever the kid in class that when you knew the answer to a question the teacher asked you would be raising your hand, waving it all through the air and go “ooh, ooh, I know, I know?” Neither was I. However, there were some who did. I often … Read More

Are online relationships really affairs?

This is a question that has been increasing debated as technology has become a big part of day-to-day life. We have seen couples in the public eye crumble and others stay together after an online relationship comes out. If this issue hits closer to home and happens in your relationship … Read More

Taxing Relationships

Taxes.  A controversial topic to be sure.  Some of us pay a much higher rate than we would like. Everyone pays.  Recently, as I was working on my return (and complaining) I was struck with the thought of how I implement a form of taxes in relationships.   Maybe you … Read More