Let’s be real: Marriage is one of the most beautiful and challenging relationships you’ll ever have. It’s built on love, patience, and compromise. But here’s the thing—are you giving so much in your marriage that you’re starting to lose yourself?

When I asked couples to share just a few answers to some simple questions about romance, I wasn’t looking for perfection. I wanted real. Because real love? That’s where the magic lives. So today, let me guide you through a few ways you can bring that spark back—or keep it glowing strong.

Can you believe how fast the year has flown by? Holiday decorations are on the shelves and the pumpkins haven’t even been carved yet… the festive pressure builds for months. Honestly? It can be exhausting. And when we’re exhausted, guess who we tend to disconnect from first? Our partners.

Did you know couples who actively express gratitude for each other are significantly happier? It’s not just fluff—it’s science. When I studied Positive Psychology at FAU, I learned that gratitude isn’t just a nice idea; it’s one of the core pillars of a fulfilling life and a thriving marriage.

When we think about improving our lives, the first things that come to mind are often the usual suspects: lose weight, save money, clean out the garage. Sure, those resolutions sound great. And yes, being healthier, having savings, or an organized space can make life easier. But will they truly fill your soul?

Do you remember your first date? I sure do. For me and my husband, Brian, our first date was a blind date arranged by a friend. I rushed from work, dressed up in a little black dress, walked into the restaurant at 7:05 (it’s okay…I was fashionably late) and… no Brian. I waited. I called my mom (yes, I did). Then he arrived, like someone running through the door determined to win me over. He apologized, he pulled himself together, and the evening turned into laughter, dancing,

Hi, I’m Michelle Hays – welcome to Monarch for Love! As we prepare for the holidays, I can’t help but think back to the magical anticipation I felt as a child waiting for Christmas. I was the kid who couldn’t sleep, straining to hear Santa’s sleigh on the roof. That kind of childlike wonder is something we all once knew deeply. But somewhere along the way, adulthood crept in. Our excitement faded, replaced with to-do lists, shopping stress, and endless wrapping paper. We forg

So many of us are chasing what we desire most: to love and be loved. And yet, we keep repeating the same painful patterns, convinced that if we just find the “right” person, things will magically work out.