Aspiring comedians Abbi, 25, and Luke, 27, have been dating for three years. Both claim they are more than ready for marriage, but Abbi's family isn't so enthusiastic about their trip down the aisle. Is her family the real problem, or is there more here than meets the eye? myLifetime.com's relationship expert, Pat Love, EdD, asked the couple questions to get to the "heart" of their relationship. See what they had to say, and how their relationship changed after a dose of Dr. Love's advice.

If you could change your relationship in any way, what would it look like?


Abbi: I wish my family would be more open to making Luke a part of the family. My mom raised my sister and me by herself, and I think she's afraid of losing me. My sister is older, so she feels pressured if I get married first.

Luke: We would be married or at least engaged by now.

What is the toughest part about dealing with you as a partner?


Abbi: I am moody, sensitive and I think everything is half-empty.

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Luke: I'm stubborn. Sometimes Abbi becomes secondary to my preparation for things; I'm short when I'm not in the mood to play around, especially when I'm gearing up for a performance. I'm not mean; I don't yell. Just short.

What is the one habit you have that if you gave it up, would greatly improve your relationship?


Abbi: I would like to be patient instead of impatient. For example, I'm impatient with his weight-loss progress. I'd like to set a good example instead of telling him what to do. Also, I always overplan — I have no free time at all.

Luke: I'm a procrastinator; even in regard to activities with Abbi, I put them off. I'd like to have a more action-oriented approach to life in general.

At this time in your relationship, when do you feel the closest and most connected to your partner?


Abbi: When we're alone and talking privately. Or when we're sitting together in church and holding hands.

Luke: When there are moments of harmony — spiritual, church-related, deep conversation, serving the community. There is nothing that compares to feeling completely in tune.

How do you stop yourself from getting closer to your partner?


Abbi: I can shut Luke out pretty easily by arguing. If my argument's not working, I kick him out of my house or leave wherever we are. I walk away from an argument rather than addressing the problem.

Luke: If we're arguing I'll just stop; I'm done. It's not healthy. I shut off.

Check out Dr. Love's Relationship Advice. Maybe it will work for you too!