Describe an experience that was particularly special for you this summer?

The following dates are suggestions if you prefer to maintain the weekly cadence. Otherwise, feel free to ponder these questions while on vacation with your loved one.

When you were growing up, how was anger expressed in your family? Was your family hot or cold when it came to anger? Or, neither? What was set in your attitude and expression of anger? How does it affect you today? (Warning: This conversation will test how safe is your relationship. No judging, no blaming, no fixing! Set your listening dial on Curiosity, Understanding and Compassion. Talk like friends.)

What if a relative died and left you $100,000? How would you spend it?

Even though you may be pretty perfect and you have managed to accept yourself as you are, if you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

(Try to avoid any change that would satisfy the expectations of others or of culture. Make it something that would satisfy you.)

Find your irritability score.

Take a minute to prepare for this conversation by writing down on a piece of paper or note card 3 things you admire about your

partner. If you have more, feel free to add them. When you both are done, share your list.

Couples often find it hard to talk about personal, spiritual beliefs. Regardless of your faith experience, you probably have some knowledge about the life of Jesus. Do you have a favorite story from his life? Or something he said or taught that means a lot to you? If so, what might it be and why is it meaningful?

What stresses are knocking on your door? Where might you need grace from yourself or each other to face them?

Where do you find meaning in your life, or from what do you find meaning?

What book have you enjoyed so much or has been so meaningful that you have read it more than once? What was special about it? If you have not read (or listened) to a book more than once, is there one you might read again?

Describe someone you know who inspires you when you are around them, or when you talk with them. What about them inspires you? Would you ever tell them? Would it be good to see them more often?

On a scale from 1-10, how would you score the playfulness, sense of humor and light-heartedness of your family when you were a child? What were any circumstances that affected these things? How would you score your own playfulness now?

Describe a time in your life when you had to be brave, when you had the courage to do something difficult or take a risk? Is there an area or situation in your life that might need courage now? If so, what is it?

What compliment has someone given you recently that was encouraging to you?

If you could posses absolute talent and genius in one of the arts, which would you choose? Painting, sculpture, writing theater, cinema, dance, music (voice, instrument, songwriting, conducting), or some other. Why?

What activities or situations help you relax?

Who was your favorite relative, outside your immediate family when you were a child (age 5-10)? Why?