On December 11, my parents celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary.

FIFTY YEARS.

That’s fifty years of moaning about underwear on the floor, dirty dishes in the sink, talking over each other and neither one making a decision about where or what to eat.

Hitting such a milestone also means that is possible to have a companion to share a lifetime with. In this disposable, instant gratification all-about-me-and-my-needs world, it is so gratifying to know that some marriages do indeed span decades and there is still hope for the rest of us.

My parents are two tough street kids from NYC who raised two intelligent, wicked funny, beautiful daughters and although, they loved us and provided with a college education, they also taught my sister and I some important life lessons.

50 Things I Learned From My Parents

1. Your husband is your best friend and your lover.
2. A good marriage takes work and comprise.
3. A healthy argument will make your marriage stronger.
4. Never lose yourself in your husband or your kids.
5. Take chances.
6. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.
7. Say “Please” and “Thank you”.
8. Take no bullshit from anyone.
9. Always come to someone’s house kicking. Your arms should be too full to ring the doorbell.
10. Be street smart and book smart.
11. Education is key.
12. Be hard working.
13. Set goals.
14. Have a hobby.
15. Stand up for yourself.
16. Be strong. Don’t let the bastards get you down.
17. Don’t be a doormat or a banner carrier.
18. Be your own person.
19. Love fiercely and unconditionally.
20. Love yourself.
21. Kiss and makeup.
22. Show affection in front of your kids.
23. Hug often.
24. Forgive but don’t forget.
25. Eat salad at every meal.
26. Take your vitamins.
27. Red wine is a side dish.
28. Fake clean to keep your home presentable for spontaneous company.
29. Always open your home to others.
30. A garage is a storage unit attached your home.
31. Eat together as a family.
32. Always help others.
33. The sale rack is your best bet.
34. Thrift stores are treasure troves.
35. Friends that span decades are true gems.
36. Real friends are hard to come by.
37. Be truthful.
38. Be down to earth.
39. Music form the 50s is the foundation to all rock music.
40. Talk to everyone.
41. Make instant friends.
42. Be there for your loved ones.
43. Family is everything.
44. Parenting is the toughest job your will ever face.
45. Hide a little money away for yourself outside of your household budget.
46. Keep a nest egg in your savings.
47. Know the value of a dollar.
48. Never forget where you came from.
49. Laughter is good for your soul.
50. Enjoy life. It’s short-lived.

 Happy 50th Anniversary, Mom & Dad!

What important lessons did you learn from your parents?