The past few weeks have been full of life in all it’s glory, pertaining to everything except my sweet husband and myself. I’ve been feeling a bit better, coming down from the non-stop action, daydreaming about the pending arrival of our second daughter and making plans for upcoming medical events for Addie. But then, as we were doing a little family shopping at Walmart, I walked down the card aisle and remembered: our 5 year wedding anniversary is Saturday!
Let that sink in.
Five years ago I woke up to 4 1/2 inches of rain falling from the hot summer sky, staring out into my parents’ backyard as my wedding arch was being drenched and the yard flooded. A few hours later my bridesmaids and I were on our way in my mom’s minivan to the reception-turned-ceremony location for our nuptials. Just as I turned and walked down the aisle, I noticed the rain had cleared. Roads were closed, the wedding started about an hour later than expected, our antique car ride to the party was canceled and things were going a bit off-plan, but there he was, waiting for me at the end of my white path strewn with petals.
What I saw as I walked to my future <3
So as I stood in the card aisle, checking out the selection of Hallmark cards (the new Value Cards are priced at 47¢ and 97¢!), my toddler being playfully chased by this amazing dude-turned husband-turned daddy, I chose cards I thought showed my love and our playful relationship. For me, cards mean more than gifts- the words we choose to use with those we love can sometimes be spit out from our mouths before we can really think about them, but for me, writing is such an outlet. Hallmark always gives me the perfect start to what I want to say- with awesome graphics and quality card stock!
There was a beautiful selection of cards, but mostly, at the point where we are in life, it’s more than just an anniversary- it’s the friendship we’ve cultivated. A marriage of trusting one another to make the right decisions in places where the other person is practically blind. For me, I have to trust our finances to Dave, and for me, everything related to Addie’s health is relayed through me to him. Our marriage amazes me because for years, I was not a trusting person… Dave brings out the best in me and for that reason, there isn’t a gift to convey how much these past 5 years have meant, but plenty of things I could say.
I chose 5 different cards to write in- one for each year of marriage. In each one I wrote something about that year of our life together- where we were, what we were doing, any memorable trips (year one we went camping then 6 months after the wedding on our honeymoon, while I was pregnant with Addie we spent Christmas in Florida and went to a wedding in Hawaii, this year we went to Cali…), big projects (hello year one basement renovation!), and so on.
I am in the midst of saving up to get Dave a fun gift, and I dream of having the kind of lifestyle where I could surprise him with a trip to New Zealand (we both want to g0), but went with a simple, classic offering. The fifth year of marriage is traditionally celebrated with wood, and my friend, who is in the process of adopting three (yes, three) beautiful kids from Ukraine happened to be making family plaques to raise money. There was no more perfect gift for us.
While there are a million things in this world we want, what we need, as a couple, is to keep the lines of communication open and always remind each other how much we love and appreciate what the other does. Hallmark helps me do this year after year in different life events and celebrations. But besides loving the care put into their cards, my all-time favorite part about buying Hallmark… the Hallmark Rewards program! You can earn rewards for the Hallmark cards you buy at Walmart. For every 5 cards you buy, you’ll earn a reward- I just reached my 5th and got a $5 gift card to one of my favorite stores! Be sure to check out Connections from Hallmark to sign up for Hallmark Rewards, and to see great content from other #CollectiveBias members and bloggers. Join in the #ValueCards conversation on Twitter and check for more card greeting ideas!
Do you have creative card ideas to celebrate your life events?
I love making thank you notes for the boys to send with their pictures on the front! It’s great for relatives who don’t get to see them often! 🙂
Jessica Morrison recently posted…Joovy Boob Baby Bottles – Perfect for Breastfeeding Babies!
That’s such a great idea!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Congratulations on your fifth anniversary! Sending you blessings for this year and many more ahead. You two and sweet your baby(ies) are truly remarkable!! I have echoed the same sentiments as you in regards to dreaming of the gifts that I’d love to give, but reality is a slightly different story and I love the gift you chose for your husband! You’ll have it forever, it’s a gift you both will enjoy. You will look at it every day and love it.
Reality is way better than our dreams sometimes, right? I never could have dreamed in a million years that life would be like this- but it’s way better!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
First, Happy Anniversary. I haven’t bought an actual card since before I had kids LOL. Now my kids make homemade cards for everything.
I don’t know why I am so obsessed with cards… but I am! I love when Addie makes cards, but I’m strange and always buy a card to go with it. HA!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Happy Anniversary! Cards are my nemesis. I always have to find the PERFECT card and of course it’s usually the card that costs like $7
Nolie recently posted…How To Be Prepared For Back To School
That’s why these are awesome! WAY less expensive, but still the awesome Hallmark charm!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Congrats on your anniversary! I love stocking up on the cards from Walmart.
Elizabeth @ Being MVP recently posted…Febreze Challenge + #Giveaway #noseblind
YES! They’re awesome for stocking up!!!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Happy Anniversary! I love the card selections, they are great for any occasion.
susan recently posted…The 5th season of the HUB network’s “Family Game Night” returns, August 3rd! #FamilyGameNight
They really are!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
I love traditional cards. They still make me happy after all these years. Thank you for sharing.
Nicole recently posted…KIPP Academy: Save the Music with Schoola
Me too! I hope you find some great ones for your next event!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
What a sweet post. I love the whole card for each year thing you did. He better bring his A game this anniversary. =D
Jennifer recently posted…Febreze #Noseblind Test and Giveaway
He brings his A Game every day. I’m very lucky to have such an awesome hubs 🙂
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Hallmarks cards are the best to buy too. I am not great in writing my own notes but I think I am great with picking the best card for any occasion that describes how I feel especially to my husband.
Jessica Cassidy recently posted…Why Simply 7 Snacks are the best and healthy chips to eat with your family
EXACTLY! I love that they give me a jump start to express it all!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Awe, happy anniversary, what great memories! Love the card you chose, how perfect for you two! ha! Also, great deal on the cards, wish our prices here were like that!
Tammi @ My Organized Chaos recently posted…Tim Hortons Duelling Donuts Contest
Check out your local Walmart- They should have the same awesome cards and pricing!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
You and your husband certainly have a great thing going. I’m so happy for the both of you. Your card for each year is a great idea. I hope your husband can match it with something equally romantic.
Courtney recently posted…Get Ready For Kindergarten With LeapFrog!
He’s not the romantic type, but he always has a trick up his sleeve that makes me smile. He reminds me everyday just by being there for us why I married him.
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Happy 5th Anniversary to you! I love the ideas you have for cards for each year!
Debi recently posted…Tips to Make Your Next Flight a Breeze
Thank you, Debi!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Happy Anniversary! I have never been a card person, my husband however always picks the perfect one.
Jenn recently posted…Clear The Clutter In Your Home And Garage
That’s so cool! My hubby forgets to get me Hallmark cards and it actually upsets me. Not sure why. HA!!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
That is just wonderful. I actually send cards to everyone I know, at every occasion. I love receiving cards and love to show people that they are on my mind. Hallmark cards are great at covering all bases… ha!
Seriously… I am just like you. Instead of rolling my eyes at cards, I feel like everyone gets them for everything- including Thanksgiving!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
I buy these cards all the time and stock up on them, actually! They are perfect for the last minute party invites!
Janel recently posted…Gluten-free Mexican Lasagna Recipe + Giveaway
That’s a great idea! I love keeping a few general HBD and TY cards on hand!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Cards are a fantastic way to let someone know how you feel. I used to make my own cards but now I buy them as there are so many pretty ones on the market.
Ann Bacciaglia recently posted…#TargetBacktoSchool Twitter Party Canada Aug 7- 9 PM
There are SO many… I still make the general cards with photos for the holidays (ordered through Hallmark, of course), but haven’t crafted greeting cards ever. Sounds like it would be SO unique and personal!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Celebrating with cards is so much fun, and meaningful! Hallmark always seems to have the perfect card to fit any occasion!
Meagan recently posted…Gluten-free Mexican Lasagna Recipe + Giveaway
I really feel that way, too!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Happy Anniversary…I always buy the cards, they are perfect for a little pick me up or a special occasion; thanks for sharing
CrazyMom a/k/a Melanie recently posted…We are heading Back to School with the cheapest wireless plan in town #Phones4School
I love how they can be for everyday as well as special occasions, too!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Hallmark Cards are my favorite! They are affordable and they are very unique.
Mama to 5 BLessings recently posted…Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
Indeed they are!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
I love Hallmark’s price point! You can pretty much get a card for pennies, and still send a greeting!
Amy Desrosierss recently posted…Wet-Nap Vs Chocolate Covered Blueberry Clusters: Who Wins? #ShowUsYourMess
Exactly! These new price points are perfect!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Such a cute post! Happy anniversary! The cards you chose are adorable and I think doing one for each year is such a great idea! I wish you two many more years of happiness!
Thank you so much, Pam!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
I love the five cards for five years. We are at 11 already!
I feel like 5 years flew by! Happy 11 years to you!!!!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
I love a good card and you have some creative ideas! I’ll have to check out the value card on my next shopping trip.
I hope you find some good ones for any upcoming events!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Awe I love that you chose 5 different cards to write in for each year that you’ve been married. So sweet and creative! Happy belated anniversary! 🙂 I’m gonna have to check these cards out at my local Walmart. I can’t believe they are only 47¢ and 97¢!. Awesome deal!
Tasha recently posted…TD turns ATMs into Automated Thanking Machines #TDThanksYou
RIGHT!? Awesome prices- makes creative card ideas WAY more feasible!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Happy 5th year anniversary! Hallmark value cards are my best friend and especially around this time of year because my family celebrates so many birthdays in the month of July and August!
Trisha recently posted…Comment on Having a Blast with Shopkins at our #ShopkinsPlaydate! by harold
SO perfect! These prices mean you can get everyone a meaningful card without breaking the bank!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Congrats on five years of marriage. I have always loved the Hallmark collection at Walmart. Our Hallmark store is quite a drive to get to so it makes it convenient
Tammileetips recently posted…Everglades National Park Travel Tips
That is so great! I’m glad the rewards are for all Hallmark Cards now, too and not just in store!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
After reading the story of your wedding day…well what a perfect card to find! Congratulations on five years of marriage!
StacieinAtlanta recently posted…Join the #NationalCheesecakeDay Twitter Party on 7/29 from 2-3PM EST
Haha! A bit of rain, much? 🙂
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Aww, congrats on your fifth! Very sweet post and I love those cards. They always seem to know how to say what I am feeling.
Danielle @ We Have It All recently posted…Colief Infant Drops, Relief for Colic
Me too! I love Hallmark for always having cards from the heart, as well as funny!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Your card for each year idea was sooooo sweet. That’s a super creative way to express your feelings.
Liz Mays recently posted…Join the #PEEPSMinisWM Twitter Party!
Thank you, Liz! I wish I could whisk him away… but that will happen someday. For now, I just want him to know he always has my heart!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
what a great story. I love cards. they are so much fun and there is pretty much a card for anything. congrats on 5 years!
There are totally cards for everything now- I think that’s so awesome! Thank you!!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Congrats! We’re celebrating 4 years next weekend! I love picking out fun cards that really express what I feel.
Christina S recently posted…Peppa Pig: The Balloon Ride Arrives 8/12
Happy anniversary, Christina!!! I hope you find some Hallmark love!
martinkadelux recently posted…Sleep in Luxury at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego #travel
Happy Anniversary to you & Dave! I love the wooden sign……. seriously wicked awesome and such a great gift! You looked gorgeous in your gown! Wishing you many more years of happiness!
joy recently posted…Wordless Wednesday- BeYOUtiful
Thank you, mama! Lots of love to you on your upcoming trip <3
martinkadelux recently posted…Damn it.
Awww–Happy Anniversary to you! We just celebrate 9 years together–next year is the big 1-o!!! Love the idea of getting one card per year and putting special memories inside! 🙂 #client
Nicole Elliott recently posted…The Very Best Thank You Card is a BuzzWorthy One!
Happy 9 years to you!!!