Do You Want Laundry Or Yard Work?

“Love is such an active process, and we are fairly lazy. So initiate. Then when you come together, initiate depth. Great conversations come from great questions and honest answers. Become someone who does both well. One of the ways I grow and experience God is over Mexican food with kindred friends talking about deep things.” J.A.

We walked in the door last night and I said, “You know what I really want to do? Take a bath and relax.”

And my husband? He said, “I think that sounds great.” (I then hugged him so tight.)

Clothes were in the dryer, folded on top of the dryer, and in the hamper to go in the washing machine. Clean dishes wanted to come out of the dishwasher, and there was a couple things sitting in the sink.

While I enjoyed the quiet, unhurried time, J completed all of these tasks, dishes and laundry and cleaning.

This morning we had a conversation about household tasks (paraphrased):

“I grew up with my dad handling all the outside tasks, and mom the inside. My natural bent is to handle the yard work and exterior work, but how does that sound to you? I want to know your expectations, etc. Would you rather me help with the small interior tasks on a regular basis or be aware of when you’re overwhelmed and get a complete night off? (Like last night.)”

We talked about it for a good 20 minutes, sharing our hearts and thoughts, being kind and honest.

I then recalled the above quote. Great conversations come from great questions and honest answers.

I’m thankful for a husband who initiates conversation with me, one who asks what I think about, what I expect, what I want, etc. It’s conversations like these that help us truly learn about each other as we continue to live and become one. We listen and love and extend grace the best we can. It won’t always be perfect, or easy, but I’m thankful the desire is there. 

PS – It was amazing how much I craved to simply sit; no book, no phone, no decision, no task. I relaxed, prayed, I let my mind wander to wherever it wanted to go.

— How do you and your husband divvy up ‘chores?’