In this episode we continue the conversation with Leonard and Roberta Scholten, and gain more insights from 61 years of marriage.
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Link to Part 1-
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/celebrate-marriagecast/id1705965632?i=1000647220299
Youtube: https://youtu.be/a4q6Rj5vDRc
Ramblings from a Seasoned Couple
By Leonard & Roberta Scholten
Talk things over – even the hard stuff. Pick a good time and a good place for a discussion.
Greet each other with a “Good Morning” the first time you see each other every day – even better, “Good Morning” and a kiss and a hug.
Babies need “skin time.” So do you. We’re not talking sex here. Sit together – hold hands – touch each other as you pass.
Have more than work in your life. Make plans to do things as a family, but also as a couple.
Also – do things separately. The spouse might have to take things over for a while, while you are having a night out with friends or out doing something that you enjoy.
Develop “couple” friendships. People you enjoy being with & that have the same interests & beliefs as you do.
Be open about money. Decide how you are going to divide your incomes (who is paying for what) and stick to your budget. Have the bank transfer a set amount into a savings account to help with emergencies and for something that you are saving toward. Try very hard not to touch that account.
Make a pact never to say demeaning or hurtful things to each other, even if it is said in fun or as a joke. Think before you talk.
Laugh with each other. Remember funny things that have happened. Relive those events.
Grooming – Because you love (Him or Her). Keep yourself clean – including your hair. Dress appropriately – this does not necessarily mean “fancy”, but with clean clothes, underwear & all. Use a deodorant that works for you.
Forgive each other.
Set some future goals. Maybe it’s to buy a house, a newer car, maybe it’s helping your kids through college, or a vacation for you both or for your family.
Support one another.
Be gentle with each other.
Give each other some space and some “alone time”.
Develop special interests for yourself. Allow your spouse to do the same.
Join a “Life Group” as a couple. You will learn a lot from them. You need to know that you have a support group if you should ever need one.
Help each other out with household work (inside and outside). Help when you see something that needs to be done out of the goodness of your heart, not because you expect something in return.
Let your children see your love for each other. You are a role model for them throughout their childhood, their dating and their married life.
Develop for yourself something that you enjoy – a hobby, a craft, a sideline, something in your life beside your job. You will be a happier person because of it – and it will give you a pastime and something to do even when you retire.
Keep God as your Focus – He is your guide – your glue – the One that can show you the way through scripture and prayer.
Give Him “Thanks” daily.
