As a wedding planner and ordained minister, and a happily married woman, I constantly read and think about what keeps a marriage happy and healthy. Here are some of the best tips I know for you:
1. Don't underestimate the importance of sex. Don't even think that you always have to be in the mood for sex to have it. Sometimes, establishing that physical bond is more important than sleep, or that great new book, movie, video game, or even baby! How often couples need to have sex is an individual as the couple, but here's a good rule: Barring illness or absence, never go more than two weeks without having sex together. The closeness and intimacy you create together goes far beyond the bedroom.
2. Never go a day without saying "I love you." Several times a day is better. Your partner needs to hear it, and you need to say it. Never assume,"Well, he knows," or "My actions speak louder than words." Maybe, maybe not. But the words are powerful. Say them.
3. Some experts say that couples need to touch in some way at least 5 minutes a day. Five minutes a day! I think couples need to exchange loving touches at least 15 or 20 minutes a day minimum. Just holding hands walking to a store or restaurant, a quick hug or pat on the back walking by, or a peck on the cheek at an unexpected moment conveys a lot of love and can cover a lot of small misdeeds!
4. Make time to do things together. No matter how busy you are, go out to eat or to a movie, or do some other activity you enjoy at least once a week, just the two of you. This gives you good memories to think about, shakes up your routine so you don't get in a rut, and gives you something new to talk about besides the bills and the kids if you have them.
Following these four rules will give you a good beginning to creating the kind of marriage that will be satisfying and happy throughout your life. They are only a start, but if both of you keep thinking and reading and learning, your marriage will just grow better and better.
Rhetta Akamatsu is a wedding planner, seminar teacher, and ordained wedding officiant in Marietta, GA. She is the owner of Rose and Star Wedding Planning, and she and her husband are currently celebrating 10 years together.
You can visit Rose and Star Wedding Planning at http://www.roseandstar.com for information and more great articles and features.