Before my kids were born I had thought out my parenting strategy. Being a “spirited” child, I had this idea that as a parent if I could be open and my child knew their opinions mattered then the rest would fall into place. We may not agree but you’ll always have a voice and I’ll listen. We all want to feel understood. Although my strategy was a solid one. I forgot the one thing that I wanted more than anything as a kid which was to be seen as an independent person separate

I have struggled with this term many times over my marriage. Generally it's when I'm angry. What the hell does happily married even mean- it's an oxymoron. I am happy and I am married. Am I happy because I am married? Well I am happy I found the only person in the world who can manage my big feelings. This came in time though, It's not like my husband came in a pre-wrapped package. I have no doubt it started with tolerance of my big feelings then acceptance and then.... we