Someone described Facebook as the “best of” a life – a highlight reel.  And, while it’s great to share life’s successes, it is also important to stay grounded in reality.  So, how can you keep from experiencing negative Facebook emotions?  First, don’t believe the hype.  Life is not just the good times, but the tough times as well – and everyone has them whether they reveal them or not.  Second, share in others’...

  Well, the conventions are over and November 6th is fast approaching.  What have you taught your kids about the political process and the privilege of voting? It’s never too early to teach them about their responsibilities as a citizen.  So, what do they need to know? First, freedom relies on widespread participation in the electoral process.  Second, free speech should come with common courtesy.  Your kids need...

  At the Jacksonville Jaguars, they are.  The theory?  New head coach, Mike Mularkey says “. . .the happier you are with your wife, the happier you are on the field.” So, in honor of the Jaguars on this NFL kick-off day, here are 4 tips to become a better spouse.  First, do a random act of kindness daily.  Do the dishes for your spouse.  Give your spouse your undivided attention when they get home.  Second, know...

  One of the best things you can do as a parent is to strive to live a model life that is worthy for your child to follow. Here are 5 ways parents can be a role model for kids. First, model consistency.  Your child needs to see that you are the same person no matter who you are with. Second, model control over words. Words matter. Make sure the words that come out of your mouth toward your spouse, your child, and...

  The light turns green. . . you start to cross the intersection. . .you’re blindsided. . . you suffer serious injury. . .and your world changes in a moment.  Physical pain.  Emotional pain.  No one is immune.  But, it’s what you do with the pain that matters.   Will it be a stumbling block or just a hurdle?  The Paralympic Games begin today in London.  These athletes embraced their pain and let it guide them to...

Just as a wrecking ball will eventually bring down a building, some habits will eventually wreck your marriage.  You keep score. . . keep secrets. . . or keep talking - without listening.  So what can you do to repair the damage and reinforce the relationship?  Commit to replacing your old habits with new ones –  help your spouse without expecting anything in return,  be open with your spouse about everything, and...

In a report from the National Survey of Families and Households, over 1,000 married adults said they were "unhappily married.”  Five years later, the same people were interviewed again. Nearly 80% of the couples who decided to stick it out and stay together considered themselves "happily married" and "much happier.”  Of the couples who got divorced, only 19% reported being happy. The moral of the story? If you’re...