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Couple warming hands by the fire in front of cabin surrounded by snow

5 Meaningful “Now & Later” Gift Ideas

By Connection, Quality Time4 Comments

What makes a gift meaningful? Honestly, it probably depends on the person. It could be expensive or free, functional or frivolous, as long as it’s given with intention and thoughtfulness – and makes the recipient feel known, loved, and/or holds sentimental value.

There’s no shortage of meaningful gift ideas out there; you’ve probably given and received some yourself. So we decided to put a spin on it with these two-part gift ideas for your partner. Each one has a component to enjoy right now and another to be saved for later or carried into the future. Let’s get started: Read More

December 22, 2021
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Smiling woman jumping into man's arms in brightly lit doorway

How Gratitude Helps Fend Off Fights

By Conflict, Connection10 Comments

When you think of the way you express and experience gratitude in your relationship, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s kind words, heartfelt gestures, or a loving smile or touch. These are momentary expressions of the sentiment, but the fact is, the influence of a grateful mindset has a way of echoing throughout your entire relationship in a positive way that promotes a sense of harmony. We’re not saying it will prevent you from ever fighting again (conflict can be healthy, after all) but it can help you avoid the unnecessary ones that do more damage than good. Not sure what we mean? Keep reading. Read More

November 17, 2021
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Couple looking lovingly at each other

Break These Habits & Feel More Connected

By Connection12 Comments

Do you have any habits that negatively effect your relationship? Maybe you have a tendency to leave your wet towel on the bed, while your spouse leaves all the drawers and cabinets hanging open. Sure, these habits might get on each other’s nerves, but in most cases they’re surface level offenses and not actually detrimental to the quality of your relationship.

What’s more concerning are habits that seem pretty innocuous in passing, but that sneakily steal away moments of connection. Done once or twice, here and there, they probably aren’t a big deal. But when they become your fallback, your relationship can take the brunt. Break these habits before they break your connection. Read More

October 6, 2021
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Couple in the kitchen hanging out

How to Prepare for a Productive Discussion

By Connection4 Comments

Do you remember the last big discussion you had with your partner? Was it spur of the moment or planned in advance? Were you prepared for it?

We usually associate being prepared with things like taking a test, packing for a trip, or saving money in case of an emergency. Less often do we consider whether we’re prepared to talk to each other. But the fact is, preparing ourselves for an important conversation can be the difference between a game-changing, productive discussion or an argument leaving you both feeling frustrated and disconnected from each other.

The important discussions you have as a couple will likely cover a wide range of topics, whether it’s about managing money, growing your family, changing careers, or your relationship. No matter the topic, you can use the following checklist to make sure you’re both prepared to have the talk: Read More

September 1, 2021
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couple sitting on exercise mat

Hidden Opportunities to Foster Connection

By Connection9 Comments

When it comes to quality time, we often think we need to carve out a special spot in the day/week/month for time to focus on each other and nurture our relationship. This is partially true. Date nights and daily check ins (or some variation of them) are definitely a must-have for maintaining a strong relationship. However, there are actually hidden opportunities to foster connection already tucked throughout your day-to-day life. Here are few to get you started: Read More

August 4, 2021
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Relationship Basics - Part 2

Why You Should Hype Up Date Night

By Connection, Quality Time10 Comments

Dates. Couples are always told to prioritize going on regular dates. We’ve certainly talked a lot about the importance of dates here on the Prepare/Enrich blog. We’ve given many ideas for day dates, cheap dates, weekend getaway dates, at-home dates, the standard date nights, and so on and so forth. We’ve talked about why dates are important – they provide opportunity to connect, go deeper in conversation with each other, and really invest in your relationship. We’ve also helped you overcome common obstacles couples face when they try and schedule a date – childcare, expectations, expense, etc.

But today, we’re sharing why you should hype up dates with your spouse and how you can do that without setting yourselves up for disappointment. Read More

July 7, 2021
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couple sharing an inside joke

How to Nurture Friendship with Your Spouse

By Connection21 Comments

Is your spouse your best friend? If you’re hesitant to say yes, that’s okay. It’s natural to think of your spouse, as well, your spouse. Your “best friend” might be that lifelong childhood buddy or your roommate from freshman year of college. It’s healthy to have good friendships outside your marriage.

But did you know research shows that couples who share a deep friendship are often happier in their relationship? Dr. John Gottman considers friendship the foundation of a strong marriage, and it makes sense. With friendship comes a mutual respect, care and affection for each other. Although physical intimacy is an important part of marriage, there are times and circumstances when it will be lower priority. A strong friendship will help you stay emotionally connected to each other and committed to your relationship. Here’s how you can nurture friendship with your spouse: Read More

June 30, 2021
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Couple holding hands on the beach in the summer

Renew Your Bond with a Summer Bucket List

By Connection, Quality Time4 Comments

Summer is officially in full swing, although with the recent heat wave that’s swept the country you’ve maybe been in summer mode for a few weeks already. There’s something about the longer days and warmer temps that makes everything feel lighter, laid back, and full of potential.

But sometimes, lots of potential means added pressure to maximize the time together, make memories, and enjoy life to the fullest. A summer bucket list is a fun, no-pressure way to make the most of the next three months while connecting with your partner. Here’s why: Read More

June 23, 2021
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3 Ways Empathy Transforms Your Marriage

By Connection, Relationship Basics19 Comments

Some people are natural empaths. They feel what others are feeling without even trying, even people they’ve just met. Most of us have to work at empathy a little more intentionally, even with someone as close to us as our spouse. Research has shown that reminding people what empathy is can actually help them be more empathetic. So as a review for those of us who are not natural empaths, empathy is understanding or feeling what another person is experiencing from within their frame of reference – or in other words, putting yourself in their shoes.

Seeing things from your partner’s frame of reference increases your connection and does wonders for the way you communicate. Here are three scenarios that show how empathy can have a profoundly positive effect on your relationship: Read More

May 19, 2021
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Couple cuddling together on their bed

Putting the Quality in Quality Time

By Connection, Quality Time5 Comments

Our time is so valuable these days. We’re always looking for ways to save time or make the most of our time. When all is said and done, what -or who – are we conserving that time for? Well, many of us want that extra time to spend with our loved ones – our spouse and family. Whether you’re in a super busy season of life or you just want to make the most of the valuable time you spend together, here are three tips for increasing the quality of your quality time:

Read More

April 21, 2021
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