The past 15 years

Starting a new blog is always an interesting task...most of you have followed our family through our daughter Bella's website or through the Habitat for Hope blog. So in the spirit of newness, I will go for the old...

Mark and I became friends at 15 and began dating at 16. We were engaged at 19, married at 20 and Bella was born when I was 22. Izaiah came when we were 24, and Sam at 26. Now we have arrived at 30, and last week I had a laproscopic surgery after which I was diagnosed with a condition that will challenge my fertility. Having already decided that 3 babies was plenty, Mark and I are undeterred by this new information, but it does cause one to think over the years past. During my recovery I discovered a small chain of folded paper that was given to me at my bridal shower. The premise was that each woman in attendance would write a small piece of advice on the paper, and then they would be made into the chain to be opened at a later date. I thought it would be fun to record these nuggets of advice here.

always have respect for each other

Don't let the sun go down on youranger, kiss and make up

Always work things out together. If you can't agree, compromise.

Never go to sleep mad at each other

Don't forget to have fun

Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. If you have a disagreement say you are sorry before you go to sleep.

Set aside time every day to talk about everything, no matter how big or small! Communicate, communicate, communicate!

Always be open with each other. Open communication is very important.

Keep Jesus in the center of every decision!

Always work together

Always be ready to compromise

Keep your breath fresh!

Love is a commandment therefore it is an act of the will not a product of our emotions. There will be many times when you will not feel like responding to him in love. It is then, that your choice to do as Jesus would do - will be graced will the power to do the improbable. (we love you mama bear! thank you for gifting us with your wisdom!)

You can have a happy life together if you keep up your sense of humor

Be sure Mark knows how to do all household duties like dishes, laundry and all house duties. Share everything.

God 1st Husband 2nd Children 3rd Keep Jesus in the midst of all you do

Never go to bed mad. Always kiss each other goodnight.

Communication is a key to happiness

Keep the lines of communication open. Dont imagine what your spouse is thinking. Talk things over.

Never forget about the ones who care

Look at things with an open mind

Always kiss before you go to sleep at night

Take things one day at a time

Find humor in everything

Keep your smile and remember how happy you are now.

Always count to 10 before responding to anger