My husband and I were out with friends at a baseball game a couple of weeks ago. Though we were focused more on conversation than the game, my husband always knew what was happening on the field. Occasionally he’d comment on plays or erupt in cheers. A similar thing happens when the topic of sports comes up in conversation. He knows what teams … [Read more...] about Using Your Husband’s Love of Sports to Strengthen Your Marriage
Enriching Marriage
Growing Spiritually With Your Spouse
Are you and your husband spiritually close? Are you growing in your faith together? Though marriage is touted as an environment that promotes spiritual growth, many couples—even those who attend church together regularly—don’t feel that spiritually close. As my husband and I have fallen into routines, we’ve noticed that stagnancy easily … [Read more...] about Growing Spiritually With Your Spouse
Awesome Things About In-Laws
In-laws are frequently the object of stereotypes and jokes that portray them in a negative light. The image of in-laws, especially mother-in-laws, as nosey, disapproving, and overbearing is so pervasive that it’s nearly impossible to find accounts of positive in-law relationships. I’m blessed to have very good relationships with my … [Read more...] about Awesome Things About In-Laws
The Benefits of Couple Friendships
Do you and your husband have “couple friends” (i.e., couples you and your spouse socialize with as a couple)? When was the last time you spent time with them? I’ve always appreciated the couple friendships my husband and I have. We enjoy hanging out with our couple friends and we share meaningful fellowship with them. I recently came … [Read more...] about The Benefits of Couple Friendships
Book Review: Not Your Parents’ Marriage
My husband and I attend a couples’ small group offered by our church. Our group recently read Not Your Parents' Marriage: Bold Partnership for a New Generation by Jerome and Kellie Daley. The basic idea presented by the authors is that you bring with you into marriage expectations based on your past experiences with marriage (especially your … [Read more...] about Book Review: Not Your Parents’ Marriage
His Way Works, Too
A few months ago I found my husband loading some dishes into the dishwasher. At first I was elated—after all, it meant there would be less work for me. As I watched him, though, I grew concerned because he wasn’t loading the dishwasher the correct way…you know, the way I load it. I started giving him some pointers regarding where certain … [Read more...] about His Way Works, Too
Studying Your Husband
How well do you know your husband? I’m not talking about knowing his favorite ice cream flavor, the name of his best friend, or the make and model of his dream car. Do you know what makes him feel loved? What does he do to unwind when he feels stressed out? What encourages him the most? A few days ago I came across some materials … [Read more...] about Studying Your Husband
Reading With Your Spouse
Since the very beginning of our relationship, my husband and I have made a habit of reading together and intentionally discussing what we’ve read. In fact, during the 9 months we dated, we read Russell Moore’s Adopted for Life, C. S. Lewis’ Pilgrim's Regress, and Tony Dungy’s Quiet Strength (what a mix, huh?). As we proceeded … [Read more...] about Reading With Your Spouse