As I approach my 17th wedding anniversary with my husband, I reflect on the journey we’ve taken together over the last 21 years. When we first met, it felt like magic, and I instinctively knew he was the one. Back in those early days, a strong marriage seemed synonymous with romance and undisturbed bliss, devoid of arguments about finances. Now, after years of shared responsibilities, two kids, and a family dog, my understanding of a strong marriage has evolved significantly. It’s less about candlelit dinners and more about teamwork in mundane tasks, parenting, and the occasional indulgence like watching reality TV without judgment.
Despite the challenges that come with married life, our bond has only grown stronger. Going through sleepless nights together, especially when dealing with a sick child, has a unique way of solidifying a relationship. Our criteria for measuring marital success have shifted, and we no longer focus solely on date nights or intimacy. Here are 25 authentic signs that indicate your marriage is thriving—none of which include daily bouquets of flowers.
- You can’t binge-watch your favorite series without each other, and you feel bad if you do.
- He surprises you with coffee after morning drop-offs and remembers your preferred sweetness.
- You enjoy the warmth of his feet against yours while you both sleep.
- He understands your need for a break and doesn’t mind when you hand him the toddler as you step out.
- Financial decisions are no longer a topic requiring permission from each other.
- You’ve accepted that he will never load the dishwasher.
- He’s come to terms with your refusal to take out the trash or handle yard work.
- He’s ditched the idea of buying you fancy lingerie in favor of comfy pajamas.
- Watching him fold laundry somehow ignites a spark in you.
- When he says, “Mom already said no,” you know he’s on your side in parenting decisions.
- He’s seen you at your most vulnerable and still finds you attractive.
- He lovingly traces the marks of motherhood on your body and sees the woman he fell for.
- You’ve shared many less-than-pleasant moments but your love remains intact.
- He never comments on your shoe purchases while you turn a blind eye to his car parts.
- You both agree that ’80s music reigns supreme.
- He instinctively knows your drink order while you’re away.
- He insists on dancing to your wedding song whenever it plays at events.
- He’s the only person you’ll admit when you’re wrong, and he keeps those secrets safe.
- He supports your whimsical crush on celebrities without a hint of jealousy.
- You both offer each other honest feedback about looks, like when his pants make him look older.
- You stood by him through his fitness trends, and the aftermath that followed.
- A single glance across a crowded room can communicate, “Let’s escape this party.”
- After enduring your child’s performances, you both agree on their musical talents.
- Date nights now consist of quick drinks after running errands or attending school meetings, and you cherish those moments.
- You both recognize there’s no one else who would tolerate your quirks quite like each other.
Marriage can be challenging, especially with the daily grind of family responsibilities. Yet, beneath the surface, there are undeniable signs that the love and commitment you share are unwavering. If you examine your relationship closely enough, you might just find that the blue-eyed partner sitting across from you at dinner would choose this life all over again—except perhaps for those 2 a.m. clean-ups.
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Summary
A strong marriage is defined by shared experiences, mutual respect, and a deep bond that withstands the test of time. It’s less about grand romantic gestures and more about the everyday moments that reinforce connection and understanding.