Summary: "How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids" by Jancee Dunn

Don't let the title scare you off--this book is really all about how to love your husband better (and how, hopefully, to get him to love you better too). "How to Not Hate Your Husband After Kids" by Jancee Dunn is like a friend who’s been through the parenting trenches and has some wisdom to share. Here are the key takeaways for loving your spouse better, even when the chaos of kids threatens to drive you crazy:

1. Acknowledge the Struggle: Dunn gets real about the challenges of balancing parenthood with your relationship. She highlights how the demands of kids can strain even the strongest bond.
   

2. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate: Like a broken record (in a good way), Dunn emphasizes the importance of open, honest communication. Don’t let resentments simmer—talk them out.
   

3. Share the Load: Parenting isn’t a one-person job. Dunn encourages couples to divvy up responsibilities fairly. Hint: It’s not all on Mom’s shoulders.
   

4. Keep the Romance Alive: Don’t let date nights become extinct creatures of the pre-kid era. Dunn suggests finding ways to nurture your romantic connection, even in the midst of diaper changes and sleepless nights.
   

5. Embrace Imperfection: Parenthood is messy, chaotic, and downright exhausting. Dunn reminds us that it’s okay (even necessary) to let go of perfectionism and embrace the beautiful messiness of family life.
   

6. Prioritize Self-Care: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Dunn advocates for self-care, whether it’s a solo walk in the park or a much-needed nap. Taking care of yourself ultimately makes you a better partner and parent.
   

7. Seek Support: You’re not alone in this journey. Dunn encourages couples to lean on friends, family, or even a therapist for support when the going gets tough.

So, if you’re navigating the wild world of parenthood and feeling like you’re on the brink of hating your spouse, take a page out of Dunn’s book (literally) and remember: with a little communication, teamwork, and self-care, you can keep the love alive—even in the midst of toddler tantrums and diaper blowouts.