A HAPPY FAMILY

It started forty-two years ago when I married my husband. I wanted to be the best wife a man could ever want and later when I had children I wanted to be the greatest mother. Everyday I made an effort to make them feel happy and loved.

Women are the foundation of their family. Besides being a wife and mother, she is also a negotiator, accountant juggling bills, chef, doctor, chauffeur, psychologist . . .the list goes on and on. The family looks to her for support, comfort, advise and love.

This is my foolproof recipe for a happy family.

1 Always treat family as if they were company and make them feel special.

2 Always show by example. Children mimic what they learn from life.

3 Always treat family (and others) the way you would want to be treated.

4 Show respect for your children and husband.

5 Don't have an attitude. Let your man know he's boss, only you know who's holding the reins. (A smart woman can always get her way, if she does it with finesse.)

6 Don't argue over small things. If your husband says the rain goes up, agree with him, only you know better.

7 If you feel frustrated with your husband, work out your frustrations shoveling snow, or vacuuming, do something physical.

8 Involve yourself in some of your husband's activities. You'd be surprised how much enjoyed yourself.

9 If your husband likes to see you wear something sexy, wear it. When the children aren't around, surprise him when he comes home, seeing you do your house work wearing a sexy black slip or negligee. You'd be surprised at the rewards.

10 Always put your family first. There is nothing else in the world that matters more than your family.

11. Each day remind your husband and children how much you love them. Don't be shy with the hugs and kisses.

A family is like a garden. We have to nourish it, water it, and keep it free from weeds and bugs. Everyday we have to visit the garden, watch over it, enjoy the pleasure it gives us. If we address these needs, our garden will bloom, bright, healthy and strong forever.

Learn more about this author, Petra Newman.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Recipe for a happy family life?
We want to hear your view. Write now!