3 Years Going On Forever

This past week Chris and I have been relaxing in the sun in Panama City Beach with the Carder Clan. It was really nice getting to swim in the ocean (the water was absolutely beautiful) and get our tans on.

(this picture looks like Chris is going bald, but nope that's just his goofy hairline and the way the light is hitting it)

Wednesday was our 3 year anniversary.  Everyone couldn't believe that it had already been 3 years, and many needed reminding that we've been in NOLA for 2 years. It is crazy how time flies. 

To me it seems like we got married yesterday, but like we've been in New Orleans FOREVER.

So with our 3 years of marital bliss and living all by ourselves several states away from any family, we have learned a few things about how to deal with each other:

1. communicating and listening: We're all each other has got here. Sure we have friends, but ultimately it comes to down to him and me. Communication always is important, but sometimes listening can be even more important. 

Here's a true example: 

Chris says, "Megan, I'm gonna take out the trash." 

And I heard "Megan, you look like trash."

yeah.. we both laughed at that one, and it really happened right before we were going to go out on a date!

2. managing money: CAUSE IT DOESN'T GROW ON TREES!!! It is very important to make sure you have a budget and both agree to stick to it. Chris and I have been very blessed along the way to have never had to have any serious financial crisis, but we have been close! Lots of marriages get divorces over money woes, and having a simple budget to go by helps solve a whole load of potential problems. 

3. helping each other out: Every week we try to do something nice for each other.  Simple things like doing the laundry, washing the dishes, or vacuuming the rug can be really nice to help each other out. Since we don't have a dishwasher, I tame the kitchen sink. Chris will usually help wash some dishes so I don't have to that night. On the other hand, Chris usually mans the laundry and I will help him fold the clothes. Little things to help make each others work load a little bit easier can really be a nice gesture.

Here's to many more years of being married to my "preacher man!"

I wouldn't trade him for anything!