Before we dive in, please know that this blog post is just my personal experience sharing money with a S/O and there is no right or wrong answer to this question! What works for you might not work for others and vice versa. I’ve been on both sides of the coin, and there are pros and cons to combined finances just like there are separate finances.

We live in a world where we are constantly connected with the power of a computer in our purse or pocket. There is no clean, clear divide between work and personal life for so many of us. I got to the point where one email would put me in a downward spiral for hours, sometimes even a full day or two. The anxiety was so intense that it would make me physically sick, ruining special events, my normal favorite activities and time spent with people I love.

Never before in history have women had such control over the decision to prevent pregnancy. This is a completely new choice we are facing. And while we navigate the landscape of making that choice, there are also so many other beautiful stories of motherhood. I strive to share the deepest darkest parts of my heart here, but I know that my story is only one perspective. That’s why I wanted to bring in other amazing, strong women with stories to tell and experiences to share.

It’s absolutely beautiful, which is why I think it creates this huge hole in my heart. This massive fear of missing out. I’ve never felt so distant and disconnected with others in a similar life stage.

Andrew & I are always looking for ways to grow as a couple. When we first started dating and were long distance, we would buy two copies of a book & read it “together” from afar. It was SO attractive to me that he was open to new ideas, personal development and relationship growth. At the start of our relationship, we were both coming out of rocky situations. Andrew went through infidelity, leading to divorce, and I had just had my wedding called off by my significant other. Because of our history, we weren’t taking the relationship thing lightly.

Never in a million years did I expect to be marrying a man like you. A man who is grounded, faithful, intelligent, caring, loving, and not to mention, handsome. Oh, the list is a mile long, and I’ll love you always, even though you have very stinky feet.

I’ve been wanting to share this story for a long time. Andrew and I met on a double date. And no, we were not there with each other. You see, I was engaged to be married and Andrew WAS married when we met.

I can’t believe it has already been two months since our engagement! Where in the hell does time go? Back in July, Andrew and I had started planning weekly dates as advised by my amazing life coach (more on her and that experience coming soon). We alternate back and fourth on who plans the date. It was mid-august and Andrew’s week to plan the date.

This one is for all the hearts out there wondering if love will ever find them. I want to share my story (thus far) with you. Not to cheer on my own happy, new beginning, but to give you a glimpse into the REAL side of my life & love.

If you have been following along for a while on my Instagram account @thoughtfullythrifted you have probably read some of my vague posts about me having to sell my house and downsize to an apartment.