Ignite the Flame - Sugar & Spice

Sugar & Spice (part 2)

You have probably have started spending at least a little time every day complaining about why he hasn’t done something else. Nothing quenches a flame faster than a nag. Continual nagging and taking each other for granted will siphon the lust factor out of your love faster than you might think. By making a conscious effort to focus on the little things he does that are really nice it will help you look for all the reasons why he’s great and enforce all the reasons why you love him to begin with. Does he take out the trash? Tell him thank you (instead of immediately reminding him that he’s on pooper scooper in the backyard too). Are you stressed out and there are dirty dishes in the sink? Instead of launching into the age old why can’t he be more helpful in the kitchen without being asked?” try giving him a compliment and asking for assistance, like “I really appreciate how helpful you are (insert anything here: “”in keeping the pets fed” , “mowing the yard””) it makes my life so much easier; I’m really stressed right now, would you mind taking care of the kitchen tonight so I can (catch up on work/spend time with the kids/take a relaxing bath/etc)? Thanks! And follow it up with an “I love you!””

Remember to spend at least one moment every day really appreciating your husband, even if it’s for something really small, like that he always makes sure you have a full tank of gas. He’ll feel loved by your continual efforts and love you more for it (and chances are he’ll feel like the luckiest man on earth that his wife doesn’t nag him every waking moment like his buddy’s wife does!) Not only will he feel special, but by focusing on the good things you will feel happier in your marriage too and may have a little more tolerance for the little things he does that you don’t like so much. Showing appreciation for each other will keep your love burning strong for the long haul. Remember, marriage is a marathon, not a sprint: we need to keep our energy for the parts of the course that are really difficult (and there will be times that really just are). Spend your time when you can shoring up your marriage, keeping it strong and happy by making each other feel loved and appreciated.

Photo courtesy of The Memory Journalists