As in most relationships, we tend to expect the normal routine from our partner. If they do the laundry we expect that they will do it all the time, if they make dinner we are at the table with silverware in hand ready to eat. The only time we acknowledge our partner in this regard is when they don't help out in the normal way. Then our reaction is usually one of anger accompanied by yelling or unkind words. Are you one of those people that expect your partner to do things, how often do you thank them for the things they do to help out your relationship or family. I am sure that most of us can do a better job in the appreciation category. There are many ways to thank your mate for the things they do and they can be very simple. Things like do you wait on them to sit down before you start eating dinner, or saying, "Wow, the house looks great you must have spend hours cleaning it", or you can even just kiss them and say that is for the clean socks honey. Mix it up a little and go over the top from time to time to show them that you really do appreciate it. Do things like while eating a wonderful dinner they made slip them a note that says "This dinner is so good, I think I will make hot passionate love to you later tonight as a tip" or maybe after doing gardening or yard work you can get them in a shower and wash their hair for them. Showing appreciation is a lot form of art in relationships today and it is up to us to help bring it back to the forefront. Next time your partner takes care of the kids so you can nap, offer to give them a massage later in return, or if they have to miss work to take care of your sick child tell them to call up some friends and have a lunch date this weekend. Relationships are about helping each other out, not helping ourselves. Love is a powerful tool if used correctly, and appreciation in part of that power.
