A Swiss art collector recently paid $19,000 for what was presumed to be a 19th-century German portrait. Later, it was discovered that the portrait was actually painted by Leonardo da Vinci… and worth more than 150 million dollars. After you’ve been married for a while, it’s easy to take each other for granted… to assume your relationship isn’t worth much… to lose sight of just how valuable your spouse is. But if...

It’s natural for us to expect things from people.  We expect hard work from our co-workers, obedience from our kids, and support from our friends.  But when it comes to our spouses, the bar can sometimes be raised unreasonably high.  I confess, I expect too much from my wife.  First, I expect my wife to be the mediator between me and my children.  Rather than handle situations on my own, I delegate conflict to her...

First, not showing their husband respect.  Respect his judgment.  Don’t constantly second guess his decisions.  Respect his abilities.  So, he may not be Mr. Fix-it.  Give him a chance.  Second, not affirming him as a man. Tell him you think he is handsome.  Thank him for being a good father and provider.  Third, they let their life revolve around the kids.  Remember, at some point, they will leave the nest. . ....

We all make mistakes.  That’s a given.  Here are 5 of the biggest mistakes men make in marriage.  First, they don’t think of the needs of their spouse.  So, when you schedule a date night with your wife, plan ahead.  Don’t wait until you are ready to walk out the door and say “what do you feel like doing?”  Second, they don’t listen. Don’t assume you know what she is going to say.  Just listen. Third, they try to...

Tonight’s trick-or-treating and Fall Festivals will be all about the kids—from silly costumes and practical jokes to bags stuffed full of candy.  So, once the last bit of candy is eaten and the kids taken care of, make tomorrow all about you and your spouse. Surprise them with a Fall date!  Take a drive through the countryside and admire the changing colors of the leaves.  Grab dinner and something hot to drink,...

The moment you said your vows, you promised everything to your spouse…your love, your time, your forgiveness…and your money.  Rachel Cruze, daughter of Dave Ramsey, has written a guest post on my blog about the importance of teamwork in your marriage when dealing with money.  She recommends making a family budget together.  This should be a budget that you and your spouse discuss and then ultimately agree to stick...

Well, your spouse is not the enemy. But sometimes husbands and wives can find themselves keeping a marital scorecard. They keep track of who spends more, disciplines more, does the dishes more, cleans more, mows more, and works more. If couples aren’t careful, they can become bitter and resent the other for not helping enough or for having more fun. So, if you find yourself keeping score, what should you do? Start...