Hello All First and foremost, let me congratulate Lisa on being FIERCE, FABULOUS and FORTY!  I’m reminded of a quote by Benjamin Franklin that I shared with my husband on his 40th birthday: “At twenty years of age, the will reigns; at thirty, the wit; and at forty, the judgement.”  Here’s to celebrating life as we live it! And to make her celebration even better, blessings to her and her husband as they commemorate 21 years of marriage! That is definitely something to applaud! As a newbie in the wife-club, I strive to share that many years (and more!) with my husband.  Hope you both are having a blast in LAS VEGAS!

Brief introduction of myself, I’m Michelle and Divas With A Purpose is my little space to share inspiration and motivation with women from all walks of life.  I’m a wife, mother, sister, friend and all-around diva.  I’m driven, inspirational, victorious and called to action.  I truly believe that we can all learn and grow from one another as we make it through life’s challenges, obstacles and successes.  Feel free to stop by anytime.

I’m honored that Lisa asked me to guest post during her vacation.  I’m glad she’s taking time away to celebrate her milestone birthday and anniversary.  So many times, we get so busy in life that we procrastinate with spending time with those we love and care about.  Life is a precious commodity that should not be taken for granted.

In her post, Unconditional Love, Lisa was asked what her secret was. I absolutely loved her response, “…we really do make our relationship a priority!”  I’ll admit it – in our house it can be easy to put “us” on the back burner with 4 kids, a new house, full-time and part-time jobs, and everyday life happenings.  One day I realized that it had been weeks (okay…maybe closer to months) since my husband and I had anytime just to ourselves – no kids, no work, just the two of us enjoying good conversation like we used to when we were dating.  I made a commitment to change that and fast:

• We instituted bi-weekly lunch dates.  It was more affordable than dinners and we got a chance to eat without having to find a sitter for the kids in the evening.
  
• We called, emailed or sent a text more often during the day just to say “Hi’ or “I’m thinking about you”
• We said “I love you” more often
• I asked “how was your day” and truly listened and responded
• I took time for me. A de-stressed mommy led to a happier wife

Unintentionally, my husband and I began doing what Lisa attributes to 21 years of happily ever after….I’ll take that as a sign that we’re on the right track!