Appreciation....a word I couldn't get out of my mind this past Saturday. While relaxing with Vic, spending time with our nephew Eric and his delightful wife Daniella in Miami, my heart was flush with gratitude.

Eric and Daniella invited us into their lives to do pre-marriage counseling a couple years ago...the perks of technology with  Skype/Facetime, making it possible to connect  Burlington, Wa to  Miami, Florida on Sunday evenings! We have enjoyed spending time with them, in person, this past weekend, watching how they appreciate one another.  It has been encouraging to  hear them express affirmations, listen and even navigate through a difficult conversation.

Demonstrating genuine appreciation for one another in marriage in simple, consistent measures....small or large, breathes life into a relationship. As we approach  25 years of married life, I reflect on seasons I have done this well, and others I've failed miserably, focusing more on self.

This train of thought takes me back to one of my favorite words...intentional. By appreciating (a verb), our spouses intently, we have significant opportunity to love well, influence, heal and build trust with the most important relationship on earth. Mutual appreciation can lead to deeper friendship and intimacy. What a gift it is to give and receive this act of kindness in marriage.

Heading into 2017,  one of my goals is to shower words of admiration, respect and love towards Vic...even on our worst days. If you reading this and feel you have fallen short...you are not alone, likely most of us have. Ask forgiveness and in His grace run forward! I'm reminded by scripture and a recent post from a friend, " God's mercy is fresh and new every single morning. May it be a day of wonder, joy, contentment and grace." Start anew! 

Monique