Building “Hedges” Around Your Marriage

January 21st, 2008 by Administrator

Building “Hedges” around Your Christian Marriage Author
Interview with Nancy C. Anderson, Avoiding the Greener Grass
Syndrome By Lisa M. Hendey

I typically “blur over” when reading books related to
relationships, but Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome (Kregel,
December 2004, paperback, 112 pages) by Nancy C. Anderson
grabbed me from page one. This is probably due to the fact that
Anderson takes time to share her own experience and marriage
prior to jumping into suggestions for how you can improve yours.

In the first section of the book, we learn why Nancy calls
herself a “cheater” on the opening page and we experience the
strains and near break up of her own marriage. Thanks to the
power of prayer, true forgiveness and the guidance of loving
parents, Nancy and Ron were able to work through the challenges
they faced and have now gone on to be happily married for 26
years.

Given this backdrop, the second section of the book is filled
with helpful principles that will enable couples to avoid the
many extramarital temptations that may crop up in even the
strongest of Christian marriages. Nancy shares her ideas and
wisdom in a fun, very readable fashion.

The “things to do” and “things to think about” sections at the
completion of each chapter help to pull together the concepts
presented and to apply them to one’s own relationship. This is a
great resource for couples in all stages of marriage and equally
valuable to couples either happily married or facing challenges.
Invest the time to read this book and share it with your spouse.

Nancy Anderson has the following to share about her new book and
safeguarding your Christian marriage.

Q: Nancy thanks so much for your time and for this great book!
You start off right away by introducing yourself as a “cheater”.
Why did you feel compelled to share your own experience of
adultery in this book and how do you hope that this can help
readers?

A: The reason I tell my story is to, hopefully, prevent it from
becoming someone else’s story. I am willing to say, “I’ve been
to the other side of the fence and I can tell you that the grass
is NOT greener. It’s full of weeds and thorns…it’s a lie.” I
want to tell couples that if they water their own marriages,
they can grow a beautiful, healthy “green” relationship in their
own backyard.

Q: Could you please briefly describe the six protective “hedges”
we can build around our marriages to keep them intact and
flourishing?

A: The H.E.D.G.E.S. are all action words, because we have to be
proactive in our marriages, always rebuilding, remodeling, and
reconnecting as life brings challenges that can divide us.

Hearing - Listening to your spouse is they key to unlocking
their heart. People who have committed adultery often say, “My
wife/husband never listened to me - they never heard me.” “The
hearing ear and the seeing eye, the Lord has made both of them.”
Prov. 20:12.

Encouraging - Experience the teamwork building power of a
helping hand and a compliment. Focus on the positive qualities
of your mate. “So then, let us aim for harmony…and try to build
each other up.” Romans 14:19

Dating - Build a life that celebrates marriage. Have fun, laugh
and play together. “Let your fountains be blessed. Rejoice with
the wife (husband) of your youth.” Proverbs 5:18

Guarding - Establish safeguards for your relationship. Set clear
boundaries, that neither of you should cross. “Above all else,
guard your heart, for it affects everything you do.” Proverbs
4:23

Educating - Study your mate as if he or she was a textbook. Seek
to understand and appreciate your mate’s unique qualities.
“Dwell with your wife according to knowledge” 1st Peter 3:7

Satisfying - Meet each other’s needs. Ask your spouse what he or
she needs from you, and then do those things. “You shall be like
a well-watered Garden” Isaiah 58:11

Q: What role should faith play in the marital union? Why is
commitment to a Church family so integral?

A: When I had my affair, my husband and I were lukewarm
Christians who were not attending church. That lack of
accountability lead to my self-deceptive thinking. I didn’t get
Godly council and I took advice from non-Christians. I believed
the world’s lie; “You deserve to be happy,” I sought feelings
over truth and selfishness over self-control. I took God off the
throne of my life and lived to please myself.

Now, with Christ as the foundation of our marriage and our
church as our social and spiritual base, we stand firm and
accountable to other Christians.

Q: I know that many couples who are experiencing marital
challenges will benefit from their reading of your book, but why
should happily married couples invest their time in reading
Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome?

A: Because preventing an affair is always better than trying to
recover from one. Some security firms hire reformed burglars to
show them where their property is vulnerable; I can show you
where your marriage may be vulnerable. Also, every husband and
wife should know the warning signs that may indicate your mate
is having an affair. If you have a good marriage, this book will
give you creative ways to make it great. It has many fun and
practical ways to keep your marriage fresh and exciting.

Q: You discuss planting “guarding hedges” in some of the areas
of one’s life where temptation might creep in - could you please
say a few words about these, especially the workplace and church
environments.

A: Jake and I worked together. He told me that I was funny,
pretty and smart. He laughed at my jokes and bathed me in
compliments. Those compliments were like magnets and I became
very attracted to him. My husband was critical and rarely
praised me, so I was starving for positive attention. I’m not
excusing what I did, but the workplace can be a dangerous
environment if you are not being “watered” at home.

Most affairs begin with a flirtation and flirting can happen
anywhere, even at church. Choir members, Sunday school teachers,
and committee leaders often work together at church activities,
and that can lead to trouble if the relationship becomes too
personal. We have to guard our hearts, even at church. If you
are attracted to someone, stay away, and don’t allow an
inappropriate bond to form - we are told to flee temptation.

Q: Thanks again for your time. What do you feel is the single
most important factor in creating and maintaining a successful
marriage?

A: For me it has been the friendship factor. I not only love my
husband, I like him. Our relationship is not just based on
passion and romance, it’s deeper than that. Those things may
come and go during the years, but our friendship, trust and
devotion are stronger and more stable that our emotions. Love
based on caring for each other and a firm commitment to Christ
is described in Ecclesiastes 4:12b where is says that a
three-stranded cord is not easily broken. If you love God, and
each other, in thought word and deed, your
three-stranded-marriage will survive and thrive.

For more information on Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome
visit
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/082542013x/catholicmomcom

Lisa M. Hendey, wife, mother and webmaster of
http://www.CatholicMom.com and http://www.ChristianColoring.com
is an avid reader and writes from Fresno, California. Visit her
at http://www.lisahendey.com for more information.

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Selecting the perfect gift for her

January 20th, 2008 by Administrator

Selecting the perfect gift for her”

Do you find it difficult to find that perfect gift for her? Are
you worried that she might not like the gift you select?

If you are looking for an easier way to select that perfect
romantic gift for the man you love, then read on ..

You will not only discover that she will love your gift, but you
will also make her realize that she will enjoy and appreciate
your gift wholeheartedly..

You’re probably asking yourself “How can I accomplish that, most
times when i give her a gift, it goes unappreciated”

Well let me give you 3 things that women want and desire as
gifts from the men they love…

1. They want to receive love, desire, passion & appreciation.

2. They want to receive understanding and acceptance for who
they are.. 3. They want to receive your joy and happiness,
knowing that she makes you happy.

Women show their love and appreciation through actions, when
given all of the above. All those special occasions when we
desperately can’t decide on what to give the women we love, we
think they’ll be happy and content receiving the material gifts.
Of course, they would love you and be happy when receiving the
jewelry, designer fragrances, intimate apparel, candles,
lovemake books or whatever the gift. The fact of the matter is
they most desire and will appreciate a gift given from the
heart, your love at full blast !!!!

Here are some ideas …

1. The day of the special occasion, make sure that you tell her
or write it down on a piece of paper, how lucky you are too have
her in your life..

2. Tell her that she is the hottest, sexiest, most attractive,
gorgeous, sweetest person in the world…(you can choose your
own words, make sure that you follow up with a big wet smooch
attesting to those words)

3. Plan to make this day special, let her know that you will do
whatever it takes to make this day one she will always remember.
Ask her beforehand if she had one wish what would it be, then
try to follow up with it. Be creative it is the little things
that count..

If you make this a priority in giving her the gift that she will
love and most desires, showing your appreciation for her own
existence, I guarantee you that she will fall head over heels,
with whatever material gift you wish to give her .. Which of
course, women always love to receive precious gifts from the man
they love…

So whatever material gift you decide to give her on the special
occasion whether it be jewelry, designer fragrances, intimate
apparel, wine gift baskets, sex drive enhancers, love make
books, love music, or maybe even romantic lingerie, know that if
you initially give her a gift of love.. She will love your
gift..

Share the love this season.. love is a beautiful thing..

Best wishes,

Janett Colon, Believes that people can discover true happiness
and meaningful lives, through sharing and Experiencing true
intimacy with our inner selves and with the ones we love.
Offering articles & tips and Free newsletter to improve romance,
and better our lives. Webmaster/owner of www.a-gift-of-love.com

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Caricature Entertainment: A Surefire Way to Liven Up Your Wedding Celebration

December 30th, 2007 by Administrator

Caricature entertainment will make your wedding celebration stand out and be
remembered.

If you’ve never seen caricatures drawn at an event, you’ll be amazed when
you see how popular they are with guests. Not only do they have a great time, they
leave with a memento to cherish.

This article will discuss why it is a great idea to include caricature entertainment at
your wedding reception. Then it will furnish tips on finding and booking the
perfect artist for your event.

People love to watch an artist draw. The transformation of blank paper into a
drawing that captures a guest’s personality and character is nothing short of
magical. A competent caricature artist performs this seemingly effortless feat in just
a few short minutes.

And, so, an audience will quickly form to watch the magic (and have some
good natured fun with the ‘victim in the hot seat.’)

In fact, the better your guests know each other the more likely there will be some
ribbing. But that is part of the fun. Especially if you have a family of practical jokers
like mine.

Many people think of party caricature as children’s entertainment. It is. The 40 and
50 year-old kids have as much - or more - fun as well as the little ones.

Which makes it perfect for wedding receptions where there are few if any
chronological children present.

But what makes caricature entertainment really special is that your guests receive
a keepsake to take home. Their drawing is a one-of-a-kind memento they will
cherish.

Clients have shown me caricature drawings from ten, even twenty years ago. Some
had framed them and hung them on a wall.

For an added touch, ask the artist to print an inscription such as “Jenny and Joe’s
Wedding, March 6, 2006″ onto the drawing stock ahead of time.

So, where do you find a caricature artist?
• Word of mouth: Ask your friends, neighbors, colleagues in the office. If they used
someone and were happy, chances are you will be, too.

• Your wedding coordinator or event planner: She may offer to make the
arrangements for you.

• Venues, caterers, DJs, and other vendors often have preferred vendor lists.

• Search the internet. You’ll be able to see the artist’s samples, too.

• Other places: Booking agencies, the local convention and visitors bureau or
chamber of commerce, trade organizations such as ISES (International Special Events
Society - www.ises.com), the Yellow Pages, and ads in hospitality industry and local
publications.

Choosing your artist(s)
Since artist styles can range from mild to wild, you’ll want to see artist samples of
caricaturists under consideration. Since most caricature artists have websites these
days, it is easy to view their samples online.

One benchmark of a competent party caricature artist is that he ought to be able to
render a black & white likeness of a person’s head and shoulders (caricature
portrait) in 5 minutes or less (10 minutes for a couple). If your event is large,
consider hiring more than one artist.

Also, your artist should have experience working in a special event setting. That is
because demands on a party artist are much different than the demands on a studio
or theme park artist.

Rates
Like other party performers, (and unlike artists at theme parks or the boardwalk),
caricature artists base their fee on an hourly rate subject to a minimum.

Your artist will furnish his or her own easel or drawing set up and supply all drawing
paper and art supplies.

When choosing your artist, remember that maximum value and the lowest rate
are not the same.

It takes years of experience to develop sufficient drawing skill to maintain consistent
quality and speed. And it takes experience to develop the skill to handle some of
the stickier interpersonal aspects of party work. So expect students and
inexperienced artists to quote you a lower rate. But as the adage goes, you get what
you pay for.

Booking the artist
If you are dealing directly with the artist, you will receive a contract spelling out the
details.

Most times, you’ll be asked to pay a deposit to hold the reservation. The balance
will be due at the event.

Last, but not least:
If you choose to add caricature entertainment to your wedding reception, relax,
enjoy yourself, and make sure you get your turn in the ‘hot seat.”

About the author

Ellen M. Zucker has entertained at weddings and other kinds of special events for
over 10 years. Her company, Faces & Fortunes, provides caricature artists in the
Philadelphia and Delaware Valley region. For more information, visit
http://www.facesandfortunes.com

Her sister site, http://www.faces-and-fortunes-partytips.com contains tips,
interviews, and advice on putting your event together from the professionals who
make parties and special events happen.

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How to choose the perfect wedding favors reception gift

December 17th, 2007 by Administrator

When trying to choose a good wedding favor or gift you may feel
lost. It helps to have some guidelines when trying to pick out
the best wedding or bridal shower gift. Instead of ambling about
the store aimlessly you can have a good idea what you are
looking for. Having a main idea of what you want to buy helps
the process go smoothly without hassle.

Considering the couple’s wants and needs, your relationship to
the couple and your budget will help you to make the right
wedding gift choice. Many couples now use store registries to
let guests know what they would want for their wedding.
Registries list items the couple have chosen throughout the
store as to what they would like ot have. If someone has bought
something from the list it is taken off, so you know when you
look at the list that nobody has bought the items. Most lists
will include the number of each item the couple wants.

If the couple lists they want four wine glasses, you could buy
two and let someone else get the other two. Registries are also
nice because you can quickly see what to buy and be out of the
store in a matter of minutes. Of course there are some not so
good things about registries. They are computer-based, so
sometimes you will not be able to access them. Also if the
wedding is out of town where the store the couple is registered,
it may not be easily accessible to you. If the couple has
registered and it is convenient for you this is the easiest way
to choose a good wedding gift.

Another consideration is your personal relationship with the
couple. Base your gift on how well you know them. An
acquaintance from work isn’t expected to buy as extravagant a
gift as a best friend would. If you only know one of them you
should still buy a gift they will both use and like. If you
really have no clue about what they want or need you can give
money or a gift certificate with a nice card.

Make sure your wedding reception gift is appropriate and useful.
Any gift for a wedding or bridal shower is always truly
appreciated, so do not feel as if you have to give the best gift
ever. Your budget is always a consideration when shopping for a
wedding gift. Nobody expects you to bankrupt yourself when
buying them a wedding gift. Set an amount you can comfortably
spend and stick to it. If your budget is small just be creative
and buy what you can.

If you’ve checked out the registry and nothing on it fits your
budget then buy the couple something useful, but simple. For
example a bucket of cleaning supplies would be appreciated by
any new couple, but won’t break the bank for you. The couple
will be more grateful that you came to their wedding then
worried about how much you spent on their gift.

Keep in mind these helpful pointers to choose a wedding
reception gift that will be appreciated by the couple. You
should look at their registry, if you can, consider your
relationship with them and keep your budget in mind so that you
choose a nice gift that works. Never worry that the couple will
not like your gift or think you are cheap. As long as your
intentions are good, they will love anything you give them.

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Signs of a cheating spouse

December 9th, 2007 by Administrator

The signs of cheating spouse can vary for each individual. Some
people are just plain better at deception than others. If you
have a suspicion that your spouse may be secretly hiding an
affair with another individual whatever you do do not confront
your mate. Confronting your spouse can possibly make the affair
harder to prove because they will go to even greater lengths to
hide what is really going on. Instead, go over the list of signs
and if your significant other is showing or has shown more than
a few of these it may be a good idea to hire a professional to
get you solid evidence.

A few very common signs of a cheating spouse include:

*A change in sex life: The cheater wants nothing to do with sex,
wants a lot more sex, or has unexplained sexual requests or
utilizes new sexual techniques. *A sudden change in appearance:
He/She is working out all of a sudden; their taste in clothing
has changed, change in cologne.

*The cheater has a definite attitude change towards everyone in
the household especially the mate, picking fights for no reason.
*Unexplained absences, working late, hang up phone calls.

*The cheater may begin to find fault in his/her spouse to try to
justify the affair. *Unrecognized and frequently called phone
numbers on your mates cell phone bill.

*Leaving home during an argument, many cheaters will provoke a
fight so they can leave the home to call or visit the other
person. *Taking business or leisure trips alone

*Having new friends

*Taking showers as soon as returning home

*Will do the laundry when they never used to, or at a time when
they normally would not. They may be trying to hide the signs of
smoke, lipstick, bodily fluids, etc.

*Smelling of perfume or alcohol *The Mileage on his/her vehicle
seems excessive. *Their use of the computer or internet is
excessive or secretive.

*A gut feeling (intuition is real)

If you are familiar with one or more of these signs, you may
have a problem on your hands. Common advice I give clients that
are suspicious of their spouse is to keep a journal of their
spouse’s activities for two weeks. This will help establish a
pattern and make it easier for an investigator to prove or
disprove infidelity. It is not easy to admit that your spouse
may be having an affair. Infidelity does not discriminate. It
can affect anyone of any race, color, or creed. It does not
matter if you are rich or poor, where you live, or your age.
Infidelity can exist in your home, and you can be its victim.
Cheaters cheat for several different reasons but it is very
important to remember if your spouse is indeed having an affair
that it is NOT your fault. It is extremely common for the
infidel to try to place the blame on you. Saying things like “I
wouldn’t have done it if”… or “You refuse to do this, so”….
Attempts to shift the blame is nothing but the persons guilt
spontaneously combusting during a stressful situation. Life is
about choices and it was not your choice for your mate to cheat,
it was theirs.

If you want proof, it is highly recommended that you do hire a
professional. What you plan on doing with any evidence that you
obtain is your choice. Whether it is seeking counseling or a
matrimonial attorney, nobody can tell you what choice is the
best.

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New Findings on Happiness Have Implications for Rocky Marriages

November 30th, 2007 by Administrator

Not only do individuals who follow Time Magazine’s “Eight Steps Toward a More Satisfying Life” suggestions (Time, January 17, 2005, p. A8-A9) increase their own level of happiness, they also increase the odds that they can keep their marriage.

The same actions that can lead to a more satisfying life are the ones that can help to improve a troubled marriage. Two of the Time suggestions are to count your blessings by keeping a gratitude journal and to learn to forgive.

These same steps are necessary to maximize a spouse’s efforts to cope with a marriage that is in danger of falling apart. In their book Keep Your Marriage: What To Do When Your Spouse says “I don’t love you anymore” co-authors Nancy J. Wasson, Ph.D. and Lee Hefner also advise spouses to keep a gratitude journal.

According to Wasson and Hefner, this might seem like a strange recommendation, but it’s when things aren’t going well that you most need to look for the positive things that are present in your life. They write, “A gratitude journal gives you a nudge to remind yourself of the many blessings already present in your life…Being aware of your blessings gives you a broader, more balanced perspective of your life.”

This, they contend, jump starts the process of being able to see an increased number of positives instead of overlooking them as people in crisis often do. While spouses may start out listing positives such as watching a beautiful sunset, the process makes it easier for them to begin noticing what’s right about their partner and marriage instead of only focusing on the negative aspects.

The co-authors also agree with the Time suggestion of learning to forgive as a key ingredient in a happy life. They state that “Forgiveness involves letting go of resentment and blame. It’s something that you do for yourself when you are ready to let go of depleting anger.” Wasson and Hefner contend that shaky marriages are usually full of grudges and hurts from the past.

According to Dr. Wasson, “Someone has to take the lead in making healthy changes that can change the present dynamics of blame and resentment. One partner deciding to forgive themselves and the partner for not being perfect can have an amazing impact on the marriage and its chances to survive the crisis.”

The Time article recommends writing a letter of forgiveness to the person who has hurt or wronged you. Co-author Hefner sees this as a “courageous step of taking responsibility for your own happiness and well-being, as well as the health of your relationship.”

According to the Time article, University of Illinois psychologist Edward Diener, a.k.a. Dr. Happiness, has found that loss of a spouse is one of two life events that seem to “knock people lastingly below their happiness set point.” (The other is loss of a job.) Seventy-three percent of participants in a recent Time poll responded that their relationship with their spouse or partner or their love life is a major source of happiness.

Based on the current findings, Wasson and Hefner state that it makes more sense than ever to recognize the potential of a marriage to boost happiness and health and to work to keep and improve it.

EzineArticles Expert Author Nancy Wasson

Nancy J. Wasson, Ph.D., is co-author of Keep Your Marriage: What to Do When Your Spouse Says “I don’t love you anymore!” The e-book is available at http://www.KeepYourMarriage.com , where you can also sign up for the free Keep Your Marriage Internet Magazine. Contact Nancy at Nancy@KeepYourMarriage.com.

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Wedding Themes-8 Tips for Creative Success

November 5th, 2007 by Administrator

You want your wedding to reflect who you are as a couple-unique and special. If a traditional wedding seems a little a little boring, consider a theme wedding—one of the hottest trends in weddings today.

Whether you’re into all things western or romantic strolls on the beach, butterflies or fairytales, the most important aspect in choosing a theme is that it be something that you consider to be romantic and fun. After all, memories of your wedding day will be cherished for a lifetime.

8 Tips for Planning a Themed Wedding

1. Consider the time of year for your wedding. A beach bash may not work in February; just as a winter wonderland theme will melt in July.

2. If you want your guests to participate in the theme by dressing in costume, then let them know early. A good way to do this is with your choice of announcements and invitations.

3. Make sure that your attendants and groomsmen are supportive of the idea, particularly with regard to wedding attire. No one wants to feel uncomfortable on your wedding day.

4. Discuss your plans with the wedding officiate to make sure he or she harbors no objections.

5. The ‘less is more’ adage is true with regard to decorations. Avoid overkill and choose one or two major motifs from a theme and use decorations sparingly.

6. Talk to your wedding vendors. With theme weddings on the rise in popularity, these wedding professionals may be able to offer ideas to pull your theme together.

7. If you have chosen a theme and are having difficulty implementing your plans, hire a wedding coordinator to help. Coordinators may have the wedding industry contacts to help plan your theme wedding down to the very last detail.

8. Do not let the theme detract from the meaning of the day. Your wedding day is only one day-the first of many in your new life together.

For more inspirational ideas, visit http://www.WhereBridesGo.com where you can find more than 1,000 items to help you create a beautiful themed wedding.

Sherrie Thompson is an Assistant at WhereBridesGo.com and MSW Interactive Designs LLC (MSW-ID), purveyors of complete online solutions for wedding professionals. Thompson’s work on the bridal storefront WhereBridesGo.com has given her first-hand knowledge of the latest trends and sought-after products in the wedding industry. Follow Brides in-the-know to WhereBridesGo.com, http://www.WhereBridesGo.com

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How Can Collaborative Law Be Beneficial In Your “Texas Divorce”?

October 29th, 2007 by Administrator

Collaborative law is based on the realization that the commitment by the parties in a family is that it is in their best interest to avoid going to trial.

This process relies on open and honest communication and cooperation between the parties and their lawyers to achieve a fair result. This is a revolutionary approach to law, and legal professionals from all over the country are flocking to Dallas, Houston, and Austin which are the cities leading the way in developing this new approach to solving family law problems.

When a husband and a wife agree to handle their divorce through collaborative law, they agree to identify the goals, values, and interests of each parties. Both the husband and the wife maintain control over their decisions and how their family will make this life transition.

The collaborative law process takes dispute resolution to whole new level. Texas is at the national forefront of this exciting new way to solve family law problems. Our normal legal system uses an adversarial process to settle disputes. Collaborative law attorneys abandon this process, and instead use “team approach”.

What does this mean for a couple in the process of a divorce?

Instead of playing alot of “legal games” which end up costing everyone alot of legal fees, both parties and their lawyers agree to cooperate and share the information needed to achieve a fair property settlement. This process is used for couples who both do and do not have children. If necessary, the parties agree to use neutral consultants such as CPA’s, Appraisers, and sometimes Mental Health professionals.

In spite of all the jokes you hear about lawyers, we really do CARE about our clients. We care about their pain, their frustration, and we care about helping to protect their kids from the “fallout” of this emotional period.

We also care about the financial cost of divorce. The less parties “fight”, the less they have to pay their attorneys, and the more money they have to divide between themselves and/or spend on their kids!

Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

This article is designed for general information only. This information is not intended to be legal advice. Consult an attorney for before making any legal decisions based on your individual circumstances.

Marilyn Gale Vilyus is a houston family law lawyer practicing in divorce, child support, child custody, and divorce mediation.

Law Office of Marilyn Gale Vilyus
Attorney/ Mediator
16151 Cairnway Drive Ste. 210
Houston, TX 77084 281-550-6650
http://www.westhoustonattorney.com

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Men’s Wedding Bands: Help, Ideas, And Advice

October 25th, 2007 by Administrator

It wasn’t too long ago that the selection of wedding rings for men in jewelry stores was limited to gold and platinum wedding bands. Nowadays, the selection of men’s wedding rings is just as varied as those for women. The reason behind the big switch is demand. More and more men are opting for more than a traditional wedding band. If you hadn’t considered more than a plain wedding band, the following information about what is now available for men may offer you an alternative.

Probably the most widespread change in the wedding band that you can choose is the type of metal. Gold and platinum are no longer the only choices you have for a wedding band. There is also Tungsten, two-toned gold, stainless steel, and titanium. A Tungsten wedding band is a good choice for a wedding band because of its durability and quality. A wedding band made of Tungsten won’t tarnish, is difficult to scratch, and has a natural shine. Tungsten does not contain an alloy metal so it probably won’t cause an allergic reaction.

Can’t decide between gold and platinum? A two-toned gold wedding band is the answer! A wedding band that features metals with opposite properties is appealing to men who are interested in a wedding band that looks good at both work and play. This type of wedding band is usually inexpensive. Stainless steel has made a come back in the jewelry industry. Like Tungsten, stainless steel is very durable. It makes a handsome wedding band for a man who wants a stylish wedding band without frill and an expensive price tag.

The best seller of men’s wedding jewelry is Titanium. The reason Titanium is so popular with men is style. The hammered Titanium wedding band is particularly popular with men because it has a rugged look. Men who opt not to wear a wedding band often do so because they consider wearing jewelry to be feminine. A Black titanium wedding band is also a big hit with men. Its color is definitely an attention getter, especially when combined with a diamond or other metal, such as gold.

With the new styles of wedding band available to men, bridal sets are becoming more popular. These sets are a great choice for couples that want to share in the same style of ring. Another reason a couple may choose to purchase a bridal set is because wedding rings are typically less expensive when purchased in a set. The only foreseeable problem is the couple having to choose a single style they both like.

For a free course on finding the best discount wedding invitations and discount wedding dresses, visit www.discountweddingguide.com/ today.

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Romance And Happy Marriage Myths

October 21st, 2007 by Administrator

The institution of marriage is surrounded by a number of myths,
stories and advice freely offered by people on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, many people listen to and believe these pieces of
so-called wisdom to the point where it doesn’t help their
marriage and it only hinders its growth.

Many of the myths regarding relationships are incredibly
damaging and it is unfortunate that they are such common
beliefs. Once you understand why certain bits of advice or
information can be regarded as myths, you can break through what
could be blocking the growth of your marriage.

In fact, you may actually learn to appreciate your spouse and
your role in your marriage even more.

Sensationalist television, magazines and talk radio have been
key players when it comes to fueling any belief that there is a
battle between the sexes happening.

While there are definitively some physical and psychological
differences, they are not enough to earn the term ‘battle’ as a
description.

When you allow yourself to consider any kind of battle between
the sexes, you risk grouping all men or all women into a certain
category and that leads to stereotyping.

Once you recognize that your partner is a unique individual with
a number of positive attributes, you can shed the thought that
there should be any type of conflict between the two of you.

Any thought of battle or conflict only leads to lack of
communication, misunderstandings and discourages growth in any
relationship.

Nice guys finish last is one of the worst possible sayings
floating around today.

Whoever thought of that and actually uttered those words must
have been feeling truly low and full of self-pity because there
simply cannot be any other explanation. Nice guys never finish
last.

They may have a longer and harder road sometimes, but it isn’t
often that you see the bullies and jerks finishing first. If
they aren’t, who is? It’s the nice guys, but they are so nice
and gracious you don’t hear them bragging about it.

It is also important to note that the word ‘nice’ doesn’t mean
‘weak’ or ‘ effeminate’ in any way. Nice means socially or
conventionally correct; refined or virtuous and not at all
negative in any way.

Nice is not another word for push over or spineless. Nice is as
close to a ‘perfect’ man as you can come and they always end up
first in line.

Romance is all you need in order to save your relationship is a
wonderfully optimistic thought, but not quite accurate.

If simple romance were enough to save a marriage, it would be
running wonderfully rampant throughout the world today.
Unfortunately, it takes more than simple romance.

If you truly feel love for your spouse and you are expressing it
through romance, then it will save your marriage. If you are
trying to use romance to buy some time or to placate your
spouse, then you are only buying time or placating your spouse.

Your time as a married couple is most likely limited and should
be attended to immediately by a professional.

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