A “For Rent” sign recently went up in the window of a nearby house. This means we’ll likely have new neighbors moving in soon. I’ve noted previously that Americans have experienced a decline in their sense of connectedness with their neighbors. If we are to carry out the Biblical command to love our neighbors (Matthew 22:36-40), then we … [Read more...] about Welcoming New Neighbors
Rejuvenating Friendships
Fun and Frugal Double Date Ideas
Some time ago we looked at why it benefits couples to have friendships with other couples (read about the benefits of couple friendships here). There are lots of ways to spend time with couple friends, but it can be particularly fun to go on double dates. It’s not always easy to come up with enjoyable and affordable double date ideas. … [Read more...] about Fun and Frugal Double Date Ideas
Making Friends as an Adult
When I’ve written about friendship in the past, I’ve received comments regarding how challenging it is to make friends in adulthood. It seems that the ease and excitement that once accompanied the process of making friends grows wearisome as we get further from childhood. My husband and I have become increasingly aware of this … [Read more...] about Making Friends as an Adult
Writing Supportive Messages in Sympathy Cards
Have you ever been at a loss for words when trying to write a supportive message in a sympathy card? Perhaps you’ve wondered if it’s even beneficial to send one? Cards can be a significant source of encouragement and support when you’re grieving. There’s no one message that is suitable for every grieving individual, but here are some … [Read more...] about Writing Supportive Messages in Sympathy Cards
Embracing Quirks
Sometimes my husband comes into the kitchen as I finish preparing dinner. He’ll share a story or ask me a question as I line up our drinks and food to be transported to the table. I feel it’s pretty obvious at these times that I could use a hand transporting our dinner to the table, yet my husband exits the kitchen completely oblivious to my … [Read more...] about Embracing Quirks
Encourage Others in Hospitality: Be a Good Dinner Guest
When I think about hospitality, I often consider ways my husband and I can bless others in our home. Which friends can we invite over for fellowship? Are family or friends in need of a place to stay while vacationing in the area? Can we host a baby shower or birthday party for a friend? It recently occurred to me that I can encourage … [Read more...] about Encourage Others in Hospitality: Be a Good Dinner Guest
That It May Benefit Those Who Listen: The Harm of Doom and Gloom Advice
“Just you wait until…” I cringe when I hear those words. Why? The vast majority of the time they are followed by doom and gloom advice. Sometimes it’s the veteran wife to the newlywed: “Just you wait until you’ve been married for a few years. He’ll stop making romantic gestures and you’ll by annoyed by the quirks you think are cute now.” … [Read more...] about That It May Benefit Those Who Listen: The Harm of Doom and Gloom Advice
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
