While we are still amidst a pandemic and do not have grandparents in the area, it has been especially difficult to secure a babysitter for regular date nights. it is important to carve out intentional time with your spouse to date one another.
We assume that just because we have been quarantined together for months that marriages might be stronger than ever, however; being in the same house does not always mean couples are carving out time to spend some one-on-one time together.
As a parent of two toddlers and one on the way, my husband and I have learned that we need to be very intentional about using nap time or selected time once the kids are asleep to spend one-on-one time together.
Here are a few ideas to spice things up and get creative with at-home dates:
- Create your own movie theater.
Before having children, my husband and I would spend most date nights at the movie theater. We love the whole movie experience – loud movie, big screen, fresh popcorn, … so we try to do our own movie theater experience at home from time to time. Pop some popcorn, add some M&M’s on top, splurge on your favorite soda, watch a good movie, and snuggle on the couch together.
- Cook dinner together once the kids are in bed!
If you are looking for something unique to do together, find a new and delicious recipe to prepare together once the kids are in bed. Sure, you might have to eat a little later, but you’ll enjoy it once you are sitting down together, enjoying the fruit of your labor, and having an actual conversation during dinner. Be sure to add candles to the table when you sit down to eat.
- Video game night.
It sounds childish, but if your man is into playing video games, it is a sure way to say “I want to try something new for you.” You can spend quality time together, learn something new, and it shows your man that you are willing to try his favorite things.
- Have breakfast in bed.
Having breakfast in bed is a unique way to try something new and enjoy a few minutes of togetherness before the chaos of the day.
- Do something childish.
Sure, it sounds silly, but sometimes escaping to the land of fun and creativity can connect you and your spouse in unique ways. It can remind you of why you fell in love with the other person. Have a nerf war, build a Lego tower, make marshmallow guns—do something fun and unique that you never do together.
- Board games do not have to be boring.
Spice up your competitive sides with a board game or card game night. It is sure to bring out your competitive side and have you smack talking one another.
- Watch your wedding video.
Sometimes it is important to take time to appreciate your journey as a married couple. It can be fun to watch your wedding video together, look through wedding albums, and even reenact how you smooshed cake in his face on your wedding day. Take time to appreciate where you have been and dream about where you are going together.
- Back porch shenanigans.
If you are a nature person, then a back porch date might be exactly what you and your spouse need to unwind and reconnect. Make some hot cocoa or coffee, enjoy a bonfire while making smores, put on some soft music, and soak in God’s beautiful creation.
- Dessert night!
Surprise your spouse with their favorite dessert and enjoy some conversation while you indulge in your favorite dessert.
- Have a “Chopped” Kitchen Competition.
Have your children fill two baskets with mystery ingredients for you and your spouse. Set the timer and compete against your spouse to come up with the most creative dish using your mysterious ingredients. It gets the family involved while also having a little competition with your significant other.
Whatever activities you decide to try with your spouse, remember it is less about what you are doing and more about carving out intentional time to continue growing and learning together. Challenge one another, get romantic, have some fun, make some memories, and enjoy the company of the person God blessed you with.
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Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash
