I aspire for my kids to cultivate strong, loving marriages in their futures. I hope they will cherish their partners and appreciate their quirks, just as I do with my husband, Mark. While we certainly have our ups and downs, I believe we share one of the healthiest marriages I’ve encountered. We genuinely care for one another and consistently show affection. But beyond that, I want my kids to grasp how we built this bond.
Embrace Each Other’s Humanity
Being comfortable enough to share everything is crucial, even the less glamorous aspects of life, like farting. It’s important to be able to laugh about it rather than getting all uptight. After all, everyone farts—even your spouse!
Shower Together Occasionally
No, it’s not just about steamy romance; it’s about sharing a moment for uninterrupted conversation. Showering together teaches cooperation, whether it’s avoiding shampoo in each other’s eyes or figuring out how to navigate the space while completing our hygiene rituals. My kids will learn that teamwork is key in marriage.
Honest Fashion Feedback
When one partner asks, “Does this outfit look okay?” there should be honesty involved. It’s essential not to let your spouse leave the house looking like a fashion disaster. I tell Mark when his shirt is too tight, and he lets me know when my dress isn’t flattering. Honesty in these moments builds trust.
Kindly Deliver the Truth
When I ask my husband for his opinion on my appearance, I’m usually aware that I might not look my best. Therefore, he should offer his feedback gently. A little tact goes a long way—this is a valuable lesson for our kids.
Compliment Your Partner
It’s important to express attraction to your spouse. They don’t need to resemble a movie star, but affirming their beauty helps maintain their self-esteem. Reminding one another of their attractiveness fosters a deeper emotional connection.
Bathroom Boundaries
In a marriage, there should be no shame in discussing bodily functions. Being able to share these moments signifies a deep level of intimacy. While it’s not necessary to linger during a visit to the restroom, being comfortable with each other’s natural processes is essential.
Shared Responsibilities
Whether it’s cleaning up pet messes or managing the children’s chaos, it’s important to share tasks. No one person should be burdened with all the unpleasant chores. Love is demonstrated through actions, even when it involves scrubbing tough stains.
Equitable Parenting
Parenting isn’t a one-person job. Mark can handle bedtime routines while I manage bath time. Just because one parent excels at a task doesn’t mean the other is incapable of learning. We each contribute to our family’s well-being.
Playful Teasing
A little humor is vital in a relationship. Gentle ribbing keeps things light. I often poke fun at Mark’s obsession with sci-fi movies, and he jokes about my childhood stories. This playful banter strengthens our bond and reminds us to not take life too seriously.
I want my children to understand the essence of love: tolerance, honesty, and acceptance. Living with someone means embracing their imperfections, from their quirks to their messes. Love is found in the little things, and often those things can get a bit messy. This is the real lesson I want my kids to take from our marriage.
If you’re interested in more insights on parenting and relationships, consider checking out this blog post. For those considering expanding their family, you can also explore resources like IVF Babble for helpful pregnancy tips, or Make a Mom for information on home insemination kits.
Summary
In this article, Emily Carter shares her insights on the lessons she wishes to impart to her children about marriage, emphasizing honesty, shared responsibilities, and the importance of humor. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates the intricacies of a loving relationship and how these experiences shape a strong foundation for future marriages.