The old saying goes that girls often choose husbands who are like their dads.  How does that sit with you?  Our girls are watching us for an example of what to expect from their future spouse.  Are you kind to your wife?  Do you encourage her?  What about your daughter… do you hug her and tell her you love her?  Are you there when she needs you?  If you aren’t, it’s not too late to change.  Sit down with your...

Before you say "I do," you need to make sure you know your potential mate well. You can probably learn a great deal about them just by noting how they live their life. But whether it's by observing or by discussing, you want to make sure you have a clear picture of their character, their lifestyle and their expectations. Here are some questions to get you started. The answers can help you determine in what areas...

In the midst of gaining great friendships, your child may also find some frenemies along the way. A frenemy is someone who says they’re your friend but who routinely does things to hurt your feelings or stir-up trouble. Disentangling your child from the tentacles of a hurtful “friend” may require a bit of maneuvering on your part. Here are two ways to handle your child’s frenemy. First, help your child understand...

Behind the bratty child may be a workaholic parent. Behind the gossiping man or woman might be an emotionally removed spouse. And behind the alcoholic son may be an abusive or alcoholic father.  We know the truth all too well: Hurt people hurt people. So how can you keep your hurts from leading you to hurt others? Here are 3 ways to break the cycle. First, explore old wounds. Admit you’ve been hurt and try to...

After 15 years of sharing with you through this Family Minute radio feature, I’ve decided to dive deeper in providing truth-filled marriage and parenting advice.  By creating The Family First podcast, I’ll be able to connect with you on a more personal level.  Not only will it allow me to hear your questions, but also will enable me to provide you with answers to your most pressing relational questions.  The...

Each day, our kids are experiencing new things and making new mistakes.  All the while, these moments are shaping and growing them.  As parents, we’re called to come alongside our children and lift them up as they grow.  Here are 5 ways encourage your kids.  First, let them make some decisions.  Seek out opportunities for your child make their own decisions regarding various situations.  After they’ve made a good...

The temperature… a little warmer, the grass… a little greener. The crack of the bat is in the air.  It’s that time of year again – Opening Day of baseball. Guys, remember when you were a child and you played in your first Little League game? Now, you’re grown-up. But just for today, you can relive your childhood dream of hitting that grand slam… and you can do it with your children. Take your kids to a game at the...