Letter to my Newlywed Self

Wow. 5 years in the making! I can't believe how quickly this has happened and just how much I've personally grown as a woman, spouse and human. In celebrating Joseph and my 5 Year Anniversary, I wanted to take some time to reflect, and was inspired by Solange's "Letter to my Teenage Self" featured in Vogue, so here we go: "Letter to My Newly-Wed Self"

Dear Janeen,

1.) The Journey is Breathtaking, but not Easy

Take life by the horns and let go of your fears. You are an amazing, talented and beautiful individual and the smart, handsome, and extremely loving man you are about to take this journey of a life time with, will be beautiful but not easy.

2.) Rome wasn't built in a day

Together you and Joseph will overcome countless obstacles and it's in this that you will become stronger, more cohesive and provide you with a plethora of knowledge that you will be able to pass down and share with your children and loved ones. In order to continually grow, you will have to sacrifice, you will be tired and both of you will make mistakes. Things will not click overnight, but over time, so be patient and gracious just as you've been given grace.

3.) Be inspired, but reach higher

You will be blessed with a few positive role models that will help you in your marriage journey. Listen to their words, and hold on to their advice, but do understand each relationship is beautifully unique, so be inspired but the sky is the limit for what you and Joseph can accomplish together. So I encourage you, to also be your own role models and set high goals together. You can have a dream marriage and enjoy an everlasting love story.

4.) Don't forget who you are

Don't forget the woman who Joseph married. He fell for you because of who you are and the amazing potential

to transform into your higher self. So remember her. I know that being a mom, wife, friend, daughter, and boss are a lot to handle, but when you are true to yourself and make decisions in your best holistic interest, things will fall into place. There will be people who don't like or agree with decisions you and Jo make; its ok. You did not marry them and they are entitled to have an opinion, but you are entitled to live out your life with Jo as you all see fit.

5.) Take pleasure in the little things

Lastly, enjoy each moment. Kids grow fast, parents get older, but Joseph will be with you on this journey when everyone else begins or ends theirs, so don't take for granted the pleasure in the little things. Washing dishes, taking out trash or just doing work together can memorable and fun if you have the right mindset.

Love,

Your 27 year old-self