What I've Learned In 2 Years of Marriage

{June 4, 2011}

I honestly cannot even believe it's been 2 years...2 YEARS. When posting anniversary hoopla on Facebook some friends/family said "it's been one year right?"...nope! 2 years! Ya, I'm just about as stunned as you are. I can't figure where the time went! My dad tells me that hitting 25 years feels about the same, craziness! I don't know where to begin with this post...perhaps I'll share my limited marriage wisdom I've procured these past two years?

What I've learned in 2 years of marriage:

+ Pick your battles. Socks left on the floor is not much to nag about...but milk left out on the counter? Hmmmm, yes. I don't need to be drinking sour milk the next day {which has actually happened}

+ Recognize that you are in this together. Make decisions that will help in your progression as a couple and a future family. 

+ "You're only as strong as your weakest link"...seeing as how you are in this together, your weakness becomes something you conquer as a couple and vice versa. 

+ Share your strengths & talents with one another to fill in the gaps {i.e. I communicate probably too much and he not so much...I taught him how to talk about feelings!}

+ Even though it's gotten ahem..."comfortable", leave the tooting/nose picking to the bathroom. We need a little freaking mystery people.

+ Learn each other's "fighting" styles and accommodate. I like to fix things right away whereas Ryan likes to take a breather. We have now found a balance that makes us both happy.

+ Encourage each other to be better. To cultivate skills and talents, to pursue your passions. It makes both of you better people and everyone happier.

+ Listen listen listen. It's easy to throw criticism at others while it's difficult to hear it about yourself. Reminding yourself that your spouse it there to help & love you will make it easier to hear the things you need to work on. Then ask for help on it, if needed!

+ Make the time to show that you appreciate one another, give service. {keep each other in mind, do the dishes while she's at work, or make his favorite dinner when he is studying}

+ Look to those who have been married for a long time for practical advice.

+ Give hugs/kisses & say I love you every single day :)

Due to Ryan's crazy work schedule {being home at 9:00pm every night}, on our anniversary day I picked up dinner from Wood Ranch and bought myself some gorgeous peonies from Trader Joes. It was simple, no gifts, no going out, nothing too fancy...but I loved it just the same. We talked about our day, laughed about how crazy the past two years have been and planned out our anniversary date for this Sunday {his only day off}. We're heading to the beach, relaxing in the sun, and eating some delish food on the pier. Can't wait! :) 

Thanks to everyone for wishing us a happy anniversary!