1) Your interests and hobbies might change a bit. But I think that's okay. I am an introvert--I get energy by being alone. And while this is still mostly true, I think the way this looks for me has changed a bit--like my " being alone" now includes being with Josh. For example, running and blogging have ALWAYS been my things. However, I have somehow fallen out of love with running lately (even though I'm running a half marathon next weekend--it will be by far my most undertrained race yet...). I still sort of like it I guess...but not at all like I used to. I think that's because now when it's time to go on a run, Josh is usually working in the yard, watching one of our favorite shows, or going to the gym and I would much rather do those things with him instead of spend 2 hours out by myself. I also have always loved writing/blogging and usually have tons of ideas on what to blog about...but lately I guess I'm just not so inspired. I sort of think that's because previously I needed to get all of my thoughts and ideas out in writing, whereas now I just talk about all my ideas to Josh, ha.
2) Don't let your marriage be based on "happy wife, happy life". I know, I know...it's a funny saying that probably has a lot of truth to it, however I think as a wife that could be one of the most damaging phrases to get in your head. I am blessed with a husband who is super laid back. If I want something my way...more times than not he will just naturally give in instead of arguing about it. But I don't want it to be that way by default. I don't really know how better to articulate this whole concept yet, but it's been floating around in my head so I figured I'd just write it down. May come back to this one in a future blog ;)
3) Show each other gratitude--be intentional and specific. One thing I knew I wanted to start early on in our marriage was showing each other appreciation. We thank each other a lot. I thank him for mowing the lawn, filling the cars with gas, pressure washing our driveway, literally anytime I think of something to thank him for--I try to remember to thank him. He thanks me for grocery shopping, for meal prepping, for cleaning the house, etc. It makes it so much easier to do these types of "chores" more joyfully when you know your work is being appreciated. However, this probably correlates with love languages, so find out your spouses love language(s) early on...and speak into that often!
4) My parents have always said that for them the secret to a happy marriage is to always have a sense of humor and not take yourself too seriously. I so quickly found that to be true. When we're both tired at the end of the day and maybe even a little crabby, you just can't take everything so seriously or you will get in little fights about anything and everything, and who wants to be mad all the time? This was actually a little hard for me at first, but I honestly don't think I've ever laughed so much as I have since we got married--and that is way more fun than being mad :)
5) Sometimes...you still have to kill the spiders yourself.
