Keeping the Romance Alive
Every couple hits this time at some point – the moment when you just aren’t sure if you “feel” it anymore. While some people just give up, many more understand that this simply means you’ve made it into a new stage in your relationship (congratulations!) and this next part takes hard work and dedication.
I know it’s always harder once you are married, and especially once you have a family, but I like to think that my husband and I have always put a priority on this area. And I am hoping that the work we have put in, the lessons we have learned and the things we make a focus will carry us through forever.
So what is the best advice I can give for when you hit this point?
Remember, the Small Things Matter
This is one of the first things to go when you hit this point. All of a sudden you forget to kiss goodnight or hug after a long day, and as a result, you simply pass by each other day and night. Many people don’t know how much a short email or text means during long days at work. Flowers sent “just because” and spur of the moment decisions to go out to dinner together. These small bits of affection go such a long way.
Compromise & Communicate
This was the hardest part for me to handle. I’m stubborn and competitive, and I’ll be honest – I always think I’m right. I’m also incredibly organized and particular, so my poor husband…at first I used to nitpick about every little towel that was out of place, every drawer left slightly ajar. But I was crazy, and he told me, and I realized I had to give a little. It’s a small example, but one that sets the bar for everything else. We are incredibly honest with each other, so if one us feels hurt or angry or neglected we just tell the other. And then we fix it. Now that I think about it, this part is pretty easy after all.
Put Thought Into the Big Days
While every holiday doesn’t have to be an extravaganza, knowing that your 
significant other put some thought into an important milestone or holiday day goes a long way. These things can easily be “taken care of” with a nice gift or flowers, but I have to admit that the times my husband does something different it means even more.
The same goes for traditions around holidays. These times can easily become overwhelming with family and friends, but always remember to put some time aside for yourselves as well during this romantic time of year!
Plan Date Nights
This is one of the most important pieces of advice I can offer. No matter what stage you are at in your romantic relationship, once you get out of the honeymoon period it gets hard to keep the romance alive. The best way to do this is to honestly make time for it. Maybe Friday nights are for the two of you – and you stay in together with a bottle of wine, go to the movies, or go out to dinner.
Or even better, take a small (or big) vacation once in a while. Even a weekend away can refresh your connection and spark some romance.
What is your best advice for a couple to rekindle their romance?
♥ HOF Girl
