What Are the Secrets to a Happy Marriage?

 

Something to Talk About

National Public Radio! My husband and I spend a lot of time during the week driving in separate cars. We both listen to NPR. At the end of the day, when we are done talking about work, one of us will say, "Did you hear the piece about…?" It's nice to have so much to discuss.
Amy J. Fischer
East Patchogue, New York
 
The key to a happy marriage is speaking the same language. My husband and I both speak sarcasm fluently.
Stacey Lerner
Beverly Hills, Michigan
 
My husband and I live an hour and a half away from our parents. Those long drives give us time to vent about our families, talk about our pasts, and reaffirm our bond. The kids sleep, and we connect―he talks to me more in the car in that small amount of time than in a whole month at home.
Mickie Stiers
Columbus, Ohio
 
My husband of 35 years and I agree that every couple should go out of town yearly, without the children, and follow this not-so-simple rule: "You cannot discuss the kids or your jobs." It is amazing how much you can find to talk about.
Franki Chabalewski
Richmond, Virginia
 
 

In Brief

Kissing every day, even when you don't feel like it.
Su-Ren Leong
Kalamazoo, Michigan
 
I once asked an elderly neighbor this very same question. He and his wife had been married more than 50 years. He replied, "Oh, my dear, it's really very simple. My wife and I agreed long ago that I'd make all the big decisions and she'd make all the little decisions. And in all these years together, there just haven't been any big decisions."
Cecilia Saad
Washington, D.C.
 
Separate bathrooms.
Nikki Marks
Bedminster, New Jersey
 
My husband's wireless headphones during football season.
Sabrina Comstock
Arlington, Virginia
 
Wine.
Lisa Viselli
Bloomfield Hills, Michigan