And keep that flame burning…

With busy schedules and daily routines, are you and your spouse in sync? Do you text each other rather than having a good old fashioned conversation?

It seems like the more technology our world develops to help us, the more help we seem to need. Ever notice how busy we stay with our computers, cell phones, e-mails, etc.? Or, constantly driving to soccer practice and ballet lessons? Eating dinner on the run? Grabbing our meals from the neighborhood fast food restaurant on our way to or from some event? These constant diversions can definitely allow you and your spouse to drop out of sync with one another. To get things back on track, try these tips.

1. Have a date night. Surprise your spouse by arranging for a date night. Check the schedule carefully and pick a night that is conflict free. If there is not one, it is a sure sign that you need to take a step back and rearrange your calendars so you can spend some time with your spouse. Schedule a babysitter and make reservations at a special restaurant – favorite of your spouses, a new one that you both have wanted to try, or one that brings back great memories. Make sure to let your spouse know about your arrangements once they are made so no surprises pop up on the calendar to interfere.

2. Put the children to bed early. Start all of your evening routine about an hour earlier than normal and get your children off to bed early. Not only will they benefit from a little extra rest, you and your spouse will have some special time together. Do not use it by e-mailing, tweeting, or writing on your blog! Use the time to have a nice evening drink or dessert, conversation and cuddle.

3. Go on a walk together. Have you ever noticed that when you get outside in fresh air and nature, you just think more clearly? Well, the same thing can happen when you step outside with your spouse for a nice walk. Nothing major and marathonish, unless that is what you enjoy. Just a nice stroll where you each can talk about the day and even hold hands if you wish.

4. FLIRT! Heavens to Betsy, this Southern girl just said what? Yes, FLIRT! Nothing ridiculous where your spouse will call out the search party for you, but the art of flirting simply involves paying more attention to the other person than you do to yourself. Remember, just like you did when you first fell in love. The same thing, only deeper since your relationship is richer now.

Most importantly, find what is right for you and your spouse and stick with it! You may never have to utter a word about wanting to spend more time together. The results will surely be in the renewed connection that you both feel.

Photo Credit © Orange Line Media | Dreamstime.com

Tags: marriage, men, relationships, Women