Oh no, I'm not suggesting that you try to be something you aren't at all. I was thinking that what your husband may be looking for might be as others suggested you showing a bit of "need" with him. Not in a negative or "needy" manner but in a positive, appreciative, manner. For example, he offered up "constructive" criticism on the yard work you did. It sounds like you took it in a somewhat negative light. You could take that and turn it around a bit by saying in a positive, appreciative way, "ok yeah I see what you are saying. Would you mind giving me some pointers or show me a better way to do that?" In that situation you are asking him for his expertise and for him he may feel like he's helping you, providing for you.
So like Michele suggests, test and monitor. Think back on a few of the more difficult situations, conversations and such and think about how you acted, reacted and spoke. Then look to see if there is a way to change what you said or did so that its a positive rather than a negative, especially if it was something he perceived as overly critical of him.
If we really want to love, we must learn how to forgive. - Mother Theresa
