secret ingredient

My bro Paul is marrying his high school sweetheart Kelsi in August. And since Dan is not a blogger, I would like to share on his behalf, with all marrying/married fellows, Dan's top secret tactic for marital bliss that he's been employing for the eight years of our marriage.

...Ready?....

ALWAYS APOLOGIZE FIRST.

Now hear me out. It doesn't make you a door mat - it works! and here's why:

1. IT ENDS THE FIGHT.
Who can argue with "I'm sorry"? No one. and suddenly you're on the same side.

2. HE'S LETTING ME "WIN".
Women's engines run on emotions. Once I've killed the motor, and am able to take a deep breath, I find myself apologizing right back. After all, it does take two to fight.

3. IT INTRODUCES PERSPECTIVE.
Now that we've put down our weapons {Yes, I once literally threw a pin cushion at Dan.} we can talk about it like grown ups, and it's never as big a deal as it seemed 5 minutes ago. We end up mutually making resolutions to try better.

4. MR. WRONG IS ALWAYS MR. RIGHT!
Every time he apologizes first, I walk away thinking "That Dan is a keeper. I'm so lucky! NO husband is better than mine!" and your lady will be thinking the same thing.
*side note girls: if you're thinking those things, tell him!*

Give it a try guys. It might work for you too!

JUDE ....

...is growing up too fast.

...got his first tooth about a week ago.

...hardly ever cries.

...is my first baby to refuse bottles and binkies.

...forgets I'm there sometimes when he's nursing. He'll be eating for a while then look up at me in surprise as if to say "how long have you been here watching me?"

...is extremely ticklish.

...often falls prey to biting from his parents and other relatives.

...wonders if his mom will ever get his birth announcements out. don't worry judey, I'm working on it!