Welcome, once again.  It is always a challenge to find articles to include that seem timely, appropriate and interesting. We think the mix is right … again, and think  you’ll agree!

For those still dreaming and planning a wedding, Kathy Muhlhan has some oh-so-practical advice. Does a big-spend wedding really equal a good foundation for a lifetime marriage? Not necessarily.

Phil McGilvray shares his usual sound counsel about managing finances. His methods really do work!  I (Jim) outline four essentials that are absolutely basic to that lifelong marriage happiness. They don’t seem to get talked about much, but are foundational.

Luke Scott and Linda Munoz-Scott have a baby girl! Linda shares some of the fun and frustrations of first-time parenting that you will identify with, and hopefully  be encouraged.

Dr Gordon Moyes poses the question whether divorce really does solve the problem of an unhappy marriage, and what real life people have to say who have changed their minds. And Alan Bailey suggests some ways to keep that first flush of love alive so divorce never needs to enter the vocabulary.

Rene describes her last snow and icy winter in eastern Washington state, USA. They have survived it, but plan to head back to Aus to live before too long. Which none of their family is complaining about!

A bit more wisdom from the ever-present internet winds up this issue, in the hopes that all mothers find recognition, affirmation and encouragement.

So … good reading!   

Jim and Grace Vine
Editors