Lucky Anniversary

Back in March...

Andrew and I celebrated 17 months married on the 17th.  

How fun is it that this anniversary fell on St. Patrick's Day?

In true Stephanie fashion I couldn't let this day slip away without some fun treats and celebrations.

Sneaky leprechaun left some goodies

I live for this stuff

Lunchbox jokes

I am so glad Andrew just smiles, tells me I am cute, and plays along, because I am a sucker for a good theme, printables, and a celebration!  Who is really making out here, though?

I may or may not need to reel it in before we have little Welshicans {aka kids}. 

What will I think of next?

It isn't St. Patrick's day with out green beer and it isn't an anniversary without "cheers" to many more.

YES, I take my printables with me in public and have no shame.

Life is about celebrating your journey {no comparing} and enjoying every stage.  Don't wish the days away because someday you will be wanting this moment back.  Be present and make the most of where you are at right now.  Andrew and I aren't perfect but after living 3 years of our relationship with an ocean between us we try hard to balance difficult times with fun times. 

Challenging times come and go but without them we wouldn't know how to fully embrace the good.  When we make the most of even a silly anniversary it is something we can hold onto when we feel like our world is crumbling beneath us.  All these moments help us to keep a realistic outlook.  

What is your secret to staying balanced?

Blessed and in love

Don't you worry, I had my green and sparkles on as well...

If you are counting...today marks 19 months married! Time flies when you are having fun.

Six Months

A milestone in a lifetime journey.

Our journey began {almost} 3 1/2 year ago.

A new chapter was started 6 months ago.

Wales to America, Andrew made the biggest move of his life.
I am blessed that he chose me to spend his life with.

Everyday is a new challenge.
Some days are better than others,
but everyday we are learning and growing.

Marriage is hard work.
Marriage is rewarding.
Marriage is team work.

Most of all...
Marriage is having your best friend with you always!

Through the tears, arguments and silly fights good times will prevail.  
Here is to many more months {and years} of you and me.  Forever and always.

xoxo

The Ugly Truth

#madewithstudio

These are my thoughts, feelings, and opinions based off of my personal experience. No studies or {official} facts are attached to anything because sometimes hearing ugly truths {no sugar coats here} from a real person and not some fancy or accredited article/magazine makes you feel less crazy and that is why I choose to share.  My hope is that someone else finds comfort in knowing they are not alone.     

Marriage is hard work - but a constant learning process that should be fun, so be patient.  

Perfection is a perception - be happy with your perfection and STOP trying to be someone else.

Sorry is often said as an instinct - and not with a understanding that one will in fact try to do better 

Keeping score is not for couples - compromise and LOTS of communication are better strategies.  

Home is where you live with the ones you love - this can be anywhere nothing more is needed

It isn't your place to judge others - you don't know what battles they are fighting

Everyone has a different patience level - be understanding, always!

God - the one that is always there, always listening, and always amazing  

Forgiveness should be practiced - but not to be expected 

Friends are Family - never under estimate their powers