It was so nice to finally go out for our 13th Wedding Anniversary. A new environment means all the world in dating. It's so good for your psyche. You almost feel like a new person when you have school aged children and date night is nearby or decorating the house to look as though you are in a theater or restaurant. My husband was creative at one time in having a projector, project DVD movies on the wall. I still love that. (It works too with in-home kids birthday parties as well).
We got dresses and dined fancy and went for entertainment. We had a blast. You have to be careful though as talk about the children or past uncomfortable events can seep into the conversation. A little is okay but of course too much can damper the mood. By all means change the subject. We as parents always say, "What did we speak about or eat before they came along?" You definitely have to be creative.
I used to give hubby a difficult time and continually questioned him as to why we don't go out anymore. Don't make my same mistake. This is just the "season" you are in. Dates are rare and that's okay. It comes with the territory of being responsible parents. Even the definition has changed and can include family outings as a time to be together in your double role of Spouse/Parent. It's also fun to swap Saturday nights out, with one of the children for alone time. And if you have more than one child, switch.
When you do get alone time have no expectations. I find that can ruin a good date. Make the date fun and real. Share something they don't know about you, no matter how small. They can never really know everything about you. Just stay away from former dating relationships unless you have that report with your spouse. Be the perfect lady and you'll find he will be the perfect gentleman and visa versa. Most importantly, remember to be each other's fantasy during the date, immediately after (hint, hint) and long after the date has ended.
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