A Blissful Marriage Makes a Happy Mom

A couple weeks ago, I posted about how quality time with my family helps me find the moments of bliss I need. In my life it’s not only my children that bring me bliss, but also my husband. I am blessed enough to have a team atmosphere in my home, and without my husband’s support and encouragement raising my children would be so much harder. Next to raising children, being a wife is one of the hardest jobs women have in life. Marriage is hard work, and because our lives as moms are so overwhelming and demanding at times, our marriages can suffer for it. It’s a difficult situation, because spending time and energy on your children is not a bad thing, but it can leave your husband feeling a little neglected at times. It’s a careful balance, but I know that maintaining my relationship with my husband makes me a better person, and a better mom.

There are a few things my husband and I make a point to do that help keep our marriage strong, small things we make a priority because we know they are important.

We date. As we get older, we change as people, maturing and learning from our experiences. Marriages change too, and it’s important to always strive to learn more about your spouse. My husband and I do this by dating. It’s not always something elaborate, sometimes it’s a simple, inexpensive activity or moment that just gives us a chance to relax with one another separate from the children. Some moms find it hard to leave their children, hard to give themselves permission to sneak off with their husbands and have fun, but it’s vital to your marriage! The Dating Divas is a great site that has tons of super creative date night ideas. Many are inexpensive and don’t take much time. Dating your husband gives you both a chance to rekindle your spark midst the busy life of parenting.

We spoil. My husband is famous for spoiling me rotten, and to be honest, I wish I was as thoughtful and creative as he is. I’m usually worn out from a day with the kids, lucky if I was able to snag a shower, and just praying for a few minutes to myself so I can go to the bathroom in peace. But even on those busy days, I make it a point to show him that I thought of him while he was away at work. I might whip up a batch of sweet tea before he comes home (his favorite), jot him a quick love note and hide it in his dresser drawer, or I might grab his favorite candy bar while I’m out running errands. Whatever I do, it’s usually simple and quick, but it’s always super special to him. Here’s a fun way to learn what his favorite things are, and a great idea for getting the conversation going on date nights!

We keep learning. I know the last thing any of us want to do is go back to school, but when it comes to marriage, you have to! I own several books on marriage, and my husband and I make a point to always learn about new ways to make our marriage stronger. Tricia has mentioned the book The Five Love Languages in her posts a couple times, and it is also one of my favorites! Understanding your husband’s needs and wants is so much easier when you have good books on marriage to help you unlock those complicated emotions and issues. Like I said before, it’s not easy, but making it work has such great rewards for you and your children. Part of making it work is always striving to be your best, and learning along the way. My marriage is far from perfect, but learning and growing together has made us a pretty good team!

These are just a few things to keep in mind, and by no means the secret to a happy marriage. But it’s a start to strengthening your relationship with your husband, which in turn strengthens your family!