somewhere else so we can afford it. Then I won't be so worried about the
money."
- Reasonable part of wife's request: To feel appreciated for the work
she does around the house.
You say: "I'm sorry. You're right, I haven't noticed. Let's start over
again. Help me to appreciate what has been done. Then maybe I can also
pitch in and fold some of this laundry. You have been doing a lot lately.
Maybe tonight we should go out to dinner." - Reasonable part of wife's request: To spend more of your free time
with her.
You say: "Great idea. Let's go down to McSorley's and dance until
we see dawn together like in the old days." - Reasonable part of wife's request: Your house does need some
repairs.
You say: "Okay, maybe you're right. What repairs do you think we
need to do?" - Reasonable part of wife's request: For you to focus on what turns
heron.
You say: "This is hard for me to talk about, but I'll try to listen to
you. Tell me how you want to be touched." - Reasonable part of wife's request: For you to clean up before
dinner.
You say: "Sorry, okay, I'll clean up." Then do it. - Reasonable part of wife's request: Buying the outside lights was
necessary.
You say: "You're absolutely right that we need them. It's fine that
you bought the lights. Thank you for doing it. But next time can we talk it
over first, like we usually do?" - Reasonable part of wife's request: Not to surprise her with a new
car.
You say: "We need to talk about this car. Tell me why you're upset." - Reasonable part of wife's request: To get a break from the kids.
You say; "Okay. Let's go for a ride, kids. Ice cream on the way for
everybody!" - Reasonable part of wife's request: To have sex more often,
You say: "Great idea. Can you wear the satin nightie? I love making
love to you."