Though many people refuse to even consider a long distance relationship, I believe proximity-challenged couples can thrive if they are well-matched and willing to put in the work required to keep their relationships moving forward! If you are in a long distance relationship, it is good to check in with each other every few months to determine if you are still on the same page – and to make sure you are not settling into a rut. Like with any relationship, you want to stay in for the right reasons; and, convenience and familiarity are not the right reasons. ~smile~ Are We Making the Most … [Read more...]
Five Ways Pre-Engagement Counseling can Further Your Connection
{Eric’s note: Please note that though Heather uses the term “counsel” (and other words based on that root word) in this post below, we are not licensed counselors. We often use the term “counseling” because people identify with that concept more readily in the context of what we do instead of “relationship coaching.” We have, however, earned Master’s degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and have worked with many couples over the last several years as relationship coaches with stellar reviews and testimonials.} “Pre-engagement counseling.” Maybe that phrase still leaves you scratching your … [Read more...]
Navigating the Stages of Spiritual Growth in Your Relationship (Celebrating Easter, Part 5)
It may come as a surprise to some, but Eric and I don’t recommend couples dive into deep Bible study and prayer together at the beginning of their budding relationship. Because of the emotional and spiritual bonding which happens when a couple seeks the Lord together, we think the amount of spiritual intimacy shared should slowly grow as the relationship grows. When we read the Bible with someone, we don’t necessarily feel any closer to him or her. But, when we study the Bible with someone, we begin to verbalize questions, ideas, convictions, and personal experiences (e.g., “Wow, I always … [Read more...]
Taking the First Step
I’m sitting here at my computer, occasionally looking out of my front window, thinking about how much I would love to stay in and not walk today. I’m trying to walk Ramsey more (the vet says she’s a smidge on the husky side) and I am trying to get moving more myself. Some people naturally enjoy physical activity, but unfortunately... that’s not me. I don’t inherently love to exercise, but I know I need it. However, I’ve noticed that after I exercise consistently for a while, my body misses it when I take a day (or – being honest – several days) off from physical activity. When I was a … [Read more...]
Three Reasons Why Pre-Engagement Counseling Could Destroy Your Relationship
A reader from Chicago, Illinois asks, "Could pre-engagement counseling ruin my relationship?" Why yes, yes it can. Allow me to give you three reasons why pre-engagement counseling could destroy your relationship.... You may argue more after pre-engagement counseling. Pre-engagement counseling is designed to help you get to know your future spouse – really well. In helping you to learn more about each other, our goal is to expose areas of agreement and disagreement. Often, when a couple is dating and heading toward engagement, both parties typically want to please the other person. In … [Read more...]