Date Night

Spontaneous date night is not really an option with little ones in the house. A plan is necessary! Unfortunately the plan is often times determined by the babysitter’s schedule. Funny how a thirteen-year-old can dictate date night.

Sick kids can play into the equation too. I remember one special evening. Scott and I had a wonderful plan for date night; dinner, an over night in a hotel downtown, and breakfast in bed. We had barely reached our destination when the sitter called to inform us one of our darlings was throwing up, violently. He wanted Mom and Dad. We returned home ASAP.

Dates are for just you and your spouse. Spending time alone together rekindles the flame and can help to keep the marriage strong. It’s good for your kids too. One of the best gifts you can give your children is a great marriage. There’s a tremendous sense of security when children see their parents getting along and having fun together. Also, your relationship provides a model for marriage. Unconditional love is displayed as you and your spouse work through differences, forgive one another and love through thick and thin.

Ten tips to keep the love alive

• Say “I love you” with words: a text message, an e-mail or a card. (I wouldn’t advise lipstick on the mirror. Memorable, yes, but it’s a mess and ruins the lipstick.)
• Share the story of how the two of you met with your children. Family stories are beautiful.
• Always greet each other with a kiss. The first few minutes you spent together sets the tone for the evening.
• Enjoy couple time after the kids are in bed. (To keep them in bed, check an earlier blog on sleep habits.)
• Listen to one another. Really listen. Keep communication lines open.
• Praise each other. For each “constructive suggestion,” give nine or ten praises.
• Forgive as you have been forgiven. Accept forgiveness. Whether you like it or not, you can be part of the problem!
• Be flexible. There is little room for rigidity in marriage or families.
• When asked for help, always say, “Yes.” This is the Golden Rule in action!
• Most importantly, pray together, attend church together, and read the Bible together.

Go back to your dating days…the anticipation and excitement. The two of you were a couple before the kids came along!

© 2012 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.

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Photo by Gabby Orcutt on Unsplash