What an awesome thread. (No, I am not being sarcastic).
I think we all get frustrated with the people we love the most. No one can quite get to us like the ones we have the most expectations for.
So a little insight into women, from a woman. (Be prepared for brutal honesty)
Women like to feel like a priority. If you say you are going to do something with/for her, follow through at all costs, or don't don't say anything at all. Women like flowers occasionally, but it isn't a get out of jail free card. Women also would rather have the dreaded quality time in most cases than gifts anyway, so plan something special. People who work all day in the trees tend to be a bit exhausted after work, but remember, the significant other might have had a crummy/exhausting day as well. Not every night, for sure, but on occasion it would be good to HELP at home, with the kids, cook if you have the ability, order pizza if you do not. Take charge of one household task that you left up to her before, say cleaning one toliet, or folding a load of laundry. Compliments are nice, make her feel like she is the most beautiful woman in the world. Tell her about your day, and ask her about hers (then actually listen). Get her a card for mothers day, and do something special.
Sometimes communication becomes difficult because women tend to hold everything you have ever done wrong against you for eternity. Then men tend to shut down, and build a huge wall. That is something that both sides have to work on. Be allies instead of enemies.
If you bring up a problem, be willingly to work on your part. If your partner is worth anything, she will work on hers.
Relationships are an incredible challenge, because no two people think the same way.
I have had to face a lot of things that I am responsible for in the past, and I am trying not to fall into some of the same mistakes, like taking that special guy for granted and being angry all of the time.
So, good luck. And remember, your spouse is your ally, not enemy.
