I had much rather talk of positive, uplifting marriage topics, but sometimes that's not your story, right? My beautiful guest for episode 88 of "The Extraordinary Marriage" podcast shares her real story... and ongoing real story where she fights to keep her marriage and move past infidelity and it's many hurts.  I often put out short YouTube clips... but somehow, that just doesn't seem right this week.  So... here's a short blog on the power for forgiveness.

Connie

In the journey of love and companionship, every couple encounters moments of misunderstanding, hurt, and disappointment.

These moments, while challenging, offer an opportunity for growth and deeper connection. At the heart of this transformative process lies the powerful act of forgiveness.

Understanding Forgiveness

Forgiveness is often misunderstood as condoning or excusing hurtful behavior. However, true forgiveness is about releasing the burden of resentment and anger. As one insightful quote from our recent Project ...

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy and lasting relationship can be challenging.

However, understanding the dynamics of communication and embracing differences can pave the way for a harmonious and fulfilling partnership.

Here are some insights and strategies to help you and your partner thrive.

Understanding differences is crucial in any relationship.

Every couple comes from different backgrounds, which shape their perspectives and expectations. Recognizing these cultural and environmental influences can help you appreciate your partner's unique viewpoint. Additionally, acknowledging that each partner has distinct personality traits can enhance your understanding of their reactions and motivations, allowing you to support one another better.

Effective communication is at the heart of a thriving relationship.

Good communication involves both listening and expressing thoughts clearly. It's essential to listen to your partner and share your feelings openly,...

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 ...

In this insightful video, we dive into the challenges and rewards of raising confident children in today's blended families. Discover practical strategies for fostering self-assurance in your kids while ensuring your marriage remains strong and connected. From navigating unique family dynamics to celebrating the joys of parenthood, we’ll explore how to create a harmonious home where everyone can thrive. Join us as we share tips for overcoming common hurdles, strengthening marital bonds, and nurturing resilient kids who feel empowered to take on the world. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to cultivate a loving environment that supports both your children’s growth and your relationship.   www.theextraordinarymarriage.com/rediscover 

Hello Friend,

In today's fast-paced world, where relationships can sometimes be navigated more by convenience than commitment, it's essential to go back to the basics. The foundations of a strong marriage aren't built on grand gestures but on meaningful conversations and shared values. Here are 8 essential conversations that can help pave the way for a thriving marriage:

1. The Importance of Pre-Marital Conversations: Before the wedding bells ring, it's crucial for couples to sit down and discuss their future aspirations, values, and visions for life together. These early conversations set the stage for a relationship aligned in goals and expectations, making it easier to face life's challenges together.

2. Influence of Childhood and Upbringing: Our past significantly shapes our worldview, including our perceptions of family and priorities in life. Understanding each other's background and upbringing fosters empathy and support, crucial for navigating marital life.

3. Dealing wit...

I was just thinking how thankful I am that my husband and I both have a sense of humor. It starts with me, I laugh when I get nervous, embarrassed, and I simply see life with humor. That does NOT mean I laugh at everything or that I’m in a good mood all the time. Our mood and our outlook definitely color how we relate to our spouse. We either spread sunshine or gloom.

Like, I didn’t laugh when my youngest child was a senior in high school, and responsibilities were less and less and freedom was in sight, until a close relative went a wall and lost their kids to foster care. It’s like one day my own kids were independent and the next we were in court picking up 2 young children and stepping back into parenting for over two years. I hate to say it but, I was stuck in the gloom… during that time.

But… typically my sense of humor bubbles up most every day. We laugh a lot. My husband said the other day, “You make me laugh”. I think I see most of life through a multi-colored psychedelic ...