My DH and I took a road trip to NC this past week. I hunted down some fabric/LQS stores to peruse. We finally found one really nice quilt store. He came in with me, walked around, made suggestions, wanted me to buy more than I needed or wanted, or could afford, talked at length with one of teh staff sewing blocks for a display quilt, asked if I was sure I got what I wanted, and we left happy. Next store he encouraged me to buy both yardages of fabric as he knew I would love and use both of them. I did.
He wanted nothing except a good seafood dinner which he got.
This marriage of 37 years has been a journey, not alway's equal, we worked on it, no abuse but lots of respect, and it works great for us.
I am sorry for those who are in an abusive relationship. It messes with you big time. My DSis is in one. She has health problems up the wazoo. So sad.
My DH mother used an iron skillet on him many times growing up. I am the one who taught him women aren't all like her. He had a lot of abuse from her growing up. Shameful women.