“Big Decisions” is one of the most important chapters in our new book, Marrying Later in Life. This segment of our book will set the tone and the future for a successful marriage. How to resolve differences of opinion, ways of living, thinking and communicating are all addressed in humorous and practical ways. Are you both flexible in your thinking or does one of you insist that an “A” always “A.”That a problem can only be handled in one way.
Meaning there is no other alternative to a decision.
This brings us to…”Pet Peeves!”
Are you both animal lovers, or does one of you dislike the thought of wet licks on your hands or feet as you walk through the door; not to mention having an animal sleep with you! I suppose you can always defer to a tank full of fish or a rambunctious hamster spinning around in his cage. Somehow they don’t seem like pets you want to cuddle with!
People who love animals want one that responds to them. One who greets you at the door with unconditional love no matter what you did. They immediately brighten your day. Animals add sparkle to your life in a way little children or grandchildren do.
Did you know that dogs evolved from wild wolves? They assimilated and bonded to humans because both parties release the hormone, oxytoxin, which is also found in the connection between mother’s and babies. Dogs are loyal, caring and will add comfort to your life through the years. Here is an amazing story from a”marrying later in life” couple.
Friends of ours lost their dog, Max, a couple of years ago. Max was really Les’s dog and Bobbe tolerated him as he came with Les when they were married. She was a bit relieved to be animal free so they would be able to travel more without worrying about Max. However, Les missed Max very much, and longed for that companionship. One day when Bobbe was out, Les got an unexpected call from a yellow lab breeder who just had a litter. He raced over and proudly picked out the prize of the litter, intending this time to show the dog.
Bobbe and Les had never talked about another dog, but Les knew he was making an important decision by himself, and felt guilty about coming home to share the news. Needless to say, it did not go over well.
Three days later, Les had emergency open heart surgery, so the breeder kept the dog 4 weeks until Les was out of the hospital. As Les healed, the dog was continually at his side, encouraging his recovery.
Unnamed at this point except for his given “professional lineage name.” he got his paw caught in the whelping pen and a toe had to be amputated. After surgery and going back home with a sling around his paw, our friends aptly named him “Trio!”
Through all of this and Les’s speedy recovery because of Trio, Bobbe grew to love him more than she thought. He was not only named “Trio,” but they became the family of Trio!
Hugs,
Elizabeth & Marsha
www.marryinglaterinlife.com
