Out-Love the Dog: A Mom’s Secret to a Happy Marriage

Before I got married, I talked to my mom about how her and my dad had stayed so happy for so long. Without even hesitating, she said, “Don’t let the family dog outdo you.” I didn’t know what that meant, but she told me her rule for herself was when my dad came home, she would never let the dog show more affection than her.

There would be time to talk about frustrations of the day or errands that needed to be run or household maintenance items, but the first few minutes of seeing your spouse in the evening were always about communicating that you love them, that you’re happy to see them, and that you are glad to be in their company.