Every year, in the Tour de France, thousands ride their bikes over 2000 miles through the French landscape.  During the 23 days of the race, they climb mountains, and struggle against the elements…with only 2 days’ rest.  Years of training develops physical endurance to help them finish the race.  But the value of endurance isn’t just physical; it also applies to your marriage.  The ability to persevere through...

When teens are out of school they spend more time behind the wheel. That’s why they’re at greater risk during summer break. What can you do to help protect them?  Start by reminding them of the rules for driving and riding in a car. Insist that they wear their seatbelt. Let them know that driving is a privilege. Make sure they understand the dangers of speeding, drinking or texting while driving. Encourage them to...

According to a recent iMOM poll, the three things that couples argue about most are money, communication and discipline.  Sound familiar?  Conflict is natural in a relationship.  But sometimes, a small disagreement can escalate into a full-blown shouting match.  A useful tool couples can use to avoid a heated argument is a kind of intermission.  When things are getting hot, one person can say, “Let’s take a...

In its first week out, Disney’s “Finding Nemo” broke all sorts of box office records.  It quickly became one of the highest grossing animation films of all times.  In the movie, Nemo swims out a bit too far and gets lost.  His dad Marlin is determined to find his long lost son—no matter what it took.  Kids applaud when Marlin finally finds the wayward Nemo.  For whatever reason, maybe you haven’t seen or spoken to...

William Smart was an American Civil War veteran. He became a widower when his wife died in childbirth, leaving him to raise their six children on his own. Years later, his daughter wanted to find a way to honor her dad. She realized how hard it must have been for him as a single parent. So while listening to a sermon on Mother’s Day, she decided what she would do. In 1909 she organized the first Father’s Day to...

You had aspirations of doing and being something in your life.  But, now your dream just isn’t possible.  Maybe an accident or illness took your dreams away.  Maybe a divorce or financial problems killed your dream.  Every day, people are forced to make a choice…hang on to a dead dream, or reach for a new one.  The end of one dream could be the beginning of a new one…something even greater than you ever thought...

Before you get caught up in barbecues and picnics, stop to reflect on the true reason for Memorial Day—to honor the defenders of our American freedom. Many military families received the dreaded knock on the door this year as they learned their loved one died in battle. Let’s remember to honor our service men and women as well as their families. Listen to these words from World War II General Douglas McArthur. "It...