When kids talk about the best things about growing up, they usually mention three things: vacations, birthdays and holidays. Next week is Thanksgiving, a time for most families to gather together, play football, watch the parades, and share an extravagant meal. In all the hustle and bustle of preparations and travel, sometimes we forget what we're celebrating. Why not put the "thanks" back into Thanksgiving? ...

We've all been wounded in life. Sometimes by others… a parent who walked out, a spouse who abused you, a child who rebelled. Sometimes it was self-inflicted… bad choices that led to an addiction, an extramarital affair, or a devastating accident. If emotional wounds go untreated, they can cause even bigger problems: depression, bitterness, a lack of trust in relationships. Once the wound is healed, sure, there...

Do you remember your first date with your wife? What about the first time your husband kissed you? Thinking back to those early days of dating is a great way to rekindle the passion in your relationship. If it's possible, re-create your first date or re-enact your marriage proposal. Spend time just sitting on the couch together talking about what you thought the first time you met . . . or when you realized you...

Give your kids a quiz. Make it fun and award a prize to the one who gets the most answers right. You can use questions like: "Where was the Declaration of Independence signed? Who sewed the first American flag? And, who was the king of England during the Revolutionary War?" Do you know the answers? Well, to get them, and to find more questions for your own 4th of July quiz, go here. It's a great way to teach your...

If you're looking for a way to scale back on expenses, why not commit to a credit-free Christmas this year? Resist the temptation to spend money you don't have on material things that ultimately have very little meaning, and provide very little satisfaction. The Christmas season isn't about "things," it's about relationships…. with your family, your friends, your Creator. So, cut up the cards, lock them away in...

As Indians and Pilgrims sat down together that first Thanksgiving day, they not only gave thanks for their food and their bountiful harvest, but also for the relationships they shared with each other and with new friends. So tomorrow, before you sit down to a feast of turkey and all the trimmings, take stock of the relationships your family has nurtured over the last year. Which relationships are stronger? ...

Quick! Name three things you're thankful for. This Thursday is Thanksgiving Day, and most of us will pause and give thanks for our blessings. But what about the other 364 days of the year? Try this: every morning, say out loud three things you're thankful for. I mean it. Even if you're having a really rough time in your life. If you think about it, there are always things to be grateful for—your husband. Your...