My wife once said to me, "So, who is this Brad Pitt guy, anyway?"
I immediately handed her the credit card.
Because here's the thing ... It's not as if we husbands are so shallow that we require compliments to operate correctly. We can make it through the day just fine without hearing, "Oh sweetie, it makes me want to kiss you all over when you explain the difference between your jig and miter saws." No, no. Real men are too sensible to need affirmation and encouragement. We want to bring home the bacon (and eat most of it when you're not looking).
But ... if we were the kind of guys who needed a kind word or two every once in a while (wink-wink-nudge-nudge, say no more), here are a few things you might whisper during a quiet moment.
1. "I didn't know you could do that!"
(The exclamation point is optional.) When hubby hears this, he thinks, "You liked that? Wait until you see what's up next!"
I'm proud of you
I trust you. I appreciate you. I support you.
You make me feel safe
I believe in you
I was wrong
I'm sorry