The Couples Post

Jen: As we approach the craziness of a new school year with our kiddos, I am struck once again by how tempting it is to compete with other parents in comparing kid activities. Even when they were in pre-school, I can remember having conversations about where my kids were developmentally and what their achievements were. I can remember how much angst I felt when I thought someone else’s child was achieving more than mine simply because I hadn’t signed them up for enough extra activities. I found myself doubting that we were doing enough to help our children reach their full potential.


The more I’ve lived through hectic seasons of crazy schedules of classes and practices and recitals and performances, the more I realize how much the craziness takes its toll on our lives as a family and especially in our marriage. Trying to make it so I have the best kid brag-rights may be satisfying in the moment, but it does not reflect our closeness as a family. It doesn’t say anything about the way ou…

We hope this summer found you thriving, with plenty of time in the sun to relax and catch up with family and friends.  As these carefree days come to an end, we have some tips to help you continue to thrive.

Fall gets busy --

Janine:  This weekend we celebrated our 29th Wedding Anniversary!  Yay!  
Ken was on call for work, so we couldn't go far, and we didn't want to try to go out for a nice meal, for fear that it might be interrupted.  Here's what we DID do.

Adapted from: 3 Defenses Against Affairs, by William McKenna
People are not getting married in large numbers and why would they? Statistics show that about half of all marriages end in divorce. Television shows and movies often depict marriage in a negative light while leading viewers to celebrate when a character has an affair like it is inevitable and desirable. While no two marriages are exactly alike, there are some very basic and proven ways to “affair-proof” your marriage.