7 Things I've Learnt in 7 Years of Marriage

Well, here we are...we've made it to year #7 of marriage. In 7 years, we've: traveled to 8 countries, completed school, changed jobs, bought a house and had two babies. 

In celebration of my 7 year anniversary, to Jesse, here are 7 things I've learnt in 7 years of marriage:

1. We receive love in different ways. My "love language" is quality time. I love to just hang around with Jesse, watch TV, go out to eat, go shopping together or chat before we go to sleep. Jesse, on the other hand, loves when I do something special for him (ex. make his lunch for work).

2.  Pick your battles. Not every battle is worth fighting and not everything needs to be addressed in the same day. 

3. Fight the good fight. In 7 years, we've had many disagreements. It's a normal part of life to have disagreements. We're two people with different opinions, living life in close proximity - fights are going to happen. But I've learnt that our fights don't have to be full blown, yelling, slamming doors, pointing fingers, storming off, silent treatment, type of fights. There are ways to disagree without dishonouring the other person.

4. I can't look to my husband to find my self-worth. I have to be a whole person to meet with another person. Not two fractured people filling in the gaps for each other. 

5. It's ok to ask for help. I used to think that admitting to others that we are having a hard time working through something in our marriage was a sign of weakness, but I've come to realize it is actually a strength. 

6. We both recharge in different ways. Life gets crazy busy - especially with kids - sometimes, we just need to have time to ourselves to recharge. I find that I feel alive again when I spend time with friends or Jesse. Jesse on the other hand, needs to be alone. 

7. "Marriage is a work in progress and you have to work at it to make it progress."

If you're curious to see what we're really like in person, head over to my FB page and check out our live video: 7 Years Q & A (click here). I will warn you, it's live, which means anything could happen. 

4 Products for the Modern Baby

Things have changed a lot in the baby market since I was a kid. Gone are the days of the teddy and duck prints and everything primary coloured. These are the days of the modern baby. Yes, we {parents} still have baby items cluttered all over our homes - but now, they have style. But not only that, they're safer, softer, cleaner.

I recently had the opportunity of reviewing four items that are topping the {modern} baby lists. Each one different from the next, but all of them make my life as a mom a little easier and less worrisome. 

1. Dockatot

Dockatot is a multi-functional lounger, co-sleeper and play-time lounger. When Remi was smaller, we used the "Deluxe" size (0-8 months) for co-seeping and lounging around. It gave me peace of mind knowing that he could sleep next to me, without the fear of squishing him while we slept. Because it's made of all natural, 100% cotton, and is breathable - I could sleep better knowing he was completely safe in his little pod.

Now that Remi's older, we've graduated him to the "Grand" size which is designed for ages 9-36 months. Most of our house has laminate floors, so the Dockatot gives him a cushioned spot to play. The Grand is also helpful in transitioning from crib to "big boy bed". Yet, another "mom fear" - rolling out of the bed in the middle of the night.

As a girl with Scandanavian roots, I appreciate the simplistic Swedish design and versatility of the Dockatot. I'm all about multifunctional items!

Get $5 OFF using this affiliate link.

2. Finn + Emma

Finn + Emma produces garments made with GOTS certified cotton and non-toxic, eco-friendly dyes. I like that Remi's shirt has a modern design, but it's also safe for his sensitive skin. 

I'm a sucker for wooden toys. Finn + Emma's wooden toys are made from untreated Indian hardwood, finished with vegetable seed wax and filled with little beans. The totem pole design reminds me of my vacations out in British Columbia; it's a toy for Remi, and a memory for me.

Enjoy 15% off using this affiliate link.

3. Milestone Baby Photo Cards

Milestone Cards make it easy for me to document Remi's big moments. He's my second baby...and I'll be honest...sometimes I have a hard time keeping up with documenting his first year. These photo cards simplify it for me. All I have to do is place the Milestone Card next him and take a photo. I can even upload the photo to IG and print them in a photo book later on. Easy-peasy!

4. Lorena Canals Rugs

Loren Canals Rugs have made my mom life just a little bit easier. Their rugs and cushions are handmade, all natural and MACHINE WASHABLE. With two small kids in the house, things get dirty - fast. I no longer have to fear light coloured rugs, the kids can play on it, eat on it and then I can just throw it into the wash. One less thing that they can destroy.

Have a question about one of the products featured in this post? Leave me a comment, I'd be happy to help you navigate the daunting world of baby products.

1. Dockatot | Grand Dock | Pristine White, $5 OFF using this affiliate link

2. Finn + Emma | Short Bodysuit | Anchor, Wooden Teething Rattle | Totem Pole, 15% OFF using this affiliate link

3. Milestone Baby Photo Cards | Limited Edition

4. Lorena Canals Rugs | Lace Beige

Photography | Jessica Rediker

Disclosure: All items were gifted to me in exchange for an honest review. The words expressed in this blog post are mine, and mine alone.