My kids like to communicate with Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. My parents, and Susan’s parents, like phone calls and “old fashioned" hand-written notes. Since their grandparents don’t live in the same city as us, how can I help bridge the gap between my kids and their grandparents?  Well, with Grandparent’s Day this Sunday, I’ve thought about a few ways to do that. First, help them find common ground. For...

I recently thought about some filters our words should have to pass through before they come out of our mouths.  If they don’t make it through all of these 5 filters, they probably should never be spoken. Filter number 1. Do I have good motives? In other words, is my reason for saying it beneficial to the listener or only for selfish purposes? Filter number 2. Does it build up? Words are not neutral. They either...

When someone gives you an unexpected compliment, it can make your day.  So, why not do the same for your kids?  Observe the little things they do every day and let them know they’re appreciated.  For example, compliment your child’s character.  In today’s world, they need all the encouragement they can get.  Point out their integrity, dependability, or loyalty.  Second, let your child know you’re happy to have...

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...

Okay, got the answer?  Well, I think it might be sticky notes. These handy little inventions can be used not only in the office, but also in the home in very productive ways.  I use sticky notes to encourage my wife, Susan, and our children.  Here are some ways that I use these notes throughout the house to let my family know that I am thinking about them…that I love them.  I leave sticky notes on bathroom mirrors...

If you plant tomato seeds, you’ll get tomatoes, right? If you plant cucumber seeds, you’ll get cucumbers. You reap what you sow.  In the same way, the seeds you plant in your relationships determine what you’ll get in return. Do you want your children to be patient, kind and respectful to you? Then sow seeds of patience, kindness and respect to them. Want your spouse to be understanding, loving and loyal? Then sow...

In the hit television show, Undercover Boss, CEOs trade places with their employees.  These unknowing employees train the disguised boss in a variety of hands-on jobs.  Out of his element, the boss struggles to find his footing, but in the process learns what matters most to his employees—both on the job and at home.  So here’s the challenge for you.  Husbands, trade places with your wife for a day.  Wives, walk a...