On Nick – Bonobos grapefruit print shirt, J.Crew 9″ shorts, similar Sperry shoes
Each year for our anniversary, I put on my “something blue” wedding shoes and we return to the Boston Library for a photo right where we exchanged vows. This year marked 3 years of marriage (and 14 years together) for us, but of course it was even more meaningful because of the little addition that’s bumping her way into our photo!
We’re not big on gifts in general, but each anniversary morning has me eager to see my husband’s creative, personal take on the “traditional” anniversary gift. I shared before about the gifts I woke up to Year 1 (the paper anniversary) and Year 2 (the cotton anniversary). Yesterday, for our third anniversary, I opened up a box containing a small leather photo album titled “The 3 Years of Us (Before There Were 3 of Us)”. It was filled with snaps from our favorite trips, and this note from Nick:
“When we got married, we vowed to always put each other first—even when there’s a little munchkin spitting up between us and fighting for our attention. The book is wrapped in leather because leather is strong and resilient. It can be a reminder that as we pour so much of our love into this little girl, we need to devote the same amount to each other to keep our relationship strong and resilient.”
I loved the book, but appreciated this reminder even more. Having been together for a good part of our lives, we know that relationships don’t endure and thrive on their own. They take work, patience, and the ability to really hear your partner. And one thing we’ve learned from our friends with kids, is that there’s a new level of strain when you’re frustrated, sleep-deprived new parents. So while our little one grows, we hope to always remember to keep growing and strengthening our relationship with each other.
Those of you who’ve been married or with your partner for a while – what are some of your tips or secrets for making a relationship last?
PS – A few notes about this dress by Little Mistress (UK brand) – it’s a Self Portrait “look for less,” in a shorter midi length compared to the original. I’m wearing US 4 / UK 8 maternity, and the fit is snug on me in the torso. The lace bodice is a sturdy weight and non-stretch, and is lined in a skin-toned material with bust padding (so no bra needed!). The pleated skirt on the maternity version is not lined, so may be a little sheer if you don’t wear nude undies or a slip.
The same dress is also available on LM’s website for pre-order in non-maternity regular sizing (note the listed sizes are in UK, not US sizes) or on ASOS’ website in petite (with shorter skirt length) or tall! Love the look of the navy lace version in non-maternity, and also this mustard lace version that comes in petite sizing! My size in this brand pre-pregnancy was usually a UK 4 to UK 6, for reference.
