Detroit Free Press: Living

A new survey out today by the U.S. Travel Association has found that couples who travel together have better relationships -- and better sex -- than those who don't.

Stress levels for Americans have taken a decidedly downward turn across the USA - except for young adults, whose stress is higher than the national norm, says a survey to be released Thursday.

Serves: 4-6 / Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus 6 to 8 hours bean soaking time) Total time: 6 1/2 hours (not all active time) 1 pound (2 cups) Maine yellow-eye beans, or substitute Great Northern or white navy beans 1/4 pound salt pork 1/2 cup dark, full-flavored molasses 2 tablespoons dark rum

Bananas Foster and bread pudding are two of the most popular desserts in New Orleans. So in honor of the over-the-top nature of Mardi Gras, we decided to take a more-is-better approach and combine them.

Serves: 6-8 / Preparation time: 15 minutes Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes Follow general instructions on cooking the black beans, reserving beans and broth to add to this soup.More | Talk | Read It Later | Share

Dear Amy: I am a young professional, and I am having a difficult time balancing my long-term romantic relationship and the close relationship I have with my family. Both relationships demand a lot of time, and planning a weekend gives me a headache because everyone feels entitled to my time!

In winter, there's nothing more comforting than a warm, meltingly tender bowl of beans -- whether as soup, side dish or cassoulet. The best starting point for those meals is dried beans, one of the most frugal items at the grocery store and healthiest forms of protein.

The expansion will allow roughly 470,000 more uninsured low-income Michiganders to be covered by Medicaid. Currently 1.9 million people received Medicaid benefits. But under the Affordable Care Act -- often referred to as Obamacare -- nearly half a million more people will become eligible for the assistance.

Great news for Free Press reader Deborah Richmond of Melvindale! She is the winner of a ruby pavé heart-shaped pendant on a sterling silver chain from Tapper's Diamonds & Fine Jewelry (to find a store: www.tappers.com) for telling us about her most memorable Valentine's Day.More | Talk | Read It Later | Share

Jewelry is often the best way to personalize an outfit, taking it from functional to fabulous! And if it's a one-of-a-kind piece, so much the better! With that in mind, here are three independent jewelry makers from metro Detroit.More | Talk | Read It Later | Share