Kristen Price – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com Here today, better tomorrow. Fri, 17 May 2019 20:41:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 https://wp-media.familytoday.com/2020/03/favicon.ico Kristen Price – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com 32 32 To the mom who let herself go: You’ll be back https://www.familytoday.com/family/to-the-mom-who-let-herself-go-youll-be-back/ Thu, 12 Oct 2017 12:06:22 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/to-the-mom-who-let-herself-go-youll-be-back/ Let yourself go, or just prioritizing? It's all about your perspective.

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You've birthed a few babies; you've supported your husband's every move; you have dinner on the table every night, homework done, stories read - nowit's time for that Zumba class at the local gym, right?

Yeah, right. When it comes to motherhood, it's easy to feel as if you're drowning. And while all those responsibilities and obligations are weighing on you, the last thing on your mind is a mani-pedi or some exciting new lingerie. If you're a mom who feels you've let yourself go, it's time to cut yourself some slack; you'll be back someday.

You have bigger (or smaller) priorities right now

Motherhood is all a balancing act, and sometimes, even seemingly "important" tasks get lost in the juggle. Don't berate yourself for missing book club, forgetting a girlfriend's birthday or bailing on another Pilates session. As a mom, you have big, big priorities - no matter how pint-size they currently are. As your kids grow older and more independent, you'll have the time to lead the church choir, take up gourmet French cooking or perfect the impossible yoga pose. Right now, your priorities center around those little ones - and that's perfectly OK.

Comparison is your nemesis

Let's face it; there's always going to be a peppy blonde on Instagram showing off her 26-inch waist two weeks after giving birth. But the truth of the matter is, most moms are feeling exactly like you - and it's not just about looks, either. Whether it's perfectly toned abs, a pristine house or just a baby that sleeps through the night, it's easy to feel intimidated by what you perceive is going "right" in another mom's life. But all that insecurity and (yes) judgment aren't doing anything to help you feel better about yourself. Getting back to who you really are isn't just about you - it's about how you're viewing (and treating) other moms, too.

The guilt is real

Whether it's not breast-feeding, dropping your kids at day care or turning down a killer promotion to stay at home, there's no end to reasons you can feel guilty as a mom. According to The New York Times, 51 percent of working moms feel guilty for not spending enough time with their children, while 55 percent of stay-at-home moms feel guilty for not contributing to the household income. Bottom line? Feelings of guilt don't necessarily mean you're failing or doing anything wrong. They just mean you're a mom.

Your self-image is affecting your kids

After childbirth, breast-feeding and near-constant sleep deprivation and exhaustion, it's no wonder you don't feel like "yourself" anymore. The thing is, that's OK. You have time to get back to the person you were - or to become the person you want to be. What you don't have time for is insecurity and self-loathing. Not only will it make you miserable, but it can also affect your kids. A mom's biggest insecurities can often affect her children's self-confidence too. It's OK that you don't have the fittest bod, the cleanest house or the most delicious Sunday pot roast. But all that can come with time (if you want it). For now, give yourself some credit for everything you've accomplished thus far. Chances are, those accomplishments are pretty cute.

If motherhood is feeling overwhelming, don't be afraid to simplify. What you need is just a little extra help - like child products that work double duty. The Strolly is a stroller that transforms withyour child, converting into a trike/bike as your child grows.

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11 things no one tells you about newborns (that every parent needs to know) https://www.familytoday.com/family/11-things-no-one-tells-you-about-newborns-that-every-parent-needs-to-know/ Thu, 14 Sep 2017 14:26:11 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/11-things-no-one-tells-you-about-newborns-that-every-parent-needs-to-know/ From feelings of guilt and inadequacy to scary surprises in their diapers, this is what you need to know about…

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You've read all the parenting books, you have the nursery prepped and your hospital bag is waiting by the door. But before you bring that little bundle of joy home with you, there are a few things you should know about newborns.

1. They're not as cold as you think they are

Imagine someone wrapping you in a hat, scarf and large fleece blanket when you're already comfortably warm. Many people assume (for reasons unknown) their babies are freezing even in temperature-controlled homes. Sure, you want your baby to be comfortable, but don't overthink it. If you're not freezing, your newborn probably isn't either.

2. The "connection" might not be immediate

There may be no such thing as love at first sight - even with your own child. Many parents experience an immediate bond with their newborns, but some must develop it over time. After all, loving a needy, hungry, poopy, screaming baby isn't always as easy as it looks on TV.

3. There's no shortage of advice

Got a question about diapering, breast-feeding, sleeping, diaper brands, strollers, schedules ... or anything at all? There will be no shortage of experts around you telling you exactly what to do for your child. Feel free to take this advice - or throw it out with your next dirty diaper.

4. Weird things happen in the diaper

Speaking of diapers, those things can really freak you out. For example, did you know that a newborn's first bowel movement will be meconium - poop resulting from what your baby has ingested from amniotic fluid - and is black, tarry and sticky. Additionally, if you have a baby girl, it's possible to find blood in her diaper. All those hormones that have been surging through your body could cause your baby girl to have a mini menstrual period.

5. You're going to think a lot about poop

Is it happening often enough? Is it happening too often? Is it supposed to be that color? Does the baby look constipated? Get ready, because "No. 2" might soon become your No. 1 priority. Your baby's bowel movements are a good indication of his or her health, so don't be surprised when you become a little poop-obsessed.

6. They're slipperier than you think

Even when perfectly prepped, your baby's first bath might feel like a test of nerves. When wet and soapy, that smooth baby skin may as well be a loose football on a snowy field. Don't overthink it, but don't be afraid to call for backup, either. Four hands are better than two when you're scrubbing down a miniature human.

7. There's no end to the guilt

Whether you choose formula over breast milk, take your baby to day care, hire a nanny or let her taste ice cream, chances are you're going to feel guilty for it. Being a parent comes with a lot of guilt - even if you're acing the job. You'll second-guess yourself and you'll feel guilty about your decisions. That's parenthood.

8. You might think they need Clearasil

Speaking of smooth skin, your baby's might not be. In fact, baby acne is a common phenomenon because your newborn's new little pores are getting a crash course in our human world of dirt, debris and toxins. Just try not to pop your baby's zit if you enjoy the sound of him not screaming.

9. It might seem like they're balding

You never thought your baby would resemble George Costanza, but there he (or she!) is, losing patches of hair like he's a 40-something man. Even if your baby is born with a full head of hair, it's typical for newborns to lose some in the first few months of life, often most noticeably a thinned area in the back where they rub their heads against the bassinet.

10.Everyone will need multiple costume changes

Sure, between spit-ups and blowouts, you've been warned that your washer and dryer will be working overtime to clean onesies and blankets once you come home from the hospital. What you might not realize is that you, too, will be changing your outfit (if you can call those sweats or PJs an "outfit") multiple times per day. Between breast milk that leaks, night sweats and, of course, spit-up and blowouts that wind up on you, you may never reach the end of the laundry pile.

11. They're going to grow out of all that expensive baby gear

From highchairs to swings to monitors to strollers, you've spend your child's college tuition on the latest baby gear. Guess what? You probably won't use it for long. Instead of buying into the hype (literally) choose items that will grow with your baby - like the Strolly, a stroller that becomes a bike and grows along with your child.

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If you’re the mother of a toddler, you need to know these 5 facts https://www.familytoday.com/family/if-youre-the-mother-of-a-toddler-you-need-to-know-these-5-facts/ Thu, 07 Sep 2017 10:12:03 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/if-youre-the-mother-of-a-toddler-you-need-to-know-these-5-facts/ Raising a toddler can make you want to swoon with joy or quietly pull your hair out. Here's what you…

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They throw tantrums, toys and likely even a dish or two. The next minute, they're cuddly, lovable and oh-so-sweet. If you're the mother of one of these complex, contradictory creatures known as toddlers - and you're hoping to keep your sanity intact - there are a few things you should know.

1. He's not going to starve to death

Last week, he couldn't get enough strawberries. This week, he's gagging on them and throwing his plate on the floor. He hasn't eaten since lunch, but he doesn't seem remotely interested in dinner. Is he really not hungry, or is this some kind of devilish mind game? Take a breath; it's probably the former. Toddlers are as fickle with their food preferences as they are with new toys. What delighted them yesterday is chopped liver (literally) today. According to kidshealth.org, toddlers are beginning to take control of parts of their lives - including what they choose to eat. Unfortunately for you, this control may manifest itself by disrupting your otherwise pleasant dinner. Give your child a variety of healthy foods and let him choose which to eat. If he doesn't eat at all, shrug it off and try again at the next meal.

2. She needs to make choices

Let's be honest. The world of toddlerhood isn't exactly liberating. From their schedules to their meals to their clothing, someone else is usually in charge. But making choices is an important part of a toddler's development - one you should encourage in small ways throughout the day. Rather than give your toddler carte blanche, offer frequent, simple choices, such as whether to have chicken or avocado for lunch, whether to wear tennis shoes or flip-flops or whether to go to the park or play in the sprinklers.

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3. They're miniature tyrants

Parents of toddlers love their children, but some days, it can be really, really hard to like them. They make countless demands, throw tantrums when things don't go their way and have a knack for pushing all the right make-mommy-crazy buttons. In fact, if you want to destroy an otherwise delightful situation or occasion, just throw a toddler in the mix. According to Parenting, toddlers' unending demands and seemingly nonexistent logic are perfectly normal; they have yet to understand spatial relationships (i.e., that's why she keeps running into the wall), the concept of time (why can't we do it now?) and exactly how the physical world works (in other words, why she still wants pretzels when you told her you have no pretzels).

4. There's no such thing as 'yours'

It doesn't take long for children to learn the word "mine." Conversely, they seem to shun the idea of "yours." Your toddler wants nothing to do with the expensive new toy you bought him, but he's keenly interested in your car keys or lipstick. Don't get frustrated; in your toddler's eyes, you're a goddess - and your possessions are precious indeed. Just make sure you keep the car keys up high.

5. They're growing - and need gear that grows with them

Let's be honest - baby gear isn't cheap. But just because you broke the bank on that swing or crib doesn't mean your toddler is going to love it any longer. Toddlers grow out of toys and gear faster than you (or your wallet) would like. Think strategically about what you buy your tot. For example, The Strolly is a stroller/bicycle combination that grows with your child and can keep him interested for years - not just until dinnertime.

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7 things rich people do (that you’re not doing) https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/7-things-rich-people-do-that-youre-not-doing/ Wed, 30 Aug 2017 12:51:42 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/7-things-rich-people-do-that-youre-not-doing/ There may be no such thing as getting rich quick, but follow these rich-people habits and you just might wind…

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There might be a million and one ways to get rich, but believe it or not, most people that do it have a lot of the same characteristics - and habits. If you're looking to increase the size of your fortune, or just live a little more comfortably than your current situation, try adopting the habits of the uber-wealthy.

They don't save money

A wise man once said that a dollar saved is a dollar earned, but guess what? Benjamin Franklin might have been missing the mark when it came to his hard-earned dollars. Rich people tend to invest their money wisely, rather than stowing it away to make scraps of interest in a savings account. Yes, smart people save money. But wealthy people make their money work for them - by investing it.

They relax with a good book

If you thought all rich people spend all their time working, think again. Many are spending a fair amount of their precious time reading. In fact, according to Business Insider, one study profiling 1,200 wealthy people found that a common favorite pastime wasn't golf or country clubs or sailing. It was good, old-fashioned (free!) reading. Successful people use reading as a way to self-educate on becoming more successful, with self-improvement books being a favorite among the rich, according to yet another study.

They live on the cheap

The wealthier a person is, the flashier his or her lifestyle, right? Not so much. In fact, some of the wealthiest Americans live like, well, normal people. For example, Warren Buffet, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway (and one of the country's richest men), lives in the same home he bought in 1958 for just over $31,000. If you're looking to become rich, practice wise spending habits (thrift-store trip, anyone?).

They wait for bargains

Just because you have the money in the bank, that doesn't mean you have to spend it. That's the idea behind waiting for bargains and sales when it comes to buying life's necessities. Unfortunately, most people just aren't wired to wait for the best value. According to a Princeton study, people were more likely to take $10 today over $11 tomorrow, simply because short-term rewards are more powerful to the human brain. That said, learning to hold out for the best value -even if it means putting off what you want now - can reap rewards down the line.

They forsake retirement

Like most people, you might think of retirement as the reward after a hard-working career. But really wealthy people tend to skip early retirement - simply because they feel an ingrained need to stay busy. When you're successful, you focus on the work at hand - not the rest that comes after. Changing this mindset might help you actually achieve that wealth by retirement age (whether that's 65 or 105).

They stick to a budget

One perk of success is freedom, but most wealthy people are trained and accustomed to not only building a budget - but becoming a slave to it. Like any endeavor, becoming wealthy requires a plan, and often, that plan is a strict budget. Making yourself stick to it will help you achieve your financial goals - however lofty they might be.

They give it away

It might seem counterproductive, but the fact remains: The richest people give lots of money away. According to Time, 91 percent of people with a net worth of $1 million or more, give money to charity. Giving doesn't have to be a burden. For example, Ziphub allows you to buy items you use every day, while donating a portion of the cost to a charity or organization of your choice. For more info, or to start giving back today, visit www.ziphub.com.

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If he does these 6 things, he’s in love with you (no question) https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/if-he-does-these-6-things-hes-in-love-with-you-no-question/ Mon, 28 Aug 2017 10:57:47 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/if-he-does-these-6-things-hes-in-love-with-you-no-question/ When 'he loves me, he loves me not' isn't working, look for these signs that he's here to stay.

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You've played "he loves me, he loves me not," but you're still unsure - and you've killed a whole lot of flowers along the way. If you're emotionally invested in your relationship, but still wondering how he feels, it might be time to look for the signs. The proof of his love might be right in front of you (no flower killing required).

1. He bails on his friends

Sure, it might make him a less-popular member of the dude world, but if your man is willing to drop plans with his buddies to take you to dinner (or even better - run an errand for you), you know you've got him reeled in. For many men, bromance is a real - and sacred - thing. If he's suddenly nixing his Monday Night Football party or forgoing a weekend bachelor party just to spend time with you, he's definitely in love.

2. He's a snuggle bug

As a woman, you might live for a good cuddle sesh, but guess what? Most guys don't. Sure, they enjoy physical intimacy as much as you do (or likely more), but cuddling isn't offering your man much physical gratification - unless he's in love. A man in love will snuggle like a toddler with a skinned knee for the woman he loves - which hopefully, is you!

3. He makes plans (and they include you)

If you're like many women, you've been planning your future wedding, home and even that first bundle of joy since you were 5 years old. Your man, on the other hand, likely hasn't given those ideas more than a passing thought - unless he's in love. Men in love start planning. If he's talking about the future - and that future includes a big "we," you know he's head over heels for you.

4. He surprises you

...and not in a creepy, show-up-at-your-door-in-the-middle-of-the-night way. A man who's in love is more spontaneous than he was before, and that means you're likely to get a surprise or two. Whether that's a spur-of-the-moment weekend getaway or a thoughtful gift out of the blue, a surprise is sending one big message: The man is in love.

5. He's into all your friends

Well, hopefully, he's not too into them. When a man is in love with you, he wants to know what makes you you - and the people who make you who you are. If your guy wants to hang out with your girlfriends and can't wait to meet your parents and siblings, it's definitely love.

6. He radiates love

They say a pregnant woman glows. Well, a man in love shines. The love he feels shows in his daily actions - whether that's holding the door for an elderly woman, picking up a stranger's coffee tab or practicing Ziphub's motto to "Love One Another." When you're around him, it's obvious he's happy with life and loves sharing that joy with everyone - especially you!

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10 things that will make your wife love you more and more https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/10-things-that-will-make-your-wife-love-you-more-and-more/ Fri, 04 Aug 2017 08:28:59 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/10-things-that-will-make-your-wife-love-you-more-and-more/ Even great marriages can benefit from a little more love. Here's how to make your wife love you more every…

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They say love and marriage go together like a horse and carriage, but there's room for more love in every relationship. If you're looking to make your wife swoon again, there are a few effortless ways to make her love you more every day.

1. Make every day a first date

Chivalry may be all but dead, but a woman still loves a gentlemanly gesture. Pull out her dinner chair, open her car door and offer her your jacket when it's cold. In other words, make every date a first date.

2. Do downward-facing dog

You may not be interested in yoga, crafting or making the perfect pot roast, but if your wife is, show your support and she'll adore you for it. Encourage her ambitions, even if that means not critiquing her downward-facing dog, running last-minute craft store errands or tasting more pot roasts than you'd care to.

3. Tell her she's "wonderful"

You can make your wife love you more in seconds - and with just a few syllables. A genuine, heartfelt compliment will not only make her swoon, it can contribute to a healthier relationship. In fact, Reader's Digest suggests that compliments are important in marriage because they help communication, spice things up and offer encouragement.

4. Take daddy duty seriously

Your wife wants to feel like a priority, but guess what? Putting the kids above all other needs will make her swoon even more. Take over carpool duty, or simply give her a break from the daily routine now and then. Women love men who take fatherhood seriously, especially when it involves their children.

5. Let her be girly

Your attraction to your wife (and her attraction to you) is based on a balance of feminine and masculine energies. To intensify the attraction, be sure your wife knows that you consider her a beautiful, feminine woman. Don't treat her like one of the guys, or even a good friend. Be sure she knows she's not just your partner and companion; she's the woman you'd choose again and again.

6. Show your appreciation

Taking care of a family is a joint effort, but if it's been a while since you've noticed your wife's contributions, she may feel a bit taken for granted. Make an effort to notice - and openly appreciate - your wife's efforts. Whether it's a home-cooked meal or a stack of fresh laundry folded in your dresser drawer, make a point to give her a heartfelt thanks.

7. Be excited

... but not just about anything. Get excited about things your wife is excited about. Whether that's a home renovation project, something she's working on at her job or just a movie she can't wait to see, your enthusiasm will touch her heart.

8. Tickle her funny bone

Life isn't all fun and games, but if you're not laughing regularly, you might not be as happy as you could be. According to a 2015 study, couples who laugh more tend to be happier in their relationships. So if you're looking to reignite a spark, tickle her funny bone.

9. Do the dishes

... or clean the bathroom, sweep the floor (you get the idea). Even if your wife works full time, she's likely pulling more than her weight around the house too. Take over a few of the household chores, giving her time to do something she enjoys. She'll love you for it.

10. Practice love everywhere

Your heart is a muscle. Whether you're complimenting your wife or giving back to charity, exercise your ability to love every day. Ziphub is a great way to do just that. Shop with Ziphub and 10 percent of what you spend will be donated to a nonprofit organization selected by you because there's never too much love in the world.

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5 things that are happening in your kid’s public school that you need to be aware of https://www.familytoday.com/family/5-things-that-are-happening-in-your-kids-public-school-that-you-need-to-be-aware-of/ Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:33:33 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/5-things-that-are-happening-in-your-kids-public-school-that-you-need-to-be-aware-of/ You send them off every day, but do you know what your kids are really facing in their public schools?

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For public school students, education isn't just about reading, writing and arithmetic. Today's students (and their educators) are navigating a whole new world of problems within the walls of their public schools. From bullying to peer pressure to budget cuts, you'd be surprised at what's actually happening in your child's school.

1. Kids use fake Instagram accounts

As a parent, you likely monitor your child's Facebook page or Instagram account on a regular basis. But what happens when children have accounts their parents never see? Unfortunately, the growing trend in social media is for young people to create secret accounts, visible only to their peers or friends while keeping their "public" persona clean cut. According to Teen Vogue, secret accounts like "Finsta" (fake Instagram accounts) allow teens to post about alcohol, drugs, parties, sex - basically everything that keeps parents like you awake at night. And the worst part? School is the perfect place for teens to learn how to navigate the world of secret social media.

2. Kids participate in self-harm "challenges"

Kids will be kids, but when your student comes home with what appear to be serious burns on his skin, the act is more than simple childhood mischief. Each year introduces a new, dangerous "challenge" or trend, which stands to affect both your kids' health and academic performance. Thanks to social media, this year, the "eraser challenge" is spreading like wildfire in schools. The challenge, which requires participants to rub an eraser on their skin while doing or saying something, leads to burns, abrasions, cuts and a hearty dose of peer pressure and bullying.

3. 3.2 million students are victims of bullying every year

No parent wants to think his or her child is being mistreated at school. But the hard truth of the matter is that bullying affects a lot of students. In fact, according to DoSomething.org, more than 3.2 million students are victims of bullying each year, and approximately 160,000 teens skip school every day due to bullying. Often, parents are totally in the dark about what their child is going through. Bullying in public schools isn't just about bumps and bruises; bullying frequently happens online through social media and is intensified in the classroom.

4. Americans don't respect teachers

...and that's not just referring to the students. Today, many Americans - young and old - do not respect teaching as a vocation. This attitude is affecting public schools - and your students. According to Teach Magazine, parents are often involved and eager to work with teachers for the benefit of their children, but "don't display much in the way of respect, and the reasons often have nothing to do with the teacher involved." The result? Parents just don't understand what teachers actually do in the classroom. For example, they may not understand or appreciate that teachers are working with limited budgets, troubled teens and school bureaucracy all in their efforts to educate your child.

5. Budget cuts are harming your child

It's no secret that public education is facing significant budget cuts. What you might not know is how those cuts are affecting your child's education. This loss of funding reduces school staffs, increases class sizes and costs teachers and families more money every year. In fact, many public school teachers pay for supplies and other necessities out of their pockets, simply to deliver better education for your child. And with reduced staff, there are fewer adults present each day to protect students from bullying, peer pressure and myriad other issues facing our students.

Want to improve your child's public school experience? Ziphub allows you to support your favorite causes - like your child's school - when you purchase items you use every day. Click here for more information.

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If you don’t know the answers to these 10 questions, don’t get married yet https://www.familytoday.com/family/if-you-dont-know-the-answers-to-these-10-questions-dont-get-married-yet/ Wed, 28 Jun 2017 10:09:07 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/if-you-dont-know-the-answers-to-these-10-questions-dont-get-married-yet/ You'd better make sure you know the answers to these questions.

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First comes love, then comes marriage, but if you don't fit "getting to know each other" somewhere in the mix, you could find yourself experiencing anything but marital bliss. Sure, wedding bells are lovely, but if you want to avoid alarmbells in the future, you'd better know the answers to these important questions.

1. What's your family's style of arguing?

It may seem to be a silly question, but if your parents calmly discussed tough issues over dinner while your soon-to-be in-laws threw china on the floor and lost their voices screaming, you could have some issues down the line. Your spouse may not be the same as his or her parents, but that influence will likely show up.

2. How do you see yourself as a parent? Career mom? Hands-on dad? Nannies and boarding school?

If you two are planning to have children together, it's a good idea to discuss and define roles early on - before he says he never saw himself changing diapers.

3. What's the role of religion in the home?

Whether you hail from different religious backgrounds or are both agnostics, it's important to define the role of religion in your home. Today, more American homes are interfaith - 42 percent in 2010, up from 15 percent in 1988, according to the Chicago Tribune. But depending on the tenor of your religion, these differences could cause some strife down the line.

4. What's your love language?

If you've read "The 5 Love Languages" you know that people feel and express love in different ways. How well do you understand each other's needs? You might need verbal affirmation, while your spouse wants physical touch.

5. Are you willing to try new things?

You're an adrenaline junkie, and your spouse is a homebody. That's not a deal breaker, but both of you may need to stretch yourselves to accommodate your spouse's favorite hobbies. Are you willing to trade a quiet weekend at home for a zip lining, cliff-jumping Mexican vacation, and vice versa?

6. What's your credit score?

If you will be financing a home - or anything - together, it's best not to be caught by surprise when one of you is rocking 800 while the other can't seem to climb above 575.

7. Should we put a TV in the bedroom?

Hey, this is an important question. Is the bedroom a place of relaxation and intimacy, or a place to indulge in your mutual adoration for reality TV and late-night Netflix binges?

8. How much time should we spend with our families?

Marriage isn't just between a man and a woman. It's also between two families. And if the dynamic between either you and your soon-to-be in-laws or your spouse and yourfamily isn't ideal, it's best to discuss the amount of time you'll be spending with each.

9. What's your vacation style?

You're all about lounging on the beach, while your significant other wants to scale a mountain. You can switch off types of places you go, or look for destinations that will work for both of you at once. For example, you might opt for a resort that's great for both the beachgoer and the adrenaline junkie. A place like Xel-Ha Playa de Carmen can provide the perfect fit.

10. Where do you see us in 10 years?

Defining your expectations for your marriage now can prevent some bitterness later. Do you both expect a family life with kids and dogs, or do you crave a career-minded, jet-setting lifestyle? Either is fun, but it's best to get on the same page before you say "I do."

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If you want to keep your husband forever, do these 7 things with him https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/if-you-want-to-keep-your-husband-forever-do-these-7-things-with-him/ Tue, 27 Jun 2017 10:21:22 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/if-you-want-to-keep-your-husband-forever-do-these-7-things-with-him/ These simple actions will keep your husband around forever.

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When you've got a good man, you don't just stand by him, you do everything you can to keep him around. Locking your relationship down isn't as hard as you think, and these simple actions will keep your husband around forever.

Step out of your comfort zone

You're all about Netflix, but all that comfort and familiarity might be doing your relationship a disservice. Why not try something new - or maybe even scary - to challenge you both and help you grow together? Think of your husband like a business colleague and date night like a team-building exercise. Why take in dinner and a movie when you can swim with stingrays or zip line through the jungle? Chances are, you'll be just a little closer for it.

Get glammed up

Say what you will about diamonds, sweats are a girl's best friend. That said, greeting your hubby every day in a different pair of stretchy pants (or worse: the same pair), could be a romance killer. Plan a date night reminiscent of your days of courtship. Whether it's a night at the symphony or a resort vacation complete with all-you-can-eat buffets, be sure to glam it up before heading out. Don't worry, those 4-inch heels will be worth the pain.

Discover something new

A new culture, a new food, a new band - it really doesn't matter. Making cool discoveries together gives you memories on which you're building the foundation of your relationship. Years down the line you'll still be talking about that indie rock concert you saw together or that bike ride you took through the forest of Mexico. Soon, his favorite memories will all be interwoven with you and your relationship, and that's a really good thing.

Get epicurean

Cooking together isn't just about health and convenience - though it can certainly satisfy both. But when you make dinner with your husband, you're also strengthening your relationship. Says who? Science, for one. According to Brides, couples who cook together experience better communication and happier marriages. The only caveat: Don't fight over who gets to wear the chef's hat.

Show each other off

Every woman wants to be shown off, but guess what? Guys love it too. Rather than complaining to your co-workers - or even worse, family members - about your husband, brag him up. Focus on talking about his best qualities and maybe even his great glutes. Men love to feel wanted and appreciated, and telling the world how much you love your man is a great way to do just that.

Play video games

If World of Warcraft is the way to his heart, by all means, grab the remote control and start trash talking like you're a professional hockey player. Loving someone means supporting them in their hobbies - and maybe even playing along. If he's not a video game guy, make an effort to participate in his favorite activities - whether that's a competitive game of driveway one-on-one or an afternoon hike in the mountains. He'll love you for it, even if you're rubbish.

Keep him guessing

...in and out of the bedroom. Whether it's answering the door with a nerf gun in hand or whisking him off to an adventurous Mexican vacation, surprise is a healthy attribute of any relationship. According to Psychology Today, "surprises add spark to your relationship and communicate how much you care."

If you need inspiration for keeping your love alive, seriously look no further than Xel-há where you can swim with dolphins or stingrays, cliff jump, float through the forest, relax in hammocks, enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet and so much more!

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7 things your wife needs from you on a regular basis https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/7-things-your-wife-needs-from-you-on-a-regular-basis/ Fri, 16 Jun 2017 13:11:35 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/7-things-your-wife-needs-from-you-on-a-regular-basis/ For a happier marriage (and life), make sure you're giving your wife what she needs on a regular basis.

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For many men, women are a mystery. But if you happen to be married to one, what you don't know could be hurting your relationship. Even if she doesn't ask for much, there are a few things your wife requires from you on a regular basis. Meet these needs and you might just find yourself the lucky half of the happiest couple around.

Trust

What's trust got to do with it? Well, just about everything. Your wife is your soul mate, your partner in crime and your life partner. If your relationship is lacking trust, you're not experiencing a true partnership. Focus on the Family advises: "There is no such thing as a white lie. Being honest with your spouse includes telling the truth about where you were, whom you talked to, what you said and where you spent money. Many marriages have been saved because both spouses committed to being honest, even if it involved painful truths." If you're less than an open book around your wife, it's time to focus on trust.

Permission

Your wife isn't a child, but she still needs your permission - to take risks, take a break or to simply be her imperfect self. If you're not sure how to start, listening goes a long way. Let her talk about her feelings, frustrations, fears and desires. Encourage her to pursue her goals and dreams - even if that means picking up the slack at home. Let her know you love her for who she is right now - flaws and all.

Physical affection

And that's not just between the sheets. Your wife needs a daily - if not more often - dose of hugs, kisses and good, old-fashioned hand-holding. Not only will this help you both keep the spark alive, physical affection is also known to increase relationship satisfaction, lower stress levels and blood pressure, and simply make you feel good, according to Psychology Today.

Attention

And no, looking into her eyes during halftime doesn't count. You two have a lot going on in your lives, from jobs to kids to a home, hobbies and friends. But that doesn't mean you can't spend a few minutes every day giving your wife some undivided attention. Put your phone down, turn the TV off and focus on your wife.

Conversation

If conversations with your wife are usually limited to discussions on kids' school schedules, family dinner menus and leaky faucets, your wife is probably wishing for more. Sure, you'll still need to arrange carpool schedules and weekend plans, but try broaching a topic that's important to your wife - like how her yoga class went that day. Without personal, meaningful conversation, it's easy to fall into a marital rut. You know your wife better than anyone, but it's never too late to get to know her better.

A good time

Life is short, and marriage is filled with obligations and responsibility. Remind your wife how fun your relationship can be. Daily life can be monotonous and even mundane, so make sure your marriage is anything but. Treat your wife to silliness, humor and fun on a regular basis. Carve out time for a miniature golf session (even better if you're terrible at it) or a fun night on the town (stress on the word "fun").

Relaxation

Women are pretty amazing creatures. From ruling the board room to caring for children to mastering yoga poses, there's nothing your wife can't do. That said, if it's been a while since she's taken some time to relax and pamper herself, you might need to step in and make sure it happens. Give her a day to herself to get a facial, body scrub and just relax at a spa.

Send her to Island Spa and Sauna where, for only $39, she can spend the day completely rejuvinating in their four hot tubs and several saunas. She can also get massages, facials or a Korean body scrub. (It's like an amusement park of relaxation!)

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