Support

Recently, my husband shared my latest album, "Tospy Turvy," with a friend. This friend loved the CD and expressed a desire to help my music career. Of course, I thanked the friend for his support, but I also thanked my husband for sharing my music with him. My husband replied he was glad to do it. With Rueben, I feel anything is possible, thanks to his love, devotion, and support.

Small Gestures Go a Long Way

A few days ago, I was strolling down the street and came upon one of those Hallmark stores. I went in and asked if they have anything that says basically I love you so much and I am glad we got married. It was Hallmark. So of course they had a whole section for that! I read several, found the right one, added my personal touch, then left it with the day's mail. My husband was pleased and touched. Then yesterday, when he came to pick me up for our date (I learned from my happily married parents to never stop dating), he surprised me with a gorgeous bouquet of gigantic sunflowers (my favorite kind of flowers). Small gestures, a card, flowers, a love note, putting away the groceries, and other things that show you care can go a long way in ensuring your relationship is fulfilling and that it goes the distance.

Reach Out

I had a difficult morning this morning, and was tempted to suffer in silence. Instead, I reached out to my husband and he was there to help me through it. I appreciate that I am not alone. I am glad I was vulnerable enough to take the chance to reach out to him and I am, of course, glad that he responded with such love and support.

Share Great News Immediately

One of the marks of a great friendship, is also the mark of a strong marriage: when something wonderful happens, you want to share it with someone special. I experienced that today. Something really wonderful happened, and I let my husband know about it right away. He quickly wrote back to congratulate me. I appreciate so much that he is there to share my triumphs.

Go on Dates

This weekend, Rueben and I went out twice. We went to the movies on Friday, and we went out to dinner on Saturday. The movie was an extraordinary story about a married couple going through some issues, "The Kids Are Alright." And the dinner was at a romantic Italian restaurant on the Upper East Side. We had a magnificent time on both dates. I follow a great model in this regard. My parents have been in love for decades and still go on dates.

Be Attentive to Each Other's Needs

On Saturday night, I set the alarm for 6 a.m. because I wanted to prepare for an exam I am taking soon. The alarm went off, but I was in such a deep sleep, I did not notice. Rueben noticed but didn't wake me up. Later when I woke up, I told him if anything like that happens again, to definitely make an effort to rouse me out of my slumber. This morning, he woke me up before the alarm even sounded. I really appreciated that he was attentive to my needs. Also, I recently asked him to surprise me with a sexual advance when I least expected it. He really delivered on this need too. Being attentive to the needs of your partner can really help to strengthen your bond.

Make Time for Each Other

It is very important to, no matter how hectic your schedule, make time to spend with your wife or husband. This must be a priority so he or she knows how much you value him or her. This afternoon and evening, I had a lot to do, but took a break just to sit with Rueben while he watched a show about baseball and to have some salad together. These two simple gestures helped our relationship, as they let him know that I want and choose to spend time together.