Dear me,

It’s been three years. Three years since you stood up in the church where your high school sweetheart parent’s said “I Do” and repeated those very same words to your very own high school sweetheart. Three years ago, you cried in the shower during the getting ready process because you were so incredibly joyful about it all; three years ago, you danced to a total of 4 songs (one begin your first dance & the other being your dance with your daddy) because you were too busy talking to all 200 of your wedding guests; three years ago, you & your new husband ran not one but two tolls on the way to DC after your wedding reception; three year ago, the entire beautiful, overwhelming day was over in the blink of an eye…. and now the last three years feel as if they’ve gone by just as fast.

Since you said “I Do” a lot has happened. You started a new job, you started 2 businesses, Matt started a new job, you left your new job for your businesses, you bought a house, Matt renovated part of your house, you bought two vehicles, you vacationed together in Mexico, the OBX & St Thomas (and our currently embarking on a cross-country adventure) … you’ve had a full, joyful and incredible three years of marriage. Year one was adventures, the terrible two’s weren’t too terrible & while year three has proven to bring bittersweet challenges, you’re finding that there’s beauty in the imperfection & calm amidst the chaos.

If I could go back in time to three years ago, I’d want to tell you a few things. Not that three years in makes me some love or marriage expert, but I feel like three years in gives me a bit more perspective over the girl wearing the white dress.

– I’d want to tell you that nothing beats an “old married” night on the couch, in mismatched PJ’s and fuzzy socks.

– He’ll try really hard to make the bed, and you’ll learn that it’s the thought that counts.

– Cooking will never, ever be your forfeit. Just give up & let him take over:)

– You’ll never grow to love vacuuming, or laundry. But some chores will be just that: a chore.

– Allow him to take part in your business, even if it seems like he won’t care. He just might surprise you:)

– He’s never going to love cuddling in his sleep. It doesn’t mean you’re not attractive, he really does just need his space.

– Don’t try to word vomit 750 things that happened that day as soon as he walks in the door. Give him space, then talk later!

– Keep fighting the throw pillow fight. You will prevail:)

– Don’t stop praying for him just because you’re married.

– Buy him that smoker; it really will be the gift that keeps on giving!

– Marriage is a choice. Every day. For the rest of your life. Some days it’s easy, some days you fight. Decide to fight, always.

– Be patient. Not only is it a virtue, but it’ll get you through the “do men really think that way” moments!!

– Don’t stop dating him just because you’re married. Flirting is still really, really fun.

– Read The Five Love Languages over again (and maybe again). Remember that “love” can be shown in so many ways, in so many moments & so differently by the two of you. Learn to love the way he loves you & appreciate his heart.

– Keep begging for that second dog… you haven’t one yet but maybe one day:)

– Have designated time together & designated time apart. Learning to balance the two will ultimately make you stronger.

– Marrying him really will be the very best life decision you could make. He’ll love you, support you & stand by you through life’s hard moments & life’s great ones. He’ll make you laugh, make you cry, make you happy & make you sad. Marriage is the greatest adventure & he’s your high school sweetheart, for life.

Love, Me

Photography by Katelyn James Photography /// Flowers by Amanda Veronee