A few months ago, Americans celebrated Memorial Day and took some time to honor and remember the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. During such holidays, I find myself grateful for the service men and women who put their lives on the line every day so I can live in peace. But, sadly, during the rest of the year, my mind wanders to other cares and concerns and my thankfulness wanes (not on purpose, but simply due to the thousands of thoughts vying for my attention). Though I do not like admitting my fault in this area, I sense I am not alone. We live in such a fast-paced … [Read more...]

You know what?! I’ll just say it. If you would spend half as much time with me as you do on that game, we might have a decent relationship!!! There is no end to the work I do for you, the time I spend thinking about how to make you happy and the plans I have canceled to do something you wanted to do. And how do you repay me?!?! By having an affair with your stupid video game!!! I hope ‘she’ loves you when you are old and ugly! No, these words were not verbally uttered; and yes, this is a fabricated monologue; but, as a not-so-newly married woman, I believe it is a completely conceivable … [Read more...]

“By the power vested in me by the state of North Carolina, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride.” What an exciting moment it was for Eric and me! We were finally married. No more saying goodnight at the door. No more wedding planning. No more counting down the days. We were finally one! ... or, were we? Though twelve years have passed, I can remember some details about our courtship as if they happened yesterday. I remember spending every possible minute I could with Eric, even to the exclusion of my friends, homework, and other necessary tasks. I remember feeling … [Read more...]

“But, that does not make sense.” How I have loathed hearing these words from my husband over the years! Pick a subject out of a hat at random – money, child-rearing, how to confront someone – and Eric and I have likely encountered conflict in that very area. Eric, who wants to receive complete clarity in every situation, will let me know if he does not find my point of view logical. Oh, how I want to scream at the top of my lungs in those moments... but... I have also come to appreciate this quality in him. He does not always approach our disagreements as graciously as I would like, but … [Read more...]