We recently had lunch with some friends who shared with us a tradition the wife had grown up doing at the dinner table. It was really quite simple. Her dad would say, Tell me the good, and everyone at the table had to take turns telling him the good they saw in the others seated at the table. This wise father usually asked this question when he noticed the sour attitudes of his children, and it immediately changed the atmosphere from critical to grateful.
We thought this would be a good idea to try with your spouse. What if the next time you were feeling the weight of your circumstances you were to say, Tell me the good! Then take turns recounting the good things God has done or is doing in your life and marriage. How would this change your perspective? We think it’s worth a try. Let us know how it goes.
♥ Things To Do In Orlando ♥
CENTRAL
- Winter Park – Popcorn Flicks in the Park on Thursday, July 12th beginning at 8p. This month’s movie is The Great Muppet Caper.
- Altamonte Springs – Food Truck Wars return to Cranes Roost Park on Sunday, July 15th from 1p – 7p. Over 40 Food Trucks will compete for several awards. There will be lots of fun for the whole family, or make it a special day date with your spouse. Admission is FREE.
NORTH
- Sanford – Alive After Five on Thursday, July 12th from 5p – 8p. Cost is $7. Includes live music food and drinks to sample. This month’s theme is Sax in the City.
- Mt. Dora – Downtown Art Stroll on Friday, July 13th from 6p – 8p. FREE.
WEST
- Clermont – Lakeridge Winery – Summer Music Series on Saturday, July 14th from 1p – 4p. FREE.
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Don’t forget our Summer Lovin’ Photo Contest taking place now through Labor Day. For details click here.
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This is post #9 in the Ultimate Blog Challenge to post everyday in July.
The Romantic Vineyard 
This is a simple but incredible idea. Honestly, I don’t know if I have the humility to do this! But I want to find out. Thanks for the great idea!
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It actually came from Beth Gilland–this is a tradition from her family. Isn’t it great?
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This is a great idea. I think it can build us up as an individual, a couple and help me to see and appreciate the good God is doing in my life.
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Shawn,
Exactly. We can always use help to find the good. What a difference this would make in all our marriages and families.
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Excellent way to change a mood. Will have to adapt this for my home.
Thank you.
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Thanks for commenting Michelle.
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This is such a fabulous idea. My family used to share something good from our day every night at dinner. I think this would be a fantastic addition to that family tradition. This not only helps the person getting the compliments feel good, but strengthens the bond between both giver and receiver 🙂 You might like my video about doing something nice for others http://thehappinessexpert.net/make-someones-day-make-your-day-brighter-too-video-tip/
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Rachel,
You’re right about it strengthening the bond between the giver and the receiver. I’ll def. check out your video. Thanks for sharing.
Blessings,
Debi
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I love this idea Debi of “Tell Me the Good” – awesome, we’ll do it at dinner tonight!
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Oh good, Tor. I hope it goes well at your dinner table tonight. Enjoy that baby boy. 🙂
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A simple and nice idea. I’ll often ask my 2nd grade daughter what the best part of her day was. There are often plenty of things to whine and complain about so I like to try to focus on the positive. Your idea is another way to do that.
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Kimberly,
You’re right that this will work well with our children too. Great way to help them see the positives in their day and not just the parts they didn’t like.
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This is such a great practice to implement in our relationships and families. Thanks for sharing such a neat thing. Amazing what a difference a simple practice like this one can make.
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Steve,
We’re so glad you’ve found this tip helpful. We pray it will be a benefit to your family.
Blessings,
Debi
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Great idea! And thanks for the travel info.
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I like this idea. Maybe it will bring us out of our slump.
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Debbie,
I hope so too. We’ve been in those slumps and they aren’t fun. Being encouraging is a great start.
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You know, this is such a simple idea…. but such a wonderful idea too 🙂
And I chose the right evening to read this – it’s gonna be put to use this very night!
Blessings, Anne x
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So glad you read it today too. Have fun tonight around the dinner table.
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