Back in our younger days, before texting and children and time that just won’t stand still, my husband often left little notes for me tucked into unusual places. He has always traveled frequently for work, and the tiny little love notes always served as a reminder that travel is temporary, but love is forever.
Technology and kids and things that always need doing have changed us. For the better, I would say.
Where airport reunions used to consist of me holding his favorite coffee beverage, they now consist of kids jumping up and down holding handmade signs. I step back and let them have it. Because I can wait.
Because I understand the power of two.
Stolen hugs
These days we are four, no more and no less. And we wouldn’t want it any other way.
Our home is full of non-stop chatter. Stories need to be told right this minute. Games need to be played. Books need to be read.
And yet, we find our moments to steal a hug or two. Because staying connected is important, and hugs make the world a better place.
Take back the night
People say that family dinner is essential. Family dinner makes for happy families that maintain close relationships. We say family breakfast has the same effect. Over syrup-soaked waffles, bacon cooked to perfection, and colorful fruit salads, we have our extended family meals.
But the night? That’s for two. We put the kids to bed, pour a glass of red, and cook a favorite meal. Together. In the quiet house we find our time to just be us.
Digital love notes
The notes have changed form over the years, but I always manage to find them at exactly the right moment.
A completed thought that hung in the air just a little too long comes through in a text just when I need it.
An exclamation of pride contained in email because he didn’t want to wake me gets the day off to the perfect start.
A card attached to the flowers, ordered from afar, makes the distance feel just a little bit smaller.
What do you do to keep your marriage strong when the demands of parenting and work feel overwhelming?
