Many parents find that after having children, their marriage slowly takes a backseat. The once-strong connection between husband and wife is replaced by endless to-do lists, school activities, and bedtime routines. Before they know it, their relationship feels more like a business partnership than a loving marriage.

Our families shape so much of who we are—our values, beliefs, and even the way we expect relationships to function. But when we get married, those ingrained expectations don’t always align with our spouse’s background. So, what does leaving and cleaving really mean in this context?

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore the complex and often misunderstood topic of expectations in marital intimacy. They welcome special guests Shaunti Feldhahn, an award-winning author and social researcher, and Brian Goins, Senior Director of Strategic Projects at FamilyLife. Together, they delve into the dynamics of initiating and receptive desire, the impact of communication, and practical ways couples can foster understanding and intimacy.

In this blog, Alisa Grace explains that couples don’t just “grow apart”—they stop nurturing their relationship. She shares how intentional daily efforts can rekindle intimacy and connection, offering 25 practical tips like expressing gratitude, showing affection, and spending time together. The core principle is to start each day asking, “What can I do today to make my spouse happy to be alive and married to me?” Alisa encourages practicing a few of these tips consistently to reignite love and strengthen the bond.

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore bids for attention—small interactions that can significantly impact the strength of a relationship. They discuss how recognizing and responding to these bids can prevent couples from drifting apart, drawing on research from Drs. John and Julie Gottman. The Grace's provide practical insights and tips to help you stay connected with your partner, emphasizing the power of intentional time together. Whether you're navigating life with a significant other, friends, or even colleagues, this episode offers valuable advice to improve your relationships.

How much time does it take to stay in love for a lifetime? In this week's blog, Pam Farrel shares the secrets to lasting love, where she unveils the essential time investment needed to keep your marriage lively, offering practical tips and heartfelt anecdotes to reignite the flames of passion and connection.

In this week's episode, CMR Co-Directors Dr. Chris and Alisa Grace discuss how personality impacts our relationships, and offer practical ways we can use personality tools to better understand ourselves and others.

In this week's blog post, Pam Farrel, relationship specialist and bestselling author, gives effective and practical tips to help you build upon the life-changing Biblical hope that will revolutionize your relationship!

How do you prepare for a healthy, vibrant relationship with your spouse before getting married?

In today's Valentine's special, Chris and Alisa Grace are joined by ministry leaders and best-selling authors Bill and Pam Farrel to discuss their book, Red Hot Monogamy: Making Your Marriage Sizzle, and uncover the T.I.M.E. needed to invest in marital intimacy. Listen along to hear what long-lasting intimacy looks like and how their acronym can best help you cultivate red hot monogamy.