It's official - Marriage is good for you. The ONS (office of national statistics) has published results of a 'comprehensive study' that proves married couples live longer, are healthier, and more likely to enjoy home care in old age.

I guess that final bit means your kids look after you - but according to the survey the children who live with married parents are also healthier, and stay in full time education longer whatever their economic background.

Don't get me wrong - I recognise as much as anyone else that divorce and widowhood happen and I'm not judging anyone's single or co-habiting parenting. I'm just telling you what the report said.

But I guess it makes sense that those of us who feel secure in committed relationships are more likely to be relaxed and optimistic, and more able to simply be themselves. When we 'go with the grain of who we are' we'll always be happiest.

With all this evidence it does seem strange that the number of co-habiting couples rose by 65% in the last decade while the number of married couples fell by 4%. But the good news is that if you're reading this blog you are probably considering tyeing the knot.

So 'go for it' and be happier and healthier. And if you get married in church that's even better as you get prayers and blessings thrown in. And that must surely be a bonus.
Here's wishing you long life and happiness, and every possible blessing
jan