The Whole You Issue 4, December 2016 | Page 22

Dear Guilty, One of the best predictors of secure, healthy children who grow into independent, successful adults is a strong marriage. When children feel safe in their home environment, you have given them the most stable foundation possible. Making your husband a priority is healthy for your family. Go out together, laugh, have fun and remember why you picked each other in the first place. Abolish guilt. Kids need to learn that they are safe with other people for a few hours and your marriage needs time and space to breathe outside of the regular family demands. Book regular dates and know that you are investing in your primary relationship, which will hopefully still be going strong long after the kids have moved out of your house. Love, Julianne Send your questions on life’s tricky areas to [email protected] with “Julianne’s Joy” in the subject line. Check this space each month to see if Julianne is sending some support and encouragement your way! Julianne’s Joy reserves the right to edit submissions for length and clarity. Julianne Harvey is an author, speaker and nurturer. She has a certificate in Counselling Skills and finds joy in authentic, vulnerable and caring connection with others. Read her weekly blog on self-care and the power of nurture at julianneharvey.com.