10 Things My Parents Taught Me About Marriage :)

"Be careful little eyes what you see/It's the second glance that ties your hands as darkness pulls the strings/Be careful little feet where you go/Because the little feet behind you are sure to follow," Casting Crowns, "Slow Fade"

The Rambo's, December 1996

The Rambo's were founded in 1986. 27 Decembers later, the small ginger Rambo in the center, aka moi, is getting married, hitched! One day I'll no longer be a Rambo, but a Hazelton. 

I'm blessed more than most young brides-to-be. My parents had a fantastic marriage. Mom and Dad are so strong, loving, sacrificial to each other that I only hope my little feet can continue to follow where they go. Mom, Daddy, as you lived your lives, I watched from afar. And from you, this is what I learned about marriage.

1. Make your spouse your best friend. I adore how much you adore each other.

2. Don't fight in front of the kids.

3. You will both fall, so be strong for the other one when they fall. From bad days to depressing seasons, I've seen you lift each other up.

4. Never leave your partner behind, especially in a fire. You showed me this with Matthew's diagnosis and your support of each other during that dark time.

5. Give your spouse a break when you can. Wash the dishes for them, cook, take out the trash-live to make the other's life better. I see this everyday.

6. Do things you know the other likes because you love them, or vice versa. Mom gave up Jeopardy for this :D

7. Set nearly all of your free time aside for quality time with each other.

8. Deal with each other's odd habits. Let Dad watch the CBS Evening News in silence and don't get mad at Mom for being 30 minutes late ;)

9. Give and forgive, always, always, always.

10. Without a growing relationship with Christ, none of this is possible. 

Mom and Dad, you've led me this far. When I marry Andy on June 14, 2014, I want to be just as wonderful as you are, and I'm planning something special to honor you two and Andy's parents on our wedding day. Thanks for leading me. And for Mr. and Mrs. Hazelton, Andy is incredible, and I know the apple doesn't fall far from the tree :) I cannot wait to call you my in-laws and I value your wisdom and love, too!