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Ralph Griggs, MTH

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Category: Marriage

Gottman’s “7 Floors of the Sound Relationship House” — What Strong Marriages Are Built On

Posted on November 12, 2025October 22, 2025 by Ralph Griggs

If you’ve ever wondered why some couples seem to weather anything while others fall apart over small stuff, Dr. John Gottman might have the answer. He’s spent decades studying what makes relationships thrive—or tank—and what he discovered is surprisingly simple: happy couples aren’t luckier or more compatible. They just build their relationship like a strong…

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Want a Happy Marriage? Show Up for Each Other Everyday

Posted on November 6, 2025October 20, 2025 by Ralph Griggs

So, I was reading about this incredible study—it’s actually the longest one ever done on happiness. These Harvard researchers started tracking hundreds of people way back in 1938. They’ve followed them for their entire lives—over 80 years now—just to figure out what makes us thrive. And after all that time, the single biggest takeaway is…

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Staying “You” While Being “Us”

Posted on October 23, 2025October 20, 2025 by Ralph Griggs

My wife and I have been married nearly 50 years now. 50 years! Wow! There are a lot of secrets to a long, healthy marriage but  let’s talk about one of the trickiest parts of a long-term relationship. It’s not just about the day-to-day stuff; it’s about how your relationship is built. This is where…

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Why Couples Get Married (Hint: It’s Not to Fix Anything)

Posted on October 8, 2025October 8, 2025 by Ralph Griggs

People love to believe that marriage is a magic wand — say “I do,” and suddenly all your problems vanish. Hollywood’s been selling that story for decades. But real life (and real research) tell a different tale. A recent long-term study found that the biggest boost in happiness doesn’t happen after the wedding. It happens…

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Keep the Spark Alive (Beyond Netflix and Chill)

Posted on September 18, 2025September 18, 2025 by Ralph Griggs

Intimacy can settle into a comfy routine, but marriage is your cue to remix it. Don’t let “married life” become code for “sweatpants forever.” Practical Tips: Studies show simple acts like saying “I love you” daily keep couples happier long-term.

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From “I Do” to “We Did It”: A Practical Guide for the First Year of Marriage (Part Two)

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Ralph Griggs

Level Up Your Communication (because telepathy is still not a thing) You’ve got the basics down—no more arguments over who pays the rent. But marriage cranks up the need for deeper talks, especially about dreams, fears, and that one habit that’s suddenly more annoying post-vows. Practical Tips: Remember, venting to friends is fine—it doesn’t make…

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From “I Do” to “We Did It”: A Practical Guide for the First Year of Marriage (part 1 of 8)

Posted on August 28, 2025August 28, 2025 by Ralph Griggs

Hey there, newlyweds! Congratulations on making it official. You’ve already nailed sharing Netflix passwords, divvying up chores, and figuring out who handles the grocery runs without turning it into World War III. So why does that ring and certificate suddenly feel like you’ve leveled up in a video game you didn’t know you were playing?…

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The First Year (and Beyond): Marriage Thrive- Guide

Posted on August 27, 2025August 27, 2025 by Ralph Griggs

1. Keep Dating Each Other (Yes, Even If You Share a Bathroom) What it means: Don’t let “Netflix and takeout” become your only date night. How to do it: • Try a new restaurant once a month — even if it’s just the taco truck by the gas station. • Switch off who plans date…

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  • My Tips for the Unplugged Ceremony: Including my most important pro tip.
  • Worried You'll Cry-Ugly During Your Vows? - 6 tips to calm the nerves
  • Things Your Guests Notice That You Don't - the things that get overlooked
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