I remember seeing a couple in their eighties and they were holding hands while sitting on a park bench. I will never forget that moment and how it touched my heart.

In saying that I would like some tips and tricks from you on what you think helps a relationship stay strong and happy.

Don't pay more attention to the dog than your spouse. (Unless, of course, you love the dog more - been there)

You know Gustav, that is a good tip. I have seen couples get jealous over the attention a pet gets. Thanks for the tip.

My parents have been married for over 37 years. Mom told me many, many years ago the secret. You marry your best friend.

This person is the one who you want to be with through thick and thin. You rejoice with them. You cry with them. You want to grow old with them. It all starts as a deep friendship. Must be true - I have honestly never seen a happier couple then they. It's what I've always based my views of marriage on.

Communication in both parties. The ablitly to be vulnerable and to share what you are truly feeling...I know this does not work always, if the other spouse or partner is not willing to listen, but at least you are being honest with your feeling.

I strongly agree with Linda, if the passsion is there also.

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Sandalwood's Cosmic Creations: Working with the magic of love....

Linda I agree with you 100%. I can't think of a better way to live your life than to spend it with your best friend. Sometimes the passion isn't there and when it isn't friendship will always help to get you through. Kudos to your wonderful parents.

Recipe for successful relationships..?

...don't be me!

Poor FM. You're day will come, trust me. When the love of your life comes along, you will be thrilled that the other ones didn't work out.

If love was easy and came without a hitch then it wouldnt be special!!

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Life is a canvas- you fill in the picture.

My grandparents were married for almost 55 years when my granddad died & I will always remember them as a couple that after all those years still really loved each other.
I guess I'd better ask my grandmother what their secret was but I bet a good communication & not giving up on each other when things get rough are all part of it!

Amlet, I totally agree. And sandalwood took my answer! Communication is the key, I believe.

I agree that good communication is the key. Some people bottle up little things inside instead of getting it out in the open. I believe that when you hold these things inside, not only can it damage the relationship but sometimes people allow these little things to accumulate and then they blow up and bring up every single picayune thing that they can think of. Don't you just hate when that happens?

Bill's great uncle and aunt were married for 75 years,his great-aunt just died the day after their wedding anniversary. Now that is a long time. They were the best of friends.

Here's a few tip on how to keep your love relationship happy and on track:

* Remember that you and your partner are best friends and lovers.

* Joke, tease, and laugh together often.

* Don't nag or treat your partner like a child.

* Choose making love with your partner instead of watching television.

* Don't wear sloppy undergarments or nightgowns to bed.

* Don't let problems go unresolved.

* Your relationship should be a top priority.

* Keep the passion alive--a positive attitude works here.

* Never give up being your partner's lover.

* Agree to negotiate for a win-win solution to all of your problems.

* Never let your pride stand in the way of your relationship.

Good suggestion Gustav. Include car, motorcycle and beer along with the dog.
I think the clue really is that you need to develop a friendship first. Create passion with atmosphere, plan it, don't just wait for it to happen. The tendency is to take each other for granted. Don't let that happen, show appreciation for each other every day. You may not have tomorrow.