Having been married for nearly 17 years and knowing my partner, Jake, for over two decades, I’ve come to understand that a solid marriage is not just about romantic gestures or a lack of arguments. While the early days were filled with passion and carefree moments, the definition of a strong partnership has evolved into something much deeper.
Now, our relationship is defined by shared responsibilities, teamwork in parenting, and a mutual understanding of each other’s quirks. Cleaning up after a sick child at 2 a.m. can certainly bond a couple! Although we may not measure our happiness by the frequency of date nights or romantic escapades anymore, there are clear signs that indicate our marriage is built to last. Here are 25 signs that your marriage is thriving, and none of them involve daily flower deliveries.
- You can’t imagine binge-watching your favorite series without your spouse and feel guilty if you do it alone.
- He surprises you with your morning coffee after the early school run, remembering just how you like it.
- You enjoy the warmth of his feet next to yours in bed.
- He doesn’t bat an eye when you hand him the toddler as he walks in from work, and you casually mention you’re stepping out.
- You’ve both moved past asking for permission to spend money.
- You’ve accepted that he’ll never load the dishwasher.
- He’s realized you’re not taking out the trash or mowing the lawn anytime soon.
- He no longer buys you fancy lingerie, knowing that comfy flannel pajamas are your true love language.
- Watching him fold laundry is an unexpected turn-on.
- When he says, “Mom already said no,” you recognize he’s on your side in the parenting battles.
- He’s seen you at your most vulnerable and still finds you attractive.
- When he lovingly touches the marks from childbirth on your body, he still sees the woman he fell for.
- You’ve endured his less-than-pleasant odors but are still intimate with him.
- He stays quiet when you splurge on shoes, and you ignore his new car parts.
- You both still claim the ‘80s as the best decade for music.
- He instinctively knows your drink order when you step away.
- He insists on dancing to your wedding song at every wedding you attend.
- He’s the only person you can admit you were wrong to, and he keeps it a secret.
- He respects your playful threats about running off with your celebrity crush.
- He’s honest about your hairstyle, just as you’re candid about his fashion choices.
- You supported him through his intense workout phases, even when he regained the weight.
- A simple glance across a room can convey your shared thoughts on how dull the event is.
- Having survived school performances together, you both agree your child’s oboe skills need work.
- Date nights have transformed into quick drinks during errands, and you cherish those moments.
- You both understand there’s no one else who will tolerate each other’s quirks quite like you do.
Marriage can be challenging, especially amidst the daily grind of parenting and work. Yet, if you look closely, you’ll find that the love and commitment shared are still present. The blue eyes across the table remind you of the journey you’ve taken together—even if it includes late-night cleanups. If you’re looking for more insights about family planning, check out this excellent resource on artificial insemination, or visit Make a Mom for expert advice on your fertility journey. Embrace your unique path and perhaps explore additional insights on home insemination for your family planning needs.
Summary:
This article explores the various signs of a strong marriage, emphasizing the evolution of love and partnership over time. From shared responsibilities to understanding each other’s quirks, these indicators highlight the resilience of a long-lasting relationship.