Why I Love Being Married: Reflections on Partnership, Growth, and Joy
Today is Valentine’s Day here in the United States, and while I know some people believe it is a wholly commercialized Hallmark Card holiday, I think it is always a special day to celebrate love. My love, of course, is my husband, Andrew. We met in the summer of 2004, and we got married in October 2007. Even though it has been almost 15 years of marriage, some moments it feels just like yesterday.
10 Creative Ideas for Valentine’s Day on a Budget
Valentine’s Day has a reputation for being expensive—fancy dinners, extravagant gifts, and overpriced flowers seem to define the holiday. But the truth is, celebrating love doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Some of the most meaningful and memorable ways to mark the occasion don’t cost much (or anything at all).
If you’re looking for ways to make Valentine’s Day special without overspending, here are ten creative and budget-friendly ideas that prove romance isn’t about money—it’s about thoughtfulness.
Missing Mom on Mother's Day
So yes, today is Mother's Day. And I'm wishing it was over. My mom passed away three years ago so she isn't here for me to call, hug or send flowers to. I have a lot of wonderful mothers in my life, and I do appreciate them, I really do. A part of me really feels like I should call my step-mom and wish her happy Mother's Day, but I just don't feel like it. I didn't feel this way last year, and I probably won't feel this way next year. But this year, yep, I'm abstaining from passing out some heartfelt Mother's Day love.
Marriage Evolution: When the Honeymoon Phase is Over
Do you know what I wish someone would have told me about marriage? I wish they would have said that marriage is not just a journey, but rather, it is an evolution. It is an evolution of individuality and oneness all at the same time. It is all so fun when you first meet and fall in love.
Mrs. to My Mr.: The Day I Said "I Do"
I am not sure how one measures success in terms of a wedding, but if success means you wouldn’t go back and change a thing, then our wedding was a total success. As The Hubs likes to put it, all of our hard work really paid off. I think planning a wedding is a test of the union that is to become. Along the way there are expectations that have to be discussed, compromises to be made, trust to be given, and an element of surrender released with the hope that everything will happen the way it’s supposed to.