20 Lessons from 20 Years of Marriage

On June 9th, David and I celebrated our 20th Anniversary. For my monthly list, I reflected on 20 things I’ve learned over the years.

A steady dose of humor always helps
Don’t fight when you drink. Save it for the next morning.
Appreciation grows with time
If you want something, ask for it- though we want and wish our significant others to mind read, they can’t.
Appreciate your spouse for who they are – not for who they aren’t
Buy your wife cards…and flowers…and presents…and jewelry (duh!)
Love your spouse, but learn to create your own happiness as well
The best investment is family time
Make sure to escape when needed
Double sinks are key
Double toilets would be even better
Do not take the first or last bite from your spouses plate without asking.
It’s ok to say sorry
When they’re hot, we’re cold. When they’re cold, we’re hot
“I’m cold” is code for please put your arm around me, please give me your jacket and/or sweater.
Do not critique your wife’s cooking. We all get A’s for effort. Even if it’s the same menu each week. K?
Birthdays, Mother’s Day and Anniversaries are religious holidays. Observe rightfully so.
Say I love you and mean it.
Sometimes it’s the little things, like getting up at night to get your spouse water or a midnight snack – that goes a long way.
Be kind, say thank you and appreciate each other (except for that time of the month – out of our control)