 By Lavern Nissley
In my 62 years I've seen only a handful of epic events that are in the category of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Where pretty much every news story is about the big topic. Kennedy's assassination in 1963 and 9/11 in 2001 both had that intense emotional feel about them. I vividly remember exactly where I was when first hearing the news. COVID-19 has been longer in developing as a story; it wasn't sudden like the 1963 and 2001 events. However, it has captured worldwide attention and a sense of penetrating personal relevance. Are there any helpful ways to ensure that our relationships aren't damaged, or better yet, grow stronger?
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Starting this month we'll be alternating blog posts and "our stories" videos on Tuesdays. Blog posts will appear on the 1st/3rd Tuesday and videos on the 2nd/4th Tuesdays. Everything we post here is under the umbrella of practical tips & insights for your relationships.  The teaser picture in the March 2 Springfield News-Sun caught my attention. Rob Rue, a friend and Springfield city commissioner, was standing with a group of students holding a sign that said "I UNPLUG TO __________." Hmmmm, wonder what this is about? In a few seconds I was reading the inspirational story of local students promoting the National Day of Unplugging from sunset on Friday, March 6 through sundown on Saturday, March 7.
 By Lavern Nissley
So what would it take to be awarded the "Most Caring City Award"? Apparently Insurify, an insurance comparison shopping website, has figured this out by looking at the percentage of people working in altruistic fields statewide such as "social work, healthcare, counseling, firefighting, teaching and more," according to a January 28, 2020 Springfield New-Sun article. The winner is . . .  By Ronda Nissley
The subject line in an email from Todd from YNAB (You Need A Budget) caught my attention. Money issues are a well-documented source of conflict for couples. Most studies estimate at least 1/3 of all couples report financial issues as their number 1 relationship stressor. So how do we get a handle on financial stress? After 30 years of working with couples, we believe it starts with good communication and conflict resolution skills.  By Lavern Nissley
Last Tuesday we invited blog recipients to complete a simple survey regarding your parents and the example they provided. The actual survey statement was: "My parents demonstrated for me a healthy model of marriage to emulate." Five possible responses were available to select: Strongly agree, Agree, Undecided, Disagree, Strongly disagree. Want to see the results?  By Lavern Nissley
As you think back over your growing up years, what is your impression of the marriage model given to you by your parents? Typically, though not always, we follow in the path of what we've observed. We often hear from couples that they didn't have healthy marriage models to emulate or that they don't know hardly any couples they would consider healthy and/or worthy of imitating. How sad! Would you take a minute to complete a 2 question survey, please? Your responses are totally anonymous (and will not be used against you!) Results will be posted in next week's blog.  By Lavern Nissley
I noticed a recent Facebook post by good friend Jeff Pinkleton about his annual check in with daughter, Leah. He referenced an article from All Pro Dad that provides a helpful framework for doing annual check ins with his kids. Could be appropriate for more frequent than annual, if that's a better rhythm for you. Want to see the questions?  By Lavern Nissley
(reprinted from November 18, 2018 post) "Couples who sweat together, stay together." Really? Yeah, research actually supports surprising benefits from exercising together. Want to know more? And details on an upcoming local opportunity to participate in a couple's boot camp? A 2014 post in Psychology Today cites lab studies that "after jointly participating in an exciting physical challenge or activity, couples report feeling more satisfied with their relationships and more in love with their partner." Apparently, the physiological arousal in being active together stimulates romantic attraction.  Pets often become almost like family members. And when they pass, the loss and grief are real and gripping. It's normal to feel sad, weepy and even depressed as you're coping with not having that special companion nearby anymore.
Our daughter-in-law, Emily, shared a brief reflection on the recent passing of her dog after 9 years of faithful companionship. It is moving and thoughtful, and not just a little bit tear-inducing. |
HostsLavern & Ronda Nissley are co-directors of Encompass. Married since 1978, both enjoy coffee, riding their tandem bicycle and working together to build strong relationships. 
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