I was a stay at home mom for about 13 years, so I did everything in the house. That was o.k. at the time because he was gone long hours at work. And he has always taken care of the outside....mowing, trimming, etc. Then when I went back to work full time, H said he would cook 2 days a week. That lasted for about 3 weeks, and it was the same thing pretty much with different seasonings. He fizzled out. He promised to do it, then he didn't do it. That's what grated on my nerves. I don't think helping around the house is unmanly, in fact I would have appreciated at least the offer. It would have told me that he sees I am working hard so he wants to ease my burden out of love. That would have made me feel closer to him.
In more recent times, I felt closest to him when he just kept me company, sharing a glass a wine, and chatting about our day while i was cooking a meal. Those times were rare, and pretty much non-existent in the few months prior to moving out. Those little things that show they notice your burden, or just enjoy your company.
All in all it's all about communication, negotiation, and meeting expectations.
