Category: All posts

What You Were Told As A Kid Doesn’t Work: The Art & Science of Word Use

Remember the ditty, “Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me”? Totally ridiculous, wasn’t it? The phrase would supposedly protect us from verbal attacks on the playground at school. If you think about the flip-side of the phrase, it means it’s OK for the bully to use verbal attacks. After… Read more »

Your Relationship: Is It Functional, Adaptable, or Sustainable?

Life, as we experience it now, is functional, adaptable, or sustainable. In other words, our society produces what we need to function – food, shelter, clothing, and all the things we need to survive. At an unconscious level, we only want peace and happiness, yet these basics just don’t cut it. That’s a problem. So,… Read more »

Retreat in Nature: Healing power and honest conversation

Our world is a busy place.  Yet if you take the time to get out in nature, there is healing power in being unplugged from technology and away from distractions.  As a couple, it stimulates honest, open communication and strengthens your relationship, if you are willing to be a bit vulnerable.  It is worth the… Read more »

Job Jar: A simple family tool for empowerment, collaboration, pride, and fun

When coaching with couples (especially those with young children), we often hear concerns about household tasks that don’t get done, or resentment about which person needs to do them. The resentments are often due to unmet and uncommunicated expectations about “the way it should be.” Yet, at the core, these parents usually share a common… Read more »

Garage Sale Unwanted Stuff & Behaviour

Ever had a garage sale? Yes, we know there are some things that are tough to get rid of.  Eventually, you just breath and let it go. It works the same way with behaviour you have that doesn’t serve a purpose anymore.  Eventually, you just breath and let it go. Check out this great video,… Read more »

2 X 2 Couple’s Retreat: 10 Reasons to do it

Where we live out in the “sticks,” most of us have a 4 X 4 truck.  For us, it’s a no-brainer – for stability, safety, flexibility, and power. Our 4 X 4 keeps us solidly on the road, regardless of the conditions.  When consciously attending to conditions, we travel safely and get where we’re going. … Read more »

Focused Time Will Make It Fine: It’s a juggling act

Where does your relationship with your partner fit on your list of priorities? Weird question because I don’t have a written list of my priorities in life (roles).  Do you? Yet if we evaluate how we distribute our time, effort, and attention, it is very clear that you and I DO have an unconscious list… Read more »

On Valentine’s Day, Just Be Nice!!

Valentine’s Day, every February 14, is a day to celebrate Love and affection. Why do we need a day designated for that?  That’s ludicrous, don’t you think? The greeting card companies love it.  The candy companies love it.  Flower shops love it. Fancy restaurants love it.  Many of them rake in millions of dollars every… Read more »

7 Steps to Fight Fairly: aka Reframe the Fight to Make it Right

Does the relationship game need to include fighting, battling, and arguing?  Those aren’t great ways to build trust. As coaches, we regularly receive inquiries such as (taken directly from emails): “We need to learn to fight fair.” “We’re struggling with the battles.” “How can we fight and get the best outcome?” A phrase rushes through… Read more »

Do You Play These 6 Chords To Make Your Relationship A Classic?

Classic relationship

At Connections Coffee House in Sangudo, Carol regularly arranges for musicians to perform evening shows. Naturally, there are wonderful songs filled with beautiful chords, and many of them are about relationships. Most times, we have the extreme honour to host these talented people at our home – to provide them with accommodations and meals until… Read more »