Here are some of the best kept secrets to a successful marriage. First, understand that the universe does not revolve around your child. Do everything you can to keep your spouse a top priority.  Second, realize that love is a daily choice that you make and an action you take. Love is all about giving selflessly and sacrificially to your spouse. Third, never everstop dating. Carve out consistent time each week or...

You see, if I ask them to get me nothing, I may truly get everything for Christmas. Here are three reasons this might be the very best thing I could do for my family this year. First, it gets the focus off of me. When it’s not about me getting something, it helps me to think more about giving something, which is the real spirit of Christmas. Second, it helps focus our family’s attention on what we already have and...

My wife, Susan and I were already blessed with three children. But then, 10 years ago, our hearts were moved to adopt. We were given the opportunity to adopt two older children, ages 12 and 9. So we flew several thousand miles into a remote area of Siberia, Russia. Once there, we went to a little orphanage and found two children who needed a mom and dad to love and care for them. Susan and I got to be that mom and...

Maybe it’s watching the parade or football game on TV. Maybe it’s playing football or games in the backyard. That special dish you serve every year can be a great tradition as well.  Each family member sharing what they’re thankful for as you gather around the dinner table can be a very meaningful tradition.  Your tradition might even include inviting a family that’s less fortunate.  Think about it. What tradition...

It’s been said that “The eyes are useless when the mind is blind.” If that is true, I think I’ve approached a lot of Thanksgivings with a dim view of my many real blessings. I don’t always have the awe and wonder that I should. I should be in awe of the simple amazing blessings in my life. I should be really thankful for the simple things we take for granted like running water, climate-controlled homes, a...

As our little girls grow into young ladies, one of our biggest concerns becomes the boys in their lives. As parents, we know the danger of a fragile heart in the hands of an immature boy. But unless we understand the issues, our girls will probably remain blind to the emotional and physical consequences that come with being physically intimate. So here are some key factors to be aware of that may increase your...

Many studies have shown that parents do have a big impact on what their kids decide to do for a living. Here are three ways to influence your child’s career choice. First, be a student of your child. Watch your kids carefully and take mental notes on their natural skills, interests, and areas of giftedness. Second, validate your child’s gifts. When you see those interests and gifts emerging, it’s important to...