Is the Honeymoon Phase Over?

I've been married for 5 whole months! The solicited and unsolicited advice that we've got from married couples was that the first year of marriage is the most challenging. I'd leave confused cause isn't the first year the "honeymoon" year? While no one expanded on that thought, I realized the gist of the message. Merging a life with someone isn't always easy. Two individuals leave the single life to become one. I wouldn't say it's been hard; it's more like a constant adjustment.

This summer, I was intentional about taking a break from everything I knew to focus on the new life my husband and I are building. I've learned a lot in these months, but more in the last 2 months than ever. It is hot in Georga in the summer, and our air conditioning stopped working the third week of June. We are grateful for my in-laws, who let us stay in their home until our air conditioning started working again. What turned into 2 weeks turned into 2 months. I was unhappy because I missed our space, privacy, and the ability to just be.

I became pessimistic about our situation because this is not how our lives should be. I was commuting an hour back and forth between work. We had early mornings (4 am). Spending a LOT more money on gas and food. We received the run around between our insurance and service providers. Life took a pivot for us, and it was a challenge to navigate. Yet, in my frustration, my husband remained optimistic, hopeful, prayerful and kept the peace. I SOOO appreciate him because he reminded me that things could've been worse.

So when I think the first year of marriage is the most challenging, I dont' think about it negatively. I understand the changes that are necessary to make a marriage thrive. Yes, we are back in our home, and our honeymoon phase is NOT over. I am still in awe of who my husband is and continue to be, and I am grateful.