Number eight – we don’t want a daddy, we want a partner.

There is nothing worse than hearing that a friend has to ask her husband before she can do anything. That isn’t a marriage; that is a parent-child relationship.

Women are their own person, and shouldn’t have to “ask” to do anything. Now women, don’t get carried away – it is always best that if it involves a major portion of finances or an interruption of a family trip or similar situation that you discuss it with your husband first. That is just common courtesy. But, if a woman wants to join her friends for a lunch date, she shouldn’t have to ask her man. She should be able to tell her man that she is meeting friends for lunch and will be back later.

Again, not all men are so possessive of their wives; but many feel that they must give permission or be asked to “watch” the kids when the wife leaves the house. Guess what, you helped make those beautiful children too – so keeping an eye on them isn’t a favor, but a responsibility.

Another thing to think about – do you ask you wife if you can attend the poker game or go fishing? Probably not. So, why would you expect her to ask when you don’t have to?

Men, pay attention to the next time your wife says she is going somewhere. If she asks “is it okay if I…” then you know that you may be a little too “daddyish” and you need to let her know that she doesn’t have to ask your permission. Show her that you don’t want to be her daddy; rather, you want to be her equal.

Number nine – we ain’t your mamma, so don’t hold us to her standards.

Is “my mom makes the best chicken,” or “mom always used XYZ brand of detergent because it smells the best” often muttered from your mouth? If so, you probably have a fed up wife.

Women and men alike have wonderful memories about how mom used to do it, but if you want it just like mom gave it to you, you may want to move back in with her.

Women try really hard, and they don’t need their husband to invalidate the way they handle the cooking, cleaning and child rearing. If you don’t like the way it is being done you have two options – you can discuss it with your spouse in a reasonable manner, or do it yourself. You didn’t marry your mom, so quit expecting her to show up to keep house the way you are used to. Doing this now will make your wife feel much better, and possibly prevent you from winding up in divorce court.