Susan is an amazing person—she’s a passionate mom to our five kids. And, I am immeasurably blessed to be her husband. But we do have challenges in our relationship. Here are some ways I struggle with Susan. Struggle #1. Susan always understands what she is saying to me but I sometimes don’t understand what she is saying to me. She’ll say things like, “You just need to understand me better” or “You just don’t get...

Whether your wife works full-time at home as a mom or full-time in an office, her life can surely be exhausting.  When you notice her becoming overwhelmed by the stresses of life, don’t fade away and assume you deserve a break.  Instead, be quick to serve.  Whatever the situation may be, take time to encourage and support her.  Rather than rush to relax when you get home from work, ask your wife “How can I help...

If you are a parent, your child makes excuses.  Here’s a few excuses and what you can do.  First, “I’m not smart enough”.  When a child feels like an underachiever compared to their peers, they won’t even try. Help them discover their own strengths.  Talk through any insecurities they may have.  Second, “I’m scared.”  Don’t let your child be afraid to take risks.  Teach them to prepare. . .  then go for it. ...

Recently, my wife, Susan and I took a little vacation to North Carolina with our close friends Jay and Beth. At the end of the week, Jay shared with me some things he noticed about the way Susan and I communicate.  He started by how we constantly interrupt each other when we talk. He didn’t pull any punches and he didn’t stop there. He also said that I talked way too much and didn’t listen enough.  Here’s more on...

A friend of mine with three teen boys once said they never get into fights.  Wow!  I can’t relate to that.  My mom and dad did a good job encouraging me and my two brothers to love one another, and we’re best friends today.  But we still had brotherly brawls and beat each other up on a few occasions when we were kids.  Now, I’m not advocating that, but sibling conflicts do occur.  So try not to get down about it. ...

I’m talking about danger zones that lead to an affair.  Unlike road hazards, they are not always clearly marked with orange cones.  And, if you are not careful, you may hear yourself saying, “How did this happen?”  Here are some ways to help you steer clear of danger.  First, do you have an “office spouse” that you confide in?  Be careful.  Personal conversations should be reserved for your real spouse.  Second,...

One of my favorite parts of wedding celebrations is the father-daughter dance.  I’ve already enjoyed dancing with my three girls on various occasions but am looking forward to sharing this special moment with each of them when they get married. If you're a dad who has a daughter, don't wait until her wedding day to dance with her.  In fact, dance with her as often as you can. Why? First, dancing with your daughter...