I made 150 prettily swirled wedding cupcakes last weekend. It had been a long while since I did a larger order of cupcakes but it was satisfying cranking them out, and frosting each with a buttery-sweet perfect swirl.
Marriage – it’s a wild roller coaster ride. I don’t know anyone, my parents included, who have had it super easy. Which is why when someone asked me the other day “what is the key to a happy marriage?” I both laughed and cried inside. I responded that the key is that it’s not always happy. Yes, there are many moments of bliss, laughter, closeness, love. But then everyday life gets in the way. That’s why they say all that stuff about in sickness and health, for better for worse, in good times and bad – those vows are gettin’ y’all ready for LIFE TOGETHER.
So to that person who asked, I said: Listen to each other. Kiss, hug and hold hands – show physical affection. Laugh hysterically together, do things together that you enjoy as a couple. Do things they like simply because you love them, and ask for that in return. It’s give and take. Communicate feelings and take time to listen to your partner. You’re both going to screw up a few times, whether those screw-ups are small or large. Be forgiving, if you’re able. Marriages that look perfect on the outside (or on the internet and blogs) are guaranteed far from perfect. Oh, and when kiddos comes along – make sure you plan nights to yourselves! Pay a babysitter or get an in-law to come over.
Yeah. If only life was as simple, beautiful and perfect as a dark chocolate cupcake… ! Got any marriage or relationship tips you’d like to share? I’m all ears. xo Lyndsay
kayle
The best advice I received was never go to bed angry, and to take special time for yourself. That its okay to carve out special time just for you when the schedules allow, as well as time together; especially if you have babies. Its important for everyone to treat themselves on the occasion, its good for sanity :)
Lyndsay // Coco Cake Land
oh yes going to bed angry feels horrible, doesn’t it? that is great advice, kayle! i’m all for the carving out “me” time, too … xo
danielle @ this picture books life
Love these scrumptious-looking cupcakes and your wise advice. All true.
Lyndsay // Coco Cake Land
Thanks D – I’m no expert, simply being in a relationship for just about 13 years (married for almost 7 of those!) thought i’d pass along what I’ve learned thusfar … xo
cynthia
Love this post, friend. Words to take to heart as we get ready for the roller coaster ride. <3 And LOVE these beautiful cupcakes!!! I could use one or six right now!
Lyndsay // Coco Cake Land
cynthia! yes – your roller coastah of love! i’m so happy for you that you and B2 are getting hitched! xo
Nancy @ gottagetbaked
Beautiful cupcakes, Lyndsay. Glad to hear the job went smoothly last weekend (although I would’ve much rather that you hung out with Steph ‘n me at FBC!). Sigh, marriage is work. Lots and lots are work. Constant, never ending. But rewarding. I admit – I’m a terrible wife sometimes. I focus so much on my own misery that I can’t see what my actions (or inaction) do to my poor husband. So there’s a lot of owning up to my mistakes and trying to be better. To devote the proper amount of time to loving my partner.
kranthi @Bookthecake
Wow, those cupcakes are absolutely lovely!!!