I have to be extremely honest. I didn't know what to expect when bringing together a blended family. Blending different factions (especially when there are so many differences between the family members) is no easy feat. As husband and wife, you are each raised differently; as well, you have raised your children differently. Expectations around things like homework and … [Read more...]
Wives: 5 Ways to Get Holiday Help from Your Husband
I am big on asking my husband for help. I’m not bragging because I had to learn this lesson the hard way. I would get mad and frustrated because I felt like this dude would sit and watch me struggle to keep up with things. I remember thinking, “is he blind?” He wasn’t. He just wasn’t look at things from my perspective. What was causing me stress wasn’t even on his … [Read more...]
The Day I Found a Chia Mat in My Daughter’s Bathroom
My 11 year old daughter and I had a standoff in her bathroom this weekend. She “claimed” she was finished with her chores, so I went into her bedroom and bathroom to inspect her work. Most weeks, I give her the benefit of the doubt and I don't do an inspection. But it was about time for an inspection, as she has been slacking when comes to her chores lately. When I went into … [Read more...]
Why Our Son’s Future Wife Will Want to Thank Us
My husband cooks, cleans, and folds laundry. He is also pretty handy with tools, he mows the lawn, and he takes care of all those annoying issues that can come up around the house. Overall, he’s a great guy. He takes good care of us, and for that I am grateful. Now, my husband isn’t like this by accident. If you’ve met his mom, you’d understand. I am certain that … [Read more...]
Do You Give Your Spouse Chores?
My husband and I try to run our house like a well oiled machine. We believe that all of our children (regardless of age) have a part in maintaining the house. And if they do their part, then everyone's life is much easier. To help make everyone accountable, we've implemented a chore checklist for everyone from the smallest child (two years old) to the oldest child (twelve … [Read more...]
I Hired Help and I Don't Feel Guilty
Every year my husband and I host what we call our "Barbecue Extravaganza" where we invite our family and our closest, dearest friends. We both look forward to entertaining and celebrating the end of summer with the people we cherish. As you can imagine there is quite a bit of planning that goes into this event. We have to plan the menu, the activities and prepare our home for … [Read more...]
Sharing Responsibilities
BMWK received this reader comment last week: Marriage is tough! My husband wants an old fashioned wife that does everything and all he has to do work, keep up with ESPN and kiss the children good night. Let's not forget that I work too, longer hours. My philosophy is that each parent needs to share responsibilities and at the end of the day we'll appreciate each other. This … [Read more...]