Photos at Salvy the Florist on Western Ave. including Salvy M. (the owner) and some of their arrangements for Valentine’s Day. A dozen roses will be sent to Item readers, Kristen and Bill of Lynn, for sharing their tips on a healthy marriage. Special thanks to all who participated and to Salvy the Florist for the award.
SPONSORED BY SALVY THE FLORIST.
‘Love is in the air’ at Salvy the Florist this weekend in honor of Valentine’s Day. While Salvy’s has been preparing hundreds of roses, bouquets, teddy bears, and other arrangements to celebrate the holiday, they have also been asking Item readers for their tips on what makes a healthy marriage.
We’ve received many notable heartfelt responses that we would like to share in honor of this special day of love.
“Always make each other laugh,” is the wisdom from Diane H. who also said her husband of 35 years is her best friend.
Donna D. who has been married for 10 years, recommends: “Give more than you take…keep expectations low and faith high, and love unconditionally.”
Lynn A.F., married for 34 years offers, “Always build each other up and be kind to one another.”
While Nella G. gives us the advice, “I have been married to my husband for 40 years. It’s a lot of work, but if you are honest with each other, care for each other, and listen to each other, it all works out. Keep your faith in GOD!”
John G. says, “Work as a team.”
Ron B. provides these sage words, “Listen to each other. What you have to say is just as important as what they have to say! Listen, don’t just wait to talk.”
Finally, Kristen M. B., married to Bill, 15 years this coming May, shared the most important piece of advice she has found in her relationship. Interestingly, Kristen met her husband on a blind date set up after her late father met Bill’s father and introduced them.
Kristen tells us, “Our first year of marriage was a huge lesson for us: we bought a house and lived together once we got married, (we both had lived at home with our parents prior [to that]). So, that first year was an eye opener for both of us. We had some downs, but plenty of ups, too.
The best tip/advice is COMMUNICATION. Without talking and LISTENING to each other, you have nothing to appreciate from each other. You need to respect whatever the other is saying even if you do not agree. Don’t shut them out for being themselves and having their own opinions.”
One thing that every couple seemed to agree on is that marriage takes effort by both individuals in the relationship. Each of these couples are committed to working on their partnerships and being there to support one another. Everyone, single, in a partnership, engaged, married, or otherwise, can benefit from being considerate to others. This is true in any type of relationship, not only romantic ones. Hopefully, this Valentine’s Day, these couples’ remarks will lead you to pause and think: “How can I give the best of myself to the people I love?”