Marriage Advice on Weight Gain, In-Laws, and Male Bonding

On Weight Gain

My wife has packed on the pounds and I just don't feel attracted to her anymore. I work out at the gym to stay in shape for her. I hold up my end of the bargain -- why won't she?

She says: I understand your disappointment that your wife's not the same size as she was on your wedding day. (P.S. How's that hairline of yours doing?) But if there's any chance of getting your wife to shape up, it's not going to happen if you attack her. Instead, whip up a few (low-fat) dinners for two and offer to work out together. If you don't feel like making passionate love, hold her hand. With us wife-types, kindness will get you far, cruelty will get you nowhere.

He says: Remember that you married your wife for richer or poorer, in fitness and in fatness, till death do you part. Something has gone wrong if your wife has swapped orgasms for Oreos. Shutting her off from lovemaking will only further deflate her self-esteem and cause her to reach for the Haagen-Dazs. Instead, take romantic walks, suggest joining the same health club, and ask for a couples' discount. Work up a sweat together and the rest will follow.