Many of us expect our spouse to "just know" what we're thinking or feeling. After years with each other, we begin to expect our spouse to know we've had a bad day, that we're tired, or that we want affection. They "should just know," right? Well, that's not realistic! Years of experience make it easier to predict your spouse's response, but it's no substitute for communication. If you want your spouse to know what...

Just like the space shuttle, if you re-enter the atmosphere of your home at the wrong angle, youcould be in trouble. Realize that you and your spouse have different expectations. You're looking for relaxation…your spouse is looking for reinforcements. You can have both if you give the reinforcement first. When you walk in, ignore the mail and phone messages. Talk to your spouse first, and offer to lighten the load...

Unfortunately, many of us are in the demolition business when it comes to our spouse. We tend to be competitive, critical and even condescending. But when it comes to our spouse, we should be a builder—undergirding and strengthening them against the things in life that would tear them down. Here are three building blocks to support your spouse. First, be cooperative. Help accomplish your spouse's goals. Second, be...

You feel like it's flat lined. There's no pulse—not a breath of life remains. Before you pronounce it dead on arrival, there are four basic tools you can use to resurrect that dying relationship. First, patience. It took time for your relationship to need resuscitation; it will take time for it to get well again. Second, determination. Choose to be committed to each other for life, no matter what, and work...

Is it taking your kids to the zoo? Reading them a bedtime story? Sure…good things. But loving your children's mother is absolutely the best thing you can do. Why? Well, a husband and wife, who let their kids know they love each other, provide a secure, safe environment for their children. Here's what a child thinks: "If Dad and Mom are happy with each other, then home is a safe place and a sure thing." A...

Websites like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and Classmates are in the business of connecting people. Long-lost friends and classmates can be easily found, and relationships restored. But there's a downside to social networking, too, especially when an old flame makes contact. In fact, marriages are breaking up over these "re-acquaintances." For some people, the temptation is just too much to handle. Your spouse...

This week we are featuring the 5 most popular Family Minutes from 2010. Today is Number 5...That's often a source of confusion and comedy for men. But understanding what a woman wants is no laughing matter. In her book, For Men Only, Shaunti Feldhahn breaks it down for us. She says that men need to understand that a woman wants to go beyond logic and knowledge in relationships. Women need to "feel" five...