the secrets to a happy marriage

Today marks 8 months of marriage for my husband and I. It doesn't seem real that time has gone that quickly. My brother got engaged in June, and will be married in November (just like us!) and it reminded me of how fast those 4 months flew by. The next 4 months will be no exception, and, just like that… our first year will be behind us. 

As I was pondering this, I stopped to read a list that we have framed on our wall. The list is from Clay's grandpa and was a wedding present for us. Every time I read it, I love and cherish it even more. So much so, that I decided to share it with you all. Sometimes the best advice is the the most simple advice… and from your grandpa. 

*copied as written 

Some Advice From experience. About marriage. 

1. The whole thing is based on trust. It's the cement that holds a marriage together. 

2. Marriage is not a "me thing it's a we thing!"Always, always consider each others perception. 

3. As the years fly by don't get so lost in the work a day mundane activities of daily life to keep your love fresh and alive. 

4. It's terribly important, as you grow older, to continually tell each other how much you love each other, need each other, appreciate each other. 

5. When you run into a rough patch, and you will, reflect back on what and why you fell with each other at the start. 

6. Always be able to honestly say "I'm sorry."

7. Communicate. Talk to each other and listen to each others concerns. Remember this is a partnership. 

8. Don't take marriage for granted. It's a living, breathing thing. It's like a garden, it needs maintenance. It has to be fertilized, weeded, watered, nourished in order to grow and thrive. Otherwise, it will die. 

9. Trust me, if you follow these instructions, your love for one another will grow deeper and deeper as the years go by. 

10. Finally, refer to this list as often as necessary. 

I hope that in 50 years we can pass on what we have learned about marriage. Something tells me that this list will be true, even then. 

Clay's grandma and grandpa 

5 Ways To Declutter Your Week (and relieve a little stress!)

Welcome back to the work week! Sometimes weekends are so jam packed with fun that I get nothing done. I'm not complaining, I will gladly ditch laundry, cleaning and organizing for family time and date night. This weekend, I got to do all that and more! And for that I am super thankful.

That being said, I am going to throw a few ideas your way to start your week off right. I've already done a few of them today, so I can promise you they work! :)

1. Chug a glass of water before you eat or drink anything else.

 

 

For me, this usually happens right before I am walking out the door. I wish I had to time to leisurely drink some water, but that's what coffee is for. For whatever reason, it makes my stomach and self feel better if that is the first thing I put into my body. Try it!

2. Throw away all of the wrappers and empty cups in your car.

I always put this off! And why? I hate having the clutter in my car. I travel a lot during the day and sometimes my car is my office. It is stressful and irritating to see clothes/shoes and trash piling up. I start to feel like I am losing control! I know it never feels like there is enough time, but pull into a gas station and throw it all away on the way to your next stop. It takes TWO MINUTES. And it will make you feel so much better.

3. ....and while you are there...get gas BEFORE your gas light comes on!

What is it about getting gas that seems like the biggest inconvenience in the world!? Is it just me? It never takes more than a couple minutes, so why the dread? I hate it so much that I will wait until I am running on fumes before I fill up. Today I decided I was going to save myself the stress that was bound to come in a day or so. I stopped and filled my gas tank up. It wasn't even on empty. And you know what? It really made me feel better.

 

 

I keep seeing this circulate and it makes me laugh. I am definitely the left person!



4. Trash Walk Through

There seems to be a theme with throwing trash out... but hey. I think clutter makes a lot of us more stressed than we know. When you get home tonight, grab a trash bag. Walk from room to room and throw something away. All of those bed bath and beyond coupons? Trash them. I promise more will come. Take a spin through the bathroom and empty those trash cans as well. Your house will feel refreshed... and so will you.

 

5. Cross ONE thing off of your to-do list



I keep a running list of general things I need to do. It can be anything from a thought to something I need to accomplish in the next few weeks. Pick one, and do it! Send out that thank-you you have laying on the counter. Pay the bill that is due. Order the prints you have been meaning to for the last 2 months. Whatever it is, just pick one. Small accomplishments are good for your well being.

I'm feeling better just thinking about these things!

Enjoy the rest of your Monday!