Dear Annie: My husband and I have been married for 66 years. He was an only child and quiet, while I am the oldest of three girls and outgoing. We discuss everything; communication and compromise have been the answers over the years.
Also, we recognize that we have differences. For instance, he NEEDS quiet and alone time. Since I am the social person, I try not to talk too much at times — for his peace of mind.
I used to have company over two or three times a week, but when that became too much for him, I cut back. And we would discuss which guests he wanted me to invite over.
We each have things we do away from home, which means that each of us has the place to ourselves at times. We always try to think of the other person’s feelings. He does special things just for me, and I try to do that for him. I always continue to remember what made me fall in love with this person, and I believe he does the same.
Sounds perfect, right? But with all this, I am feeling sort of bored and like I want a little adventure. — Feeling Restless
Dear Restless: The grass is not greener on the other side; the grass is greener where you water it. All of the wonderful communication and respect for each other’s boundaries — and remembering what made you fall in love in the first place — are all watering your own lawn. Now just enjoy the luscious green grass that you both have earned. Maybe it is time to take a trip to a place you never thought you would visit. Or pick up a hobby that you both can do together.
Dear Annie:
I am grateful for my husband.
I am grateful for my family.
I am grateful for my health.
I am grateful I drive.
I am grateful that I am a good person.
I am grateful I have friends.
Thank you. Love your column. — Grateful Maria
Dear Grateful Maria: Thank you for such a simple letter with a beautiful message that can inspire others in ways you can’t imagine. I am grateful for readers like you. Keep up the gratitude. What we appreciate appreciates.
There is a great deal of research on the benefits of gratitude. Studies have found that giving thanks can help people eat and sleep better and just make you a more enjoyable person to be around, which improves your relationships. Making gratitude a habit can change your life.
Dear Annie: I had a problem concentrating on the work at my job because other people kept interrupting me, and I came up with a solution that I wanted to share with your readers.
We work in a large open room with multiple desks, and we all loved to chat. One of the ways I deterred people from talking to me while I was busy was to wear headphones.
Sometimes, I was actually listening to music or a movie; other times, I just put them in because I didn’t want to be distracted. This worked wonders for me, and my productivity went through the roof.
I hope this little tidbit helps. — Focused
Dear Focused: Thank you for your great suggestion.
Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.
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