Allow me to propose a love gift to your person in this month of love.
Inspired by the movie Marriage Story, which is largely about divorce and very depressing, I created a list of the things I love about my husband. I gave him the list a few years ago on his 40th birthday, and in turn, he wrote one for my 40th as well.
Let me be clear; we are not experts. Our marriage is not perfect. But taking time to reflect and appreciate the little things goes a long way.
I’d like to propose that you write such a list for your person, your partner, or your other half. It’s a lovely gift to both give and receive, and it’s an incredible reminder of why you’re together.
With his permission, I shared a few excerpts from my letter to him.
Reasons I love my husband:
- He’s a real adult; he wakes up when the alarm rings in the morning and mows the grass during his lunch.
- He’s a wonderful dad. He easily surpasses all dad expectations—not only teaching, guiding, and playing with our boys but truly having adventures and fun with them. When they get injured, he makes a funny physical move on the spot that will fix the bumped elbow or scraped knee. As they all hop and shake around, my boys are distracted by the fun and forget the pain.
- He’s a talented writer—clever and well-spoken. His writing is emotional, bringing a human empathetic element to his love of music and baseball.
- He smells good—which I’ve always found sexy.
- He dresses well, cares about collar stays and pants’ fit, and knows when to invest in a good pair of shoes.
- He’s handy and likes a project. He engages our boys in the process of living. Every chore, from changing batteries to washing the car, is enchanting because he has the patience to let them turn the screwdriver and point the hose.
- He’s steady and predictable in all the best ways. He shows up and wants to be a better person than he used to be.
- He’s not easily rattled. He’s calm whether driving in treacherous conditions or sitting by my side with one of the boys in the ER. He takes my anxious nature in stride—being the rational voice of reason.
- He’s intentionally creating traditions and memories with our boys—already planning their first trips to Wrigley Field. And he knew the importance of sharing the Cubs’ championship win in the same room as his dad, with his grandpa in mind.
- He convinces me to try new things and makes me want to be bolder and braver while all my instincts drive the opposite way.
- He’s a great dancer—free and fun. He makes me wish I was uninhibited on the dance floor.
- He’s diplomatic and kind—easily befriending coworkers and navigating potential conflicts.
- He’s a wonderful parenting partner. He’s my equal in every way and knows all the tricks, maneuvers, and specifics that keep the ship afloat.
I’d be lost without him. He’s my best friend, and he just keeps getting better with age.
Hopefully, this has inspired you to consider writing your own love note. We all want to feel seen and appreciated, recognized for how we shine in parenthood and reminded of just how much we are loved. Happy love month!