Tis the season when we get so busy we lose sight of what brings us joy.  I know when I'm tired and grumpy, I'm not bringing joy to those around me.   

Working together and sharing responsibilities lightens the load for both of you BUT... some people lack the ability to think past their own needs.  If you're married to a spouse like this... personal growth is a process. 

It will take patience, but there is hope!

1 - Evaluate what you each experienced growing up.

2 - How close are your family values?

3 - Do you find it easy and enjoyable to live with your spouse?

If not, the only way to expect a lifelong marriage is to find

ways to overcome what divides you. 

After 46 years of marriage, kids, and life... I believe understanding how people think and make decisions differently, show emotions, and respond to stress... will move the needle in your relationship in the BIGGEST Way!  First understand personality, then decipher through the rest.  www.theextraordinarymarriage.com/redi...

You've been living with your parents, you're working and you never feel like you have enough money.  Now you're married and nothings changed except now you're coming up short every month.  You're thinking about buying that brand new car, you love eating out and buying the latest video game.  Your spousing is eyeing the latest fashions, wanting to decorate, and dreams of buying a house.

What happens when you get married? 

Have your parents bought you everything you want?

Do you saved any money?

Now you're married, you've gotta share everything and hey... it's your paycheck, you worked hard, now you're ready for your rewards.

We all want to hear, you deserve it, spend it, buy what you want, but the truth is... Now you are part of a team, stepping into real life where setting boundaries for yourself, building excellent credit, and discussing how and where to spend your paychecks will keep the arguments down, because stress will kill your love life.

Financial responsibility is one o...

So many couples put the cart before the horse.  They meet, hang out, get pregnant and then think... do we want to commit ourselves to each other for life and get married?

Too often the answer is no, and so explains, why there are so many children growing up without fathers.

Charlie and Erika Kirt not only believed in the Bibles version of marriage but also shared that truth with the world.  Last night I watched the over 4-hour tribute to Charlie's life, ending with his precious wife speaking.  Wow, what strength!

We live in a day and time where it can be dangerous to disagree with some folks.  Charlie took that chance and stood strong for 13 years, building Turning Point USA.  He believed in respect, but at the same time challenged others in what they believed.  

What if you and your spouse have been raised in such different families that your values and opinions are causing division?  What can you do?

#1 Remember what you loved about each other when you got married.

#2 Remember ...

My favorite pair of sunglasses broke this past spring.  They were fixable but I set them on the edge of the counter where I saw them most every day.  I figured if they were in plain sight... surely, I'd take a minute and glue them.

I didn't.  It's been 4 months... and today I finally took a few minutes to do what could have been done immediately.  Why is that?  P r o c r a s t i n a t i o n !

  Now... unlike a broken relationship, the crack in my sunglasses didn't get any worst.  I did have to apply some rubber bands to hold the glue tightly until it was dry.

A relationship begins to crack little by little and you do notice, but you tend to ignore it, making excuses like, he's got a lot going on, he's been working so hard, he didn't mean to explode like that.  It'll get better.  But what if it hasn't gotten better?  Some kind of action is needed if you want things to change.

- Books are priceless.  Here are a few that I use.

• The Holy Bible
• Empowered to Love (Focus on the Family
...

It’s May and Mother's Day is around the corner. I’m a mom of 3 and Nana of 15. The role women play in running a household gets a little easier but I’m always looking to up my game. In today’s fast-paced world, managing a household while ensuring everyone is well-fed and happy can be challenging. This article provides practical tips on meal planning, family management, and self-care for mothers who juggle multiple responsibilities.

Plus, I have something special for you… my Marriage & Mom’s Inspirational Summit May 1–17… and did I say it’s FREE? Take a look and see if there’s something encouraging and empowering for you.

Click… Join Me

Meal Planning Made Easy

Cooking and planning meals day in and day out gets old, but we all like to eat. Tapping into a system or preplanning eases the stress… and the hunger. Here are 3 ways you can make your life easier.

• Use Meal Planning Apps: Apps like Meal Lime and Plan to Eat can help organize your meals efficiently. Some apps even help you fi...

10 Things Every Mom Should Know to Make Life Easier

Right before my 1st wedding anniversary… I started to feel very tired, cried easily, I sent several pregnancy test into a doctor’s office… of which I’d never been to. Not pregnant! Whew, that was close. But the odd symptoms continued, so yes, there must be something else the matter.

On this day I’m sitting with a dozen other women, waiting for an in-office test result. Suddenly I think I heard my name but I really didn’t hear it. A lot of the women were visibly pregnant, plus I was a bit shy, so I had my head down reading a magazine. I lifted my head and the nurse repeated… Mrs. Durham, you’re due October 13th.

 
An influx of heat ran all over my body, ME pregnant…

how can that be?

Well, I do know how that can be.

I’m not ready. Well, I guess I’ll get ready.

Do you relate to that? What’s your story? It’s definitely a marker in time. The beginning of something new, and of course I had no idea of the joy and yes… challenges ...

Most of us express ourselves in a kind, thoughtful way in public... Why not do that at home.  Families that treat one another as special... endure.  www.theextraordinarymarriage.com/5NEEDS   

Enhancing Family Dynamics: Communication, Positivity, and Understanding

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a harmonious family environment can be challenging. However, focusing on effective communication, positive reinforcement, and understanding individual differences can significantly enhance family dynamics. Hi, I'm Connie Durham Host of The Extraordinary Marriage Podcast where you'll find ways to enhance and grow your relationship with your spouse.  The Effort Will Be Worth it!

Understanding Communication Styles

• Different Communication Needs: Recognize that everyone communicates differently. Some family members may be more direct, while others are indirect. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective communication.

• Listening vs. Talking: Balance is key. Encourage family members who talk a lot to listen more, and those who are quiet to express themselves.

The Power of Positivity

• Positive Reinforcement: Shift from negative to positive statemen

  ...

Navigating the Challenges of Blended Families

Blended families, where two separate families merge into one, present unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding and addressing these challenges is crucial for creating a harmonious and loving home environment. Here are some key strategies to help navigate the complexities of blended family life.

Understanding Blended Family Dynamics

• Challenges Faced by Children: Children in blended families often deal with the loss of a parent and the need for love and acceptance. They may struggle with feelings of division and competition among siblings.

• Importance of Communication: Open and respectful communication is vital. It helps family members express their feelings and understand each other's perspectives.

Key Strategies for Success

1. Create an Open Environment:

   • Encourage children to express their feelings and listen actively to them. This shows that you care and helps build trust.

2. Respect and Appreciation:...