4 Things Dr. Seuss Teaches Us About Perseverance

I grew up reading Dr. Seuss books. Cat in the Hat, Hop on Pop, and Green Eggs and Ham were some of my favorites. Theodor “Dr.Seuss” Geisel is the number one children’s author of all time having written and illustrated 44 books. But did you know he was rejected 27 times before being published? So, what enabled […]
Confession: My Husband and I Struggle Too

Today, my wife Susan, director of iMOM, is going to share with us about how we struggle in our marriage. I’m listening carefully. Be sure to check out her new book, The Passionate Mom, and also follow Susan on Twitter. There is this misconception that I have it made being married to Mr. Family First, Mark Merrill. […]
4 Ways to Overcome an Awkward Valentine’s Day

What makes Valentine’s Day uncomfortable for many of us? Is it the weird feeling of forced spontaneity? Are we afraid our plans won’t work out? Maybe your spouse won’t like what we’re doing. A lot of us fear the possibilities of an awkward Valentine’s Day. Here’s some insight on what makes Valentine’s Day awkward, and a few tips to help you overcome the possibility of a sticky Valentine’s Day
What Do the Super Bowl and Parenting Have in Common?

At first glance, the Super Bowl and parenting may not seem related. However, Tony Dungy makes a great connection between being a parent and preparing for the Super Bowl. Both involve setbacks and disappointment throughout the process, but the determination to stay committed to the ultimate goal is what leads to success. Here’s more […]
How to Take Your Marriage Beyond Ordinary

Today, Justin and Trisha Davis, are going to share with us about how to take your marriage beyond ordinary. I’m taking notes. You can follow Justin Davis and Trisha Davis on Twitter as well as purchase their book, Beyond Ordinary, from any major retailer. When Trisha and I separated in 2005 due to my affair, […]
How to Be More Than a “Good Enough” Father

What makes a father more than “good enough”? How can you be a father who is great? Dads, start by making a list of your priorities. What is the first item on your list? Is it your relationship with God? That is an amazing start. If the next item is your family, you are on […]
One of the Things I Love Most About Family First

One of the things I love the most about working here at Family First is the opportunity to impact thousands of families around the country with our monthly dads & kids and moms & kids school breakfasts called All Pro Dad’s Days and iMOM Mornings. We’re in about 1,200 schools nationwide, and each month […]
8 Mistakes I’ve Made in Marriage

I am so grateful for my 30 years of marriage to my wife, Susan. My love for her has grown immensely over the years. I’ve been faithful to her. I’m very attracted to her. But I can tell you that it’s not because of me. It’s only because of God’s loving hand of undeserved favor.
You see, I’m just one decision away from doing something really stupid that could really damage or perhaps even destroy our relationship. And I can tell you that I’ve made plenty of mistakes in my marriage. Here are 8.
13 Things I Hope for YOU in 2013

Another year is upon us—2013! As we jump into another New Year, I’m guessing that you’ve already put the pedal to the medal and are driving into January very quickly. I’m running close to full throttle, too. But before the days start speeding by, I want to briefly share with you a few things […]