It is that special time again. After weeks of smiling, kindness, shoulder rubs, and thoughtful phone conversations, your precious rose starts... changing. Suddenly, she begins offering short and edgy responses to perfectly normal questions. Then, she bats your hand away when you touch her. Her typically laid back driving is suddenly replaced with snide remarks, honking horns, and, dare I say, even the occasional hand gesture. Your jokes make her cry and your work stories make her laugh. Who is this crazy woman and how can I get my girlfriend back? Does this sound familiar? Some women … [Read more...]

“I think he may be an angel. Seriously, he is so perfect I wonder if he is actually a heavenly being.” This was me at twelve. I was so enamored with my boyfriend that I wondered if he could be part angel. ~smile~ How could any human being be so flawless and not be sent straight from Heaven? Sounds silly, right? Well, it is how many couples relate to each other before they have time to accumulate relational baggage. Before a man or woman hurts you, it is easy to see him or her as flawless. “He dotes on me, brings me presents, and compliments me constantly. What a prince!” “She laughs at my … [Read more...]

Hold on to your hats! It is Talk in an Elevator Day! A day dedicated to crushing the awkward silence, digging into your most courageous place, and talking to strangers on the elevator. This holiday cracks me up, but if I were waiting for an elevator right now, I am pretty sure I would be silently fidgeting. ~smile~ Why? Why are we so afraid of each other? Inconvenienced by each other? On Grandparents’ Day in elementary school, I remember being surprised by how easily the “old” people talked with one another. They laughed as if they had been friends for years. They were probably in the habit … [Read more...]

It is Rain Day! I am not sure why this holiday is not celebrated in April; but, it is still a great day to observe. How is the weather in your neighborhood? If it is raining, it should be easy to enjoy some of the ideas below. If not, you can download a rain-sounding app (for the iPhone and iPad, we like Rain, Rain Sleep Sounds – it is awesome!), you can run through the sprinkler in your backyard, or you can plan to celebrate on the next rainy day! Rain can ruin our plans or open up a whole new set of possibilities. Here are a few rainy day activities I think you may enjoy! Mud Puddles! … [Read more...]