Many married couples find that one of the keys to keeping romance alive in their relationship is arranging intimate date nights. Just because you are married doesn't mean that your romantic nights of fun have to be replaced by evenings of tending to crying kids or tidying the house. To decrease the likelihood that the spark of romance extinguishes in your marriage, plan some passion-inducing nights for you and your spouse to share.
Pottery Class
Channel Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore in the classic film "Ghost" and enroll in a pottery class with your spouse. By learning this art form with your partner, you can both spend time together and build your skill base. At the conclusion of class, not only will you have both enjoyed your time together, you will also have produced a tangible reminder of the good time you shared.
Late-Night Swim
Don't let the kids have all the pool-time fun--instead, take a nighttime dip with your partner. Swim in a backyard pool or visit a health club or hotel that has a pool that you can enjoy together. Prepare some snacks and drinks to enjoy during your watery good time, and pack them away in a picnic basket along with some flowers to set a romantic scene. Display the flowers in the center of a poolside table before diving in. As you and your spouse splash around, you may just revive the youthful feelings of old and rekindle some of the passion in your relationship.
Coffee Shop Game Session
Escaping the norm doesn't have to be expensive.
Date on a budget by turning your local coffee shop into a romantic getaway. Grab your favorite board game and head over to your coffee shop of choice, leaving the kids at home with a sitter. Purchase some tasty drinks and treats to enjoy, and find a cozy corner into which to settle. Play several rounds of your game of choice, putting your game-play skills to the test while spending some quality alone time together.
Dessert Competition
Treat each other to
tasty treats on your romantic date by planning a dessert competition. Gather some dessert-friendly ingredients, such as chocolate, cake mixes and frosting, and get to work in the kitchen, each of you preparing your own dessert creation. If the kids tend to get underfoot while you cook, ask a friend or family member to take them for the evening, ensuring that you and your partner have a private place to share your evening. Once your desserts are done, feed them to each other and critique each other's work.