I've been keeping a running list of things to do with the kids this summer. I go a little stir crazy if we sit around the house all day. On day 2 of summer break, I was all "We've gotta get out of here!" Also it's super tempting to turn on Netflix or hand them my iPad if I don't have a game plan. Some of these activities are basics (bubble fun!) while others are more unique (the world explorer game!). Plus I'm a box checker and I love the idea of printing out a list and checking off each little activity as we do it--even the simple ones. Who's with me? So here goes. Oh and leave a comment with any of your go-tos that I missed!

I am no marriage expert and could very easily rattle off things Joe and I could improve upon (communication for instance) and that I, as a wife could improve upon (keeping score for instance). That said, I love learning about how to make a marriage work, I'm not afraid to ask for advice from those with more experience under their belts than me, and I consider our willingness to meet each other halfway a strength of Joe's and mine. Not to mention, we're going on 11 years of marriage during which we've endured 3 moves, buying a house, a job loss, a miscarriage, 3 pregnancies & newborns, and cancer and we still like each other so that counts for something right?!

A friend recently asked my opinion on this topic and after a lengthy text conversation encouraged me to write this post, so that gives me a tiny bit of confidence to 'go there.' But bear with me as I honestly and openly share my thoughts.  Also these thoughts are based solely on my own marriage/experience.  There are extenuating circumstances in every relationship that can make this topic tricky. And I'm well aware that there are some marriages that have years of baggage and hurt that can't be remedied with a few tips in a blog post. Lastly I can't share our experience without outing myself and Joe (just a little), so please be kind!

Can I be honest? I still hate the word Chemo.  Chemotherapy.  It was what I was believing against. I was all about supernatural healing.  Even though I've learned about all of the side effects, with everything they say "you never know."  "It affects each person differently." "He could have no side effects at all." Or my favorite, "You're young and strong and will withstand this like a rock star." Still scary but I'm clinging to the peace of God that passes all understanding.  I've promised God and myself that I will trust Him every step of the way. Even when I don't get it.  To that end, Joe starts chemo on April 1st.

we're not happy to be in a hotel room or anything. ;)

I would have loved to title this weekend getaway but one night in Portland, Maine was all we could manage. Even the crazy Nor'easter couldn't thwart us (why do I feel weird calling it Nemo?)! Husband and I actually made it an entire night away!  Thank the Lord.  We needed it.  I can totally see how people stay married for 30 years, then have nothing left to talk about when the kids are gone.  We've been married eight years (but everyone knows BK years barely count.  What did we do with all that time?!), three years post kids.  At this point we have plenty to talk about, have fun together, and enjoy quality time spent together.

Today is Joe's and my 8 year anniversary!  I am so blessed to be married to an amazing man and my soul mate!!  Joe and I are so serious about working at our marriage to make sure it lasts.  If left to our own devices, I have no doubt that we would implode and become another statistic.  Thankfully we have amazing role models, determination that won't quit, and most importantly a savior who loves us and wants to see our marriage last and have an impact on His kingdom.  Being married is hard work but as corny as it may be, the phrase --"I didn't say it would be easy; I said it would be worth it" comes to mind. And truth be told, oftentimes it is easy.  Joe is easy to love.  And as I always say, he's my rock. So steady and strong (not to mention a hundred other attributes...but then I'd just be bragging ;).  Anyway, I'm a lucky girl.  Hopefully he doesn't read this because he embarrasses easily!