Marriage
Hurricane George
The Great Outdoors Hannah and I were married at The Cottle House in Andalusia, Ala. in 1998, the first “event” ever held at the now well-loved venue. The old house, restored by her parents, George and Brenda Gantt, stood proud on Gantt land, full of vintage charm and Southern grit. George had poured himself into …
Not Cute! Do Spousal Quirks Annoy You?
Special Feature What gets on your nerves? Is it the relentless gnat that invades your personal space? Perhaps it’s the chirp… chirp…chirp of a smoke detector. Maybe the clanking of forks at dinner sends chills down your spine. Often, it’s the small annoyances that cause your eye to twitch. Couples bring quirks into marriage. These …
How to Season a Flavorless Relationship
Special Feature You are ready to enjoy your favorite dish. You take a bite, and Ugh! No seasoning? In an instant, you think, “Should I chew or spew?” You can expect disappointment when certain foods lack flavor. Add salt or a tasty condiment, and your dish becomes palatable and even enjoyable. The same is true …
What Not to Say While Shopping with Your Wife
Special Feature Want a good laugh? Watch men shopping with their wives. There’s the eye roller, the pacer, or the guy who holds his wife’s purse like a football while she tries on clothes. No matter his age, culture, or creed, many husbands will hear these four terrifying words from his wife: “Babe, let’s go …
How to Revive Love
Special Feature Their wedding was beautiful, full of love, happiness, and excitement. Now, the demands of life and lack of consideration have dimmed the memory of their special day. Like a deflated cluster of vibrant balloons, their love has lost its luster. The couple must commit to working hard, not giving up, and making the …
Do U Luv Me, Yes or No? – The Search for True Marital Love
Special Feature Do you remember your first love letter? Was it written by a grade-school crush or the kid you played with in the neighborhood? Romantic feelings predate puberty for most people. Yet, “puppy love” is not limited to crayon-toting schoolmates. Infatuation is often mistaken for love by adults. How do you know when you …
Is He an Afterthought?
Special Feature The festive sounds of Christmas music fill the air, welcoming holiday cheer. You have spent hours decorating and shopping for gifts for your children, grandchildren, and friends. Now, you are almost ready to relax and watch your favorite holiday movies. When you made your to-do list, did you remember to add “make time …
How to Defuse Fiery Conversations in Marriage
Healthy Living The words spewed out like a volcanic eruption, “Just leave me alone!” David’s outburst leaves his wife, Lisa, frozen in confusion. After all, she only asked about his day. Lisa retorts, “Fine! Forgive me for trying to be a loving wife!” What Lisa did not know was that David had just lost his …
How to Prepare for Rainy Days in Marriage
Special Feature A fashion-conscious crowd waits to cross a busy street during a downpour. Their umbrellas dance against the backdrop of fog-draped buildings like a mosaic of mushrooms in a misty forest. Then, out of nowhere, a cab splashes through a puddle, drenching the unsuspecting group. Similar to merciless cab drivers in rainstorms, life sometimes …
