Letters From Listeners

Dearest Dr. Laura:

Here are some honest replies from a real man who is lucky to have a beautiful and smart woman. I'm 48, been married for 13 years, and we have an 11-year-old son.

1. Seriously ask yourself every morning:, "What will I do today to make her appreciate marrying ME?" 


2. Housekeeping and tidying up. I've almost always had housekeepers since I finished grad school. If you can afford one, hire one. She said the other day how much she appreciates having a housekeeper, and I'm certain this has something to do with the random naughty surprises that I receive.


3. Clean up and help around the house. Our agreement for the longest time is that she cooks and I clean up. Works for me. On most mornings since I'm up earlier, I'll start a pot of coffee, empty the dishwater, tidy up the kitchen and any other areas that have things lying around. 


4. Cook a meal sometimes or do something that she usually does. Sometimes I stop by the grocery store to pick up some good pieces of fish and a bottle of wine. Then our son and I prepare a meal. It's the thought that counts, even though the meal isn't as delectable as hers.


5. Write little notes and do little things for her. I usually leave handwritten notes for her to see when she gets up. Sometimes I'll leave a note several pages ahead in the pages of whatever she's reading. 


6. Appreciate your woman wanting to keep herself looking good and don't complain about the outrageous bills. My salon haircuts are still no more than $30, but it's nothing in comparison to what women pay for cuts and color. Appreciate the beauty and budget it in every month or so. I get lucky on most salon days. 


7. Keep her vehicle clean and running well. As a Southern gentleman, it's my duty to keep her vehicle in tip-top shape, her cell phone working and pay the bill. 


8. Be open and honest. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want or say what you like. 


9. Keep yourself healthy, clean, and in shape. Ask yourself why she would want to sleep with me. 


10. Make a budget together. It prevents financial stress! 


11. Consider a short cruise. You don't have to be big spenders to enjoy the atmosphere and have fun. The atmosphere alone is usually enough. 


12. Send flowers to her mother on your wife's birthday. Thanking her for bringing your wife into this world. 

Do you have any tips for other married men? Send an email! Sign up for the FREE Dr. Laura Family and send an email here.