Ask Alison December 2009

Christmas can be the best of times and the worst of times as Charles Dickens might say. For many the stresses, both emotional and financial put an unbearable strain on relationships. So with this in mind what can you do to ensure your relationship flourishes rather than flounders during the festive season?

Here are my top 5 tips:

1.Keep talking-even though time is short, keep those communication lines open!

2.Don’t feel under pressure to buy your spouses’ affection- show them by your words and deeds as well as with a thoughtful gift.

3.Remember to keep you relationship special. You and your marriage are just as important as your family, especially at Christmas. Your children will be thrilled to see Mum and Dad kissing under the mistletoe, although you might be told to go find a room!

4.Celebrate your love for each other with a night out, or in- whatever takes your fancy

5. Most of all make some time to simply hang out together, relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. You might even fall in love all over again!

My very best wishes for a truly magical Christmas!