Clayton and I have been married over 6mths now, and we've lived together for about 10mths. It's been a very big challenge for us both, going from a long distance relationship to being in a life long committed marriage. It's easy to think that once you emigrate to be with the one you love, it's all a happy ending but no relationship is perfect every relationship has its problems. I've learned so much about Clayton over the past 10mths, than I ever would have if we were still in a long distance relationship.

We never really lived with each other for a great amount of time, and sharing the last 10mths with each other in our cottage has been somewhat of a learning experience for us both. We've both learned to compromise, trust and respect each other. We've also learned to communicate more, to share our feelings and thoughts openly, communication was a big factor in an LDR, and it doesn't stop being the key factor in a relationship ether.

I've found a lot of differences going from being in a family home to an American Homemaker. From cleaning my own bedroom to keeping a whole Cottage clean and tidy. From being apart to moving in together, you both have different ways of living. It's good to sit down together and divide the household chores between you. It certainly helps prevent arguments. During the first month or two Clayton and I argued about the household cleaning, I have a higher standard of cleanness than Clayton does. Although after talking about it, it doesn't seem to be a problem much anymore.

The Computer has also become an issue between us. After going from an Online Long Distance Relationship, we both expected us not to spend that much time on the computer. But for me it's still a way of keeping in touch with family and friends, I also tend to work on my site a lot. During the first few months of our marriage I was alone at home a lot, and being lonely I'd use the computer. Even though I should have been doing housework, I felt compelled to be on the computer to talk to family and friends. I'd then feel guilty that I was spending to much time on the computer and not enough time housekeeping.

During our first few months of marriage we found a notice board in a store, which had “Rules for a happy Marriage” we bought it and have been trying to abide by them.

Rules For A Happy Marriage

1. Never both be angry at the same time.
2. Never yell at each other unless the house is on fire.
3. Someone has to win an argument, let it be your mate.
4. If you have to criticize, do it lovingly.
5. Never bring up mistakes of the past.
6. Neglect the whole world rather than each other.
7. Never go to sleep with an argument unsettled.
8. Always give at least one compliment each day.
9. Admit your wrongs and ask for forgiveness.
10. It takes two to make a quarrel, but the one in the wrong does the most talking.