Put Some ‘Fun’ in Your Relationship
Sliding into a routine is easy but can be destructive to a relationship. With a little effort and planning, couples can put some fun into their relationship, says Donna K. Donald a family life specialist with Iowa State University Extension.
“When was the last time you did something together with your spouse or partner that was fun? Have you added a new interest to your relationship during this past year?” Mrs. Donald asks.
The ISU Extension specialist suggests 12 things couples can do to keep fun and laughter in their relationship.
1. Give each other small gifts on ordinary days. People tend to expect gifts on special occasions. But giving gifts when they are least expected can mean more.
2. Arrange some couple time away from home and children. An overnight stay in a hotel does wonders to refresh a marriage, physically and emotionally.
3. Start a fun folder. As each person comes across ideas or announcements of things that would be fun to do, put them in the folder. Periodically sit down together and check through the folder for activities to try.
4. Dance to the radio or a CD in your living room.
5. Take a walk --- down the street or across the field -- holding hands.
6. Make a coupon book. Include coupons for back rubs, foot massages, kitchen detail or help with chores.
7. Rent a movie or tape once during the month. Then take the phone off the hook and cuddle together on the couch while watching the movie.
8. Meet at a secluded place for lunch -- the park or a shady corner of the pasture.
9. Go back to the place where you first met. Recreate your first date.
10. Stop at a deli or fast food restaurant and pick up something for supper. Throw in a tablecloth and enjoy a picnic either on the living room floor or under a tree in the backyard.
11. Make up a credit/debit card for a job, activity, treat or special something your spouse or partner enjoys receiving, and give the card to him or her to use.
12. Set aside time each month for the two of you. On the same day each month -- the day you met, engagement date, wedding date -- spend some special time together. It doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, just the two of you having fun together.
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Donna K. Donald, Family Life Field Specialist
Iowa State University Extension
309 North Main, Leon, IA 50144
Phone: 641-446-4723 Fax: 641-446-6142
Email: ddonald@iastate.edu
3/27/2008