I remember my dad telling me as a teenager, “Relationships are one of the hardest things you’ll have to deal with in life.” He wasn’t referring to only romantic relationships, but all types of relationships. Boy, was he right. I’ve come to realize that relationships are one of the hardest things in life, but also one of the most beautiful. No one is perfect, no relationship is perfect, and not everyone is always going to support every relationship. What truly matters is how we feel about ourselves, how we nurture our own relationships, and how we choose to support others.

Each day, my husband and I choose to love each other. Are there days when everything we do gets on each other’s nerves? Of course. We wouldn’t be human if that didn’t happen. But unconditional love is always there, and that’s what marriage is all about. Marriage, to me, means working through the tough times together and believing we can face every battle side by side. In marriage, even the toughest and most independent people learn to let down their guard and let their spouse in — not just accepting flaws, but loving each other because of them.

Some people say, “opposites attract,” and I’ve found that to be true in my own marriage. My husband and I sometimes see the world differently, approach things in our own ways, and have different personalities. But I truly believe our differences challenge us in the best way. They push us to grow, to stay open-minded, and to see beyond our own perspective.

The most important lessons and growth often come from the most difficult, uncomfortable, yet necessary conversations. We all know it can hurt to hear the truth, and we all think we’re right sometimes, but marriage has a way of humbling you in the best way.

In marriage, we commit to loving each other through sickness and health. We make sacrifices for one another and for our family. We learn from each other and we grow together. We set goals, make decisions, and plan our future and dreams as one. Love and marriage strengthen when you truly become ONE — not just “married.” In a healthy marriage, you don’t lose yourself; you discover yourself on a deeper level and flourish in new ways. 

As we approach Valentine’s Day, I wanted to focus on love and what marriage means to me for this month’s blog.

To my husband, Jesse — I love you with all my heart and appreciate everything you do for me and our family.

I believe self-love is the best love and the foundation for being the best version of yourself, which allows us to truly thrive in marriage. To me, Valentine’s Day isn’t about presents or fancy restaurants. It’s about unconditional, pure love and the reminder of why we continue choosing each other every single day. The simple things — going to bed together, waking up to a “good morning” kiss, laughing while watching our baby learn something new — are the most beautiful and meaningful gifts in life.

Jesse, thank you for choosing me every day. Happy Valentine’s Day to my forever love.

If you know me, you know how much I love LOVE & FAMILY. Whether you’re celebrating with a spouse, friends, family, or yourself, I’m wishing you all a wonderful Valentine’s Day.

Last month, I shared about healing and learning to speak up whenever necessary. Growth doesn’t stop there — it carries into every relationship, especially marriage. Healing, communication, and vulnerability are not just personal journeys; they are essential in building a strong, lasting marriage.

Bride To Be Series: Celebrating Marriage,
Self-Love & Family