When you share your life with someone, it can sometimes feel as if you’re also sharing a large portion of your brain capacity…for remembering his appointments, health problems, and favorite (and not-so-favorite) things.

Why his family holds you responsible for remembering their birthdays may be one of life’s great mysteries, but that doesn’t get you off the hook. Luckily, deep down, he really does appreciate it.

So here are 12 things about him that it helps to know.

His Social Security number.

Phone numbers for his office, his doctor, his best friend, and his gym.

The location of his passport, life insurance policy, and will.

The birthdays of his family members.

His allergies and other health risks.

His health insurer, if different from yours.

Favorite foods.

The foods that make him sick.

The recipe for his mother’s creamed spinach (or some other favorite dish).

The TV show he has to watch (or else turn into a bear) and what time it’s on.

His favorite authors and musicians (to help Santa with that list).

His favorite drink or cocktail (so you can order when he’s late).