The Importance of Being Whimsical

"Moody Dog" warning sign: image courtesy of Another Seb

What is being whimsical, exactly?

Here are two definitions from Google Dictionary:

1. Playfully quaint or fanciful, especially in an appealing and amusing way.
2. Acting or behaving in a capricious manner.

Sounds familiar to fans of Mrs. Helen Andelin, does it not? (See the book Fascinating Womanhood to find out more about the two sides of an ideal woman.) Playful actions often have a huge appeal for husbands. After a day full of business, details, hard work, or even boring but necessary activities, they appreciate coming home to something more lighthearted.

We might have capricious ways naturally but try to hide them or suppress them while we do the important work of keeping the home and family healthy and happy. This is a reminder to let changefulness and teasing playfulness come through in our actions sometimes.

What are some ways to do that?

• One day, wear a type of outfit you would not normally wear, especially if it is more feminine or colorful than usual.
• When you are both relaxed from daily cares, ruffle your husband's hair and say how much you like it all messed up.
• Let your husband hear you singing in the shower or at your chores.
• When you feel angry at him, really let out your inner child. Stomp your feet, pout, maybe even use a higher voice than normal to say (remember Mrs. Andelin's advice to exaggerate!) just what is the problem.
• Flowers are often perceived as whimsical - use them in any way you like. Perhaps you can fill the house with them on occasion.
  

What are some other ways to be whimsical? Please share in the comments section if you have ideas; sometimes altogether wonderful women have a hard time putting playfulness into their lives.

Additional resources:

• Fascinating Womanhood by Mrs. Helen Andelin (see "Where to Find the Books" at the top of the page for how to get a copy of this book).
• Here is a good article about how to use playfulness in communication.