Happy Valentine’s Day! Today, my heart swells with a mix of gratitude and nostalgia as I reflect on my 24 years of marriage. It feels like just yesterday I got married, full of dreams and excitement, ready to embark on this incredible journey with my soulmate.

Life, as it often does, had its own plans. My husband, a hardworking and dedicated man, has always been immersed in his career. While his passion is admirable, it has meant many late nights, missed dinners, and weekend workdays. Our only child, a bright and sensitive soul, has faced their own challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. Seeing their struggles has been heartbreaking, and as a parent, I’ve longed to shield them from the pain.

Adding another layer to our story is my journey as an immigrant. Twenty-five years ago, I arrived in the United States, leaving behind the familiar embrace of my family. Without their support or that of my in-laws, I had to navigate a new culture, language, and way of life. This journey has also meant supporting my family back home financially, a few years back, a new responsibility I carry with love, but sometimes with added stress. There were moments of loneliness and uncertainty, but I persevered, driven by the desire to build a better future for myself and my growing family. And, I’ll admit, my successes along the way haven’t always been met with joy by everyone. There’s been a strain with some in-laws, a subtle undercurrent of judgment and jealousy that has been hard to ignore. It’s a delicate balance to celebrate achievements while navigating those complex family dynamics. It’s been especially difficult when their inflexibility has created unnecessary friction. I remember visits where we were forced to stay in hotels for years and because we were sharing one bathroom made it impossible to get ready in time for lunch, leading to their disapproval. Or the time during the pandemic when we were visiting, enjoying a rare moment in a park, and a sudden snowstorm prevented us from returning for dinner on time, again earning their ire. It felt like our relationship was constantly being judged based on our punctuality, as if a few minutes late was a personal affront, not a consequence of shared bathrooms or unexpected weather. And honestly, the constant scrutiny, even extending to social media, has been incredibly hurtful. It was so hard to endure the fact that my son’s photos never received a single comment or like for one of my in laws. It felt like a deliberate snub, a silent judgment. Eventually, I had to make the difficult decision to remove her from my social media; it was just too much to bear.

Through it all, our love has been the anchor, the unwavering force that has kept us together. It hasn’t always been easy, but we’ve learned to adapt, compromise, and find joy in the little moments. A quiet evening at home, a shared laugh, a stolen kiss, these are the treasures that have sustained us through the years.

Survival Tips for Keeping the Love Alive (and Sane):

1. Prioritize Quality Time: Even amidst busy schedules, make time for each other. A simple walk, a shared meal, or a cozy night in can strengthen your bond.
2. Communicate Openly: Share your thoughts, feelings, and dreams with each other. Active listening and honest conversations are essential for understanding and supporting each other. This includes being honest about the stress from outside influences, like family dynamics.
3. Show Appreciation: Express gratitude for the little things your partner does. A heartfelt thank you or a loving gesture can go a long way in making them feel valued.
4. Embrace Change: Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. Be flexible and willing to adapt together, supporting each other through every phase of life.
5. Keep the Romance Alive: Surprise each other with thoughtful gestures, plan date nights, and never stop courting each other. A little spark of romance can reignite the flame of love.
6. Set Healthy Boundaries: This is crucial, especially with family. It’s okay to limit contact or choose not to engage in conversations that are judgmental or negative. Protect your peace and your relationship by establishing clear boundaries and sticking to them. This might mean having difficult conversations, but it’s essential for long-term well-being.
7. Focus on Your Own Happiness: Don’t let the negativity of others steal your joy. Celebrate your successes, both big and small, and surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Your happiness is not dependent on their approval.
8. Remember Why You Started: Amidst the chaos of life, the challenges of immigration, family drama, and raising a child, remember the love that brought you together. Focus on that connection, nurture it, and let it be your guiding light.

This is my love story. It hasn’t been easy, but we have overcome all the challenges. Check everything I love on from my INSTAGRAM @yenismonterrey HERE ON LTK OR AMAZON STORE

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day today, I am filled with gratitude for the love that has sustained us through the years. It’s a love that has weathered storms, embraced change, and emerged stronger with each passing year. I am excited to see what the future holds for us, knowing that as long as we have each other, our love will endure.