This February my parents celebrated 35 years of marriage. Their love for each other is a constant reminder to never settle when it comes to relationships. I grew up watching my dad adore and spoil my mom, and to this day, I have yet to see them fight. Don’t get me wrong, they do argue, but even then, they teach me what “fighting fair” means. I’m so proud of them for being such an example of what a strong marriage looks like. There are many things they’ve taught me, but there are 5 relationship lessons I learned from my parents that I hope to never forget. 

1. Date Nights: My parents always made time for each other. Even now, they make a point to go on dates, even if it’s a small lunch date during the week, a weekend getaway, or a well planned, anniversary trip. 
2. Spoil each other: My dad is one of those who still opens doors for others, especially for my mom, and he carried a handkerchief for a good part of his life. He is a true gentleman. Both my dad and my mom are always finding small ways to spoil each other! 
3. Give compliments: I grew up hearing my dad say my mom is the prettiest woman alive. How lucky he is that she chose him. He compliments her looks, her cooking, her ways… I know complimenting is big while dating, but it’s something that should never stop after marriage. There’s a reason why “Words of Affirmation” is one of the 5 Love Languages. 
4. Fight Fair: This is such a big one. My parents have never raised their voices around my sister and I during an argument, and they have never, EVER, used name calling. Swearing was actually not allowed in our house. Fighting fair means arguing but not being hurtful, and staying on topic, amongst other things. 
5. Be a Partner: My parents are partners. The simplest way to explain this is, when my mom gets her nails done, my dad does the dishes so her nails last longer! It’s the little things… 

I’m currently engaged and I feel so lucky to have found someone with qualities similar to my dad’s. He’s a real life Prince Charming! I won’t settle for less…