How does one encourage more TIME with their spouse? Anyone else way down the list of priorities? I seem to come in somewhere after work, hobbies & children. [In that order]. Any suggestions on how to bump yourself up the list? Sorry about the grumbling.

Dear Confused,<P>I guess you've figured out that this is a tough question since you've gotten "SO many" responses!<P>I would suggest not worrying about where you fall in your spouse's list of priorities right now. You can't control his/her thoughts or actions, only yours.<P>I would suggest prioritizing your time so that you can hang out with your spouse doing hobbies or maybe meeting for lunch during work. Make time for him or her and I'll bet that s/he does the same.<P>Meanwhile, I would suggest that you do things that make you a happy and healthy person. Spend a little time on yourself, too!<P>I hope this helps a little.<P>FOLKS???? Anyone else have any ideas?<P>All the best.<BR>--HBC

Oh, in my past-marriage I was here:<P>JOB<BR>MONEY<BR>CHILDREN<BR>GOD<BR>ME<P>...and the OW of the moment fit in anywhere she could too...<P>Yep. I understand.<P>I never did figure out a way to help it. So, you know what I did? I took care of ME so that when he did look my way, I'd be attractive, somewhat happy (I wasn't actually, but I tried) and "worthy" of his attention.<P>Lord, this doesn't sound very encouraging, does it? I'm sorry... this hits a chord with me.<P>Yes, you did hear right, I'm divorced. But I'll tell ya, my ex realizes now how EASY it would have been to save the marriage -- if only he'd noticed how bad it was!<P>Good luck on this one, and I hope you get some good advice from others... it really is tough. I know.<P>------------------<BR>~Sheryl<BR>(a bit worse for the wear, but hanging in there)<P><B>Life <I>is</I> difficult</B>.<BR><I>The Road Less Traveled</I><BR>~M. Scott Peck