Cheers to Three Years
On July 23rd, Brian and I celebrated 3 years of dating. It feels like just yesterday and it feels like forever.
I can't believe that we have put up with each other this long.
Want to know the ultimate test of a relationship?
A puppy!
Vet bills, 3am potty breaks, and a constant need for attention. Otis is like a tornado that moves through our house, wanting to destroy everything in his path! The first month with Otis was definitely trying. Brian and I were both completely and utterly exhausted. If you've ever been around me when I'm exhausted, God bless you.
Come to find out, Brian and I also have slightly different dog-parenting styles. (For the record, he's the mean one).
We are finally settling in with Otis and getting into a routine. I think in the end, he'll be one of the best decisions we ever made. I can't even imagine my life without that precious dog!
After five minutes of contemplating, I've come up with some advice I would give to couples in the first years of dating:
1. Don't Get a Puppy.
Unless you are financially prepared, have done your research, and are willing to make huge sacrifices for the first few months.
2. Be Direct When Communicating.
For instance, I told Brian that he would need to do ONE romantic gesture to celebrate our 3 year anniversary. I got a sweet card and a steak dinner. I can assure you that without some direction on my part, I would've gotten...ummm....
3. Forgive and Move On.
When it comes to the trivial things (which encompasses 99% of all arguments), just hash it out and then get over it. I also heard once, courtesy of Dr. Phil, that there is such thing as "The Big Three," meaning that you will probably argue about the same big three issues for the entirety of your relationship. While I haven't yet discovered three big areas of dispute for me and Brian, I may have discovered one or two. (Hint: My obituary will likely read "His Cars Drove her to Suicide.")
4. Have Separate Interests.
I do not like video games, shooting pool, or scraping algae from fish tanks. There are better things to do with my time - reading, blogging and reading blogs, to name a few!
5. Be Best Friends.
...but you probably already knew that!
Any additional advice from those who's relationship has lasted 5, 10, 15+ years? If so, leave me a comment.
Also, just as a side note, if Brian and I don't end up making it to year #4, stay tuned for a blog containing advice on what NOT to do in a relationship. ;-)
I can't believe that we have put up with each other this long.
Want to know the ultimate test of a relationship?
Vet bills, 3am potty breaks, and a constant need for attention. Otis is like a tornado that moves through our house, wanting to destroy everything in his path! The first month with Otis was definitely trying. Brian and I were both completely and utterly exhausted. If you've ever been around me when I'm exhausted, God bless you.
Come to find out, Brian and I also have slightly different dog-parenting styles. (For the record, he's the mean one).
We are finally settling in with Otis and getting into a routine. I think in the end, he'll be one of the best decisions we ever made. I can't even imagine my life without that precious dog!
After five minutes of contemplating, I've come up with some advice I would give to couples in the first years of dating:
1. Don't Get a Puppy.
Unless you are financially prepared, have done your research, and are willing to make huge sacrifices for the first few months.
2. Be Direct When Communicating.
For instance, I told Brian that he would need to do ONE romantic gesture to celebrate our 3 year anniversary. I got a sweet card and a steak dinner. I can assure you that without some direction on my part, I would've gotten...ummm....
3. Forgive and Move On.
When it comes to the trivial things (which encompasses 99% of all arguments), just hash it out and then get over it. I also heard once, courtesy of Dr. Phil, that there is such thing as "The Big Three," meaning that you will probably argue about the same big three issues for the entirety of your relationship. While I haven't yet discovered three big areas of dispute for me and Brian, I may have discovered one or two. (Hint: My obituary will likely read "His Cars Drove her to Suicide.")
4. Have Separate Interests.
I do not like video games, shooting pool, or scraping algae from fish tanks. There are better things to do with my time - reading, blogging and reading blogs, to name a few!
5. Be Best Friends.
...but you probably already knew that!
Any additional advice from those who's relationship has lasted 5, 10, 15+ years? If so, leave me a comment.
Also, just as a side note, if Brian and I don't end up making it to year #4, stay tuned for a blog containing advice on what NOT to do in a relationship. ;-)
Kelly
Are you sure you're describing Otis? I could have SWORN that was a description of Wilson ;)! All kidding aside, congrats on three years! You two make a beautiful couple!
ReplyDeleteCheers to you both!
Cassie