practical
9 Simple, uber-practical ways to express gratitude this month
Free printable! 32 Ways to Make the Most of Reading with Kids
Enjoy this free printable with 32 different ideas to make the most of reading with children.
9 ways you might be cannibalizing your personal conflict, Part II
I’m realizing something. Godly responses to conflict are pretty much all counter-natural–or more specifically, super-natural. They beg an overhaul of what I typically want to do.
Your opportunity…vs. your call
I’ve written about my overcommitment before, and the true cost to my family. But it’s challenging when it’s not a bunch of nonessentials munching at the white space on my calendar. It’s people. People with needs; pain; longings; hope.
And it was then that words from a friend drove themselves home, settling in my chest: The need does not always constitute the call.
![Now you’re speaking my [love] language: 20 ways to express affection through quality time](https://www.janelbreitenstein.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/love-languages-text-1.jpg)
Now you’re speaking my [love] language: 20 ways to express affection through quality time
5.Head to an event together–a ball game, a concert, a play, a lecture, a comedian–and grab a bite to eat before or after.
6.Go for a walk or hike together.
7.Exercise together. You might even set a goal (“let’s do P90-X!” “let’s run a 5K!” “Let’s see if we can bench that much by the end of the month!).
Now you’re speaking my love language: 20 ways to display affection through acts of service
1.Knock out that item on her to-do list she just hasn’t gotten to.
2.What little touches could better make your home a “prepared place”–like God creates for us–that’s comforting, encouraging, and uplifting, so family and guests feel embraced? For guests, it may be the basket of extra toiletries next to the cozy towel in the bathroom; for kids, you could have a favorite snack ready when he arrives home; help him remove his backpack.
Now you’re speaking my [love] language: Showing affection through gifts
1.The key with communicating in this love language (so I’m told) is to study the recipient well, and communicate your understanding of him or her through the gift. It’s not about the size, but the intentional, knowing thoughtfulness, a demonstration of I get you. I see you.
2.Purchase tickets for the event you know he or she would love.
3.Have a cup of coffee (or a favorite morning beverage) ready when he or she comes out in the morning–just the way they like it–or a snack when they arrive home.
![Now you’re speaking my [love] language: 20 ways to express affection through physical touch](https://www.janelbreitenstein.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/download-2024-07-08T165859.251.png)
Now you’re speaking my [love] language: 20 ways to express affection through physical touch
1.Put an arm around his or her shoulder.
2.Hug them in the morning, or when they arrive home, or to wish them good night.
3.Sit next to each other while watching a movie.
4.Throw your arms around their neck while they’re sitting in a chair.