Keepin Romance Alive - Date Ideas For Couples

Forgiving is Divine

2009-10-09T20:22:00.000-07:00

“Don’t treasure up past wrongs, reprocessing them again and again. In a marriage relationship, festering is destructive; forgiving is divine..."

-Dallin H. Oaks

The Say Cheese Together Date

2009-10-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

THIS DATE INCLUDES TAKING SOME GREAT NEW PICS TOGETHER

*

THE PLAN

We just had the opportunity to get out of the house and have my sister snap some pics of us while my mom watched the kids. It was fun and a bit romantic ( I spared you from the kissy pics) It ended up feeling like a date so I thought I would suggest it to you if you have not done this in a while. Find a place for those kiddies, if it applies, and have a friend or a pro take some great shots of you and your sweetie. Have fun together!

Tell Me a Story Date

2009-10-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

WHERE DOES THE TIME GO??

Life has been a whirl wind lately, but we have found some time to do a few fun things and this is one of them! It a cute way to put those face cards to use again. This is what you do...
With your traditional playing cards deal out the whole deck between the 2 of you. Then break your cards up into 3 random piles. (any amount in each pile will do.) Take turns laying down each card in your piles while telling a story using each card. For example in my pile I have a 1, 5, King, 6, Queen, Ace. I would then make up a story as follows. With 1 (1) apple 5 (5) Kids (King) managed to scare 6 (6) cats and a quail (Queen) into a airplane (Ace).
You can make up any story you want. it is fun to tell a story about each other. Give it a try, its something you can drag out or do really quick depending on your time frame.

Happy dating!

Be Lovable

2009-08-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

"If you would be loved, love and be lovable."

- Benjamin Franklin

How To Keep Romance Alive

2009-08-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

The Rubix Cube Date Idea!

2009-08-17T15:20:00.000-07:00

THIS DATE IS SPENT SOLVING THE MYSTERY OF THE RUBIX CUBE TOGETHER!

*

THE PLAN:

1. Make a snack together and get busy! Here is some help if you want some:

How To Solve Video Part 1

How To Solve Video Part 2

If you need a rubix cube, you can buy some fun one's here:

Rubix Cube

Snap! The Silly & Sweet Picture Date

2009-08-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

IT'S TIME TO TAKE A TRIP TO THE MALL!

*

THE PLAN:

1. Most malls have a photo booth for such occasions! Stop at the local pretzel shop or grab an Orange Julius, whatever your local mall offers. Then venture to a picture booth and have a little fun snapping a few memories together! Make it a date!!

The I Have Never Date!

2009-08-13T20:17:00.001-07:00

THIS IS A FUN GETTING TO KNOW YOU GAME, PERFECT FOR CREATING SIMPLE CONVERSATION.

*

THE PLAN:

1. The game is simple, you hold up 5 fingers and each player takes turns stating something they have never done. If the opposite player has done the stated thing, they put a finger down. The player who runs out of fingers first is the LOSER! It takes bit of creativity to think back on things you have never done and you might be surprised to find out a few new things about each other. This is a nestle on the couch type of game:)

2. Add your favorite drink to the mix. Our new fav. 1 C Lemon Juice, 1C sugar, 1/2 full blender of water, enough ice to fill her up, and 2 cups strawberries. Blend it up and wa-lah you get a great icee perfect for a hot summer night!

Entice a Few Taste Buds!

2009-08-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

YUM!

Just a quick, easy idea to make an evening a little more special for your sweetie! Plan a quiet night together at home, watching your favorite show, playing an game, whatever. Just make sure to top of the night with this! It is so easy, but so yummy, you are sure to love it!

1. Take a croissant, slice it down the middle, and lather it with Nutella for a really easy, really rich, and really delicious treat!

2.You can find your croissants in the bakery section and nutella is generally found next to the peanut butter! Enjoy...

Sudoku - Make it a Fun Date!

2009-08-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

THIS DATE IS PERFECT FOR ANYTIME FRAME, ANYWHERE! ITS A RACE TO THE FINISH TYPE OF GAME!

THE PLAN

*

1. Get 2 of the same book of Sudoku Puzzles. You can pick these up practically anywhere.

2. Ready, set, go... race to the finish! See who can solve the same puzzle the fastest!

We have had a blast doing this, I have to admit I think we are a bit competitive, but it has been way fun!

Is Going into Business With Your Spouse a Good Idea?

2009-08-03T19:45:00.000-07:00

Recently we have taken on a new endeavor together, we started our own business! It can be debated whether or not this is a good idea in a relationship. We have found that it has come with both pro's and con's, but altogether it has been an exciting journey for us. We have had a lot of fun with the planning phases, but have had to step back and allow each other to add our unique ideas to the table even when we don't necessarily agree with them. The one thing that has worked the best is to recognize each others strengths in certain areas and allow that person to take command of that part of the operation. For example, I have dealt mostly with the visual presentation of our website and advertisement, while Josh has been the brains behind the operation, pricing, licensing, etc...While at the same time we have had to hold our tongues and allow the other to grow in these areas as well, when they have had the desire. We know we will continue to learn a lot and have to work out a few humps as we go, but we think sharing a business is a great idea.

The following are 2 additional articles relating to this topic:

Is working with your spouse a good idea?

Helpful tips for those who work with their spouse.

We would love for you to share any tips you have for those who work with their spouse! Leave us a "LOVE NOTE!"

Check out our site and leave us some feedback at scentappealcandles.com

We are adding new product daily!

Our New Favorite!

2009-07-23T21:12:00.000-07:00

THIS CARD GAME IS OUR NEW FAVORITE TO PLAY TOGETHER IN THE EVENING! IT IS REALLY EASY TO LEARN AND WAY FUN!

To get the gist of the game go here:

Skip-Bo

To add a twist and make it a little more fun, why not turn it into a Saturday morning breakfast date! Play it while eating one of these perfect little Egg McMuffins!

How to Make the Perfect Egg McMuffin

Just In Case You're Wondering...

2009-07-08T19:47:00.001-07:00

We are still ALIVE! We have had a fabulous summer so far! The busiest part is over so we are back and ready to throw out a bit more fun here at Keepin Romance Alive! Just to re-cap with the Jones's. We celebrated our 8th anniversary in May! We are excited to take on more! We spent the first part of our summer in Lehi, Saint George, Lake Powell, The Grand Canyon, Zions, and Bryce National Park. It was our first real vacation! The best part about it was our spontaneity. We were supposed to only go to Lehi, Saint George, and Lake Powell then come home on a Thursday, but when Thursday came the fun was just beginning and with the weekend upon us we decided our trip was just beginning and that is when our site seeing began! It was so fun and we saw the most beautiful sites.

From our travels we brought back a couple of good ideas for the dating couple:

1) Plan a date and then do something spontaneous! (Definition: Arising from natural impulse or inclination, rather than from planning or in response to suggestions from others) Spontaneity can be very fun if you just sit back and enjoy the ride!

2) Visit a National Park near you! We hit several National Parks in our travels and there was so much to see. They were gorgeous! You will have so much fun!

Make it a Date...

2009-05-13T10:47:00.000-07:00

THIS DATE IDEA IS A SHOUT OUT FOR JON SCHMIDT, A FABULOUS COMPOSER AND PIANIST. FOR 3 YEARS I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO SING AT ONE OF HIS CHRISTMAS CONCERTS. HIS SHOW IS A BLAST. JOSH AND I HAD SO MUCH FUN. SO THE DATE IDEA IS SIMPLY THIS, GO TO A CONCERT! CHECKOUT JON'S LATEST AT THE LINK BELOW OR FIND YOUR OWN. CHECK OUT YOUR COMMUNITIES LOCAL EVENTS (HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE, ETC...) AS A SIDE NOTE JON'S MUSIC WOULD MAKE A GREAT ADDITION TO YOUR CANDLELIGHT DINNERS AND FOOT RUB NIGHTS. HE KNOWS HOW TO SET THAT RELAXING MOOD!

Jon's Upcoming Events

Marriage Advice By Kids

2009-05-12T19:46:00.000-07:00

(As answered by elementary school students)

How Do You Decide Who To Marry?
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.- Alan, age 10

No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with.- Kirsten, age 10

What is the Right Age To Get Married?
Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then.- Camille, age 10

No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married.- Freddie, age 6

How Can A Stranger Tell If Two People Are Married?
You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids.- Derrick, age 8

What Do Your Think Your Mom and Dad Have In Common?
Both don't want any more kids.- Lori, age 8

What Do Most People Do On A Date?
Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough.- Lynnette, age 8

On the first date, they just tell each other lies, and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.- Martin, age 10

What Would You Do On A First Date That Was Turning Sour?
I'd run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns.- Craig, age 9

When Is It Okay To Kiss Someone?
When they're rich.- Pam, age 7

The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that.- Curt, age 7

The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them & have kids with them. It's the right thing to do.- Howard, age 8

Is It Better To Be Single or Married?
It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them.- Anita, age 9

How Would The World Be Different If People Didn't Get Married?
There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there?- Kelvin, age 8

How Would You Make a Marriage Work?
Tell your wife that she looks pretty even if she looks like a truck.
- Ricky, age 10

Insomnia?

2009-05-11T19:09:00.000-07:00

" You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams."

- Dr. Seuss

The Badminton Date

2009-05-07T19:59:00.000-07:00

THIS DATE IS THE PERFECT EXCUSE TO GET OUT IN THE SUN AND HAVE SOME FUN. ENJOY THE FUN OF PLAYING A GREAT, YET OFTEN OVERLOOKED PASTIME TOGETHER...BADMINTON!

*

THE PLAN:

1. Beg, borrow, or buy a badminton set if you are not already a proud owner of one.

2. If you don't know the rules, check them out here:

How to Play

3. Figure out where you would like to play. Try a park, beach, or stay close to home and play in the yard. Have fun!

Soul - Mates

2009-05-04T18:28:00.000-07:00

" Soul - mates are people who bring out the best in you. They are not perfect but are always perfect for you. "

- Anonymous

Wrapping Things Up

2009-05-02T19:56:00.001-07:00

We have enjoyed 31 challenges over the last several weeks and we hope this was a success for many of you. As you may have noticed we have supplied you with enough challenges to fill a month. Though the presenting of new challenges has come to a close, we CHALLENGE you to mix them up and do them again. Have fun and good luck!

National Infertility Awareness Week

2009-05-01T18:46:00.000-07:00

BECAUSE THIS WEEK HAPPENS TO BE NATIONAL INFERTILITY AWARENESS WEEK, WE THOUGHT IT APPROPRIATE TO POST SOME HELPFUL INFORMATION ON THE TOPIC SINCE IT IS A COMMON ISSUE IN MANY MARRIAGES. A GOOD FRIEND OF OURS WHO HAS DEALT WITH THIS FIRST HAND SUPPLIED US WITH SOME GREAT RESOURCES AND ADVICE. THANKS HOLLY!

As the weeks, then months and finally years went on that we couldn't have children, it got harder not easier however maybe we are not the norm because I feel like infertility actually brought us closer together. When we first started trying to have children, it was hard, don't get me wrong. I had this whole guilt issue. I thought that Zach might love me less, or what if he secretly wished he wouldn't have married me because, I could not give him a child. I didn't dare bring it up, or discuss this issue with anyone, because what if were true? As time progressed, we became more open in our discussions and eventually after a particularly hard day, all my infertility issues came out, we talked and we laughed at some of the silly ideas we both had had, we cried because we were indeed childless. I feel like this is key in your marriage. Communication. Don't be afraid to discuss the hard topics, don't avoid the feelings that come along with infertility. Being able to talk openly about the pain helps you heal and gives you the chance to lean on each other when you may need it the most. Of course Zach & I dealt with our pain differently, I became ultra sensitive to comments people made, and sometimes would cry at the sight of a newborn. This was hard on Zach because he wasn't sure what I needed and to be honest I didn't know at times either. That brings me to my second point, yes you need to be there to support eachother, however somethings only the Lord can help us with, and that is often where I turned in times of heart ache. Prayer, and scripture study helped me through days when I felt like I couldn't go on. The only other advice I would give to couples dealing with infertility is to find a local group dealing with the same issues. Zach & I joined a group called FSA (Families Supporting Adoption) and we also attended classes on infertility and adoption, during our six weeks of class, we met other couples dealing with infertility and we were able to come together and not feel so alone in our trial. With these new relationships we found much peace and healing. Even today some of our best friends were couples we met here. So reach out, look around you, you don't have to feel alone in your struggles to conceive.

BEYOND THE RAIN

THE NATIONAL INFERTILITY ASSOCIATION

E-mail

2009-04-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

E-mail your sweetie today. Say something nice, leave something funny, etc...(if you share an account like us just e-mail yourself and address it to them in the subject box)

I Feel Good When...

2009-04-29T19:30:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Tell your sweetie one thing they do that makes you feel special.

Remember When...

2009-04-29T18:18:00.000-07:00

REMEMBER WHEN YOU FIRST MET? WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST DATE? THIS DATE IDEA INCLUDES RELIVING THAT VERY FIRST MEMORY TOGETHER.

*

THE PLAN:

1. Take a walk down memory lane and re-create your very first date.

2. As you re-create this fun date, it might be fun or even funny to reminisce and share some of the things you remembered about your first date and also the very first time you laid eyes on each other.

Sharing Time

2009-04-28T19:27:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Share something about yourself with your sweetie today that you think they might not know. (This can be anything, a childhood story, your thoughts when you first met, etc...)

Falling In Love

2009-04-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

"A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person."

-Mignon Mclaughlin

Leave a Tip

2009-04-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Share with us one tip you would give other couples like yourselves. Just leave us a "love note"

Our Motto

2009-04-26T19:21:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Come up with a relationship motto together. (A phrase you want to live by) For example, Live, Laugh, Love...

Long Lasting Marriage

2009-04-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

Check out the following link for a few minutes of good marriage advice featured on MSN channel 9 news. There are two short videos that will play and just to warn you, you will have to watch a 15 second add before it will play. Enjoy!

Long Lasting Marriage

You Flirt ,You

2009-04-23T20:00:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Brush up on your flirting skills today. (With your sweetie of course.)

Come And See!

2009-04-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Invite your better half to look at the blog with you today. ( This challenge was a request from a friend.)

That Feels Good!

2009-04-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Give your sweetie a back rub today.

My Kind Of Paintball Date

2009-04-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

THIS DATE WILL BE A BLAST! PLAN THE DATE WITH SOME FRIENDS OR TWIST THE RULES TO ACCOMMODATE PLAYING WITH EACH OTHER. EITHER WAY IT IS SURE TO BE FUN. WE FOUND SOME GREAT ALTERNATIVES TO KEEP THE COSTS FOR THIS DATE PRACTICAL. AND JUST REMEMBER TO PLAY NICE!

*
THE PLAN:

1. Plan were you are going to play. We would suggest an open field, river bottoms, etc... If you are on private property be sure to ask permission.

2. Decide how you are going to play. We found a site with some paintball info here:

How to Play

3. Some of you may already own gear, but those of you who are like us might like a cheaper alternative try using a slingshot rather then a gun. You will still want some goggles to protect your eyes.

4. Have fun, play nice, and let us know how it went and what worked for you!!

Love Note

2009-04-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Write your sweetie a love note and leave it somewhere creative. ( lunch box, mirror, any place they will stumble onto it.)

And The Winner Is...

2009-04-20T19:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations HEATHER for winning our drawing!! Thank You to everyone who submitted feedback, it has been very helpful!

Keep Love Brimming

2009-04-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

"To keep your marriage brimming with love in the wedding cup, whenever you're wrong, admit it; whenever you're right shut up."

-Ogden Nash

Better Than Capt. Crunch

2009-04-19T20:01:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Plan a nice breakfast for your sweetie that is out of the ordinary. (Save it for a morning that works for you)

The Game and Snack Date in Under and Hour

2009-04-18T10:50:00.001-07:00

A GOOD FRIEND SAID HER AND HER HUBBY LIKE TO PLAY A GAME AND EAT A FUN SNACK AS A QUICK"DATE" AFTER THEY PUT THEIR KIDS TO BED. THIS DATE IS EXACTLY THAT AND WILL WORK FOR WHATEVER STAGE OF LIFE YOU ARE IN.

*
THE PLAN:

1. Our friend says one of them picks the game and the other picks the snack. Here is our idea if you need one!

The Snack:

We spent a fun night with some friends and ate this...

Red Grapes
Almonds
Parmesan Cheese

This was the perfect snack. The key was to eat each item together, they claimed you got the "Ratatouille" effect when tasting the food. ( You would have to have seen Ratatouille to know what I am talking about)

The Game:

We played this game together a few weeks ago! It was a blast. If you are looking for a new game to try this is a great one...

2. This date is meant to be simple to plan, so don't overdue it and have fun!

Let us know what games you like to play and we will post them!

Guide To A Happy Marraige - Just for Fun!

2009-04-17T20:15:00.001-07:00

Hand in Hand

2009-04-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Make it a point to hold your sweeties hand today.

Romance

2009-04-15T20:55:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Make a point to do one thing today that your sweetie would find romantic.

Today Is The Day

2009-04-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Make a list of the attributes you always wanted to bring to your relationship and try them out today.

Lets Go Fly A Kite!

2009-04-14T19:42:00.000-07:00

WE HAD A CHANCE THIS WEEKEND TO RE-LIVE THE FUN OF FLYING A KITE! IT WAS SO FUN!! THIS DATE SHOULD BE A BLAST ENJOYING THE SUNSHINE AND THE GOOD OLD DAYS OF KITE FLYING!

*
THE PLAN:

1. This date is super easy, it can take place anywhere you like. A back yard, a park, etc... So the first thing to do is pick a location!

2. If you need a kite we found a ton on Amazon ranging from 4-over 100$

3. Get to it! Have fun, takes some pics, and make a few more memories together!

Surprise!

2009-04-13T20:50:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Leave a surprise under your sweeties pillow!

Hugs

2009-04-13T19:38:00.000-07:00

"You can’t wrap love in a box, but you can wrap a person in a hug"

- Anonymous

10 Reasons

2009-04-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Make a list of 10 reasons why you would do it all over again. (your relationship, that is)

Happy Easter

2009-04-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Create something fun for your honey for Easter. This does not have to be big. Here are two ideas:

1) Write a list of things your honey does that makes you happy and let him or her go on their own little hunt looking for your sweet notes.

2) Get them a bag of their favorite Easter treats.

Just Relax...

2009-04-08T20:46:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Do whatever it takes to make your sweetie comfortable today.

Three Married Couples - 142 years of experience!

2009-04-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

What Did You Say?

2009-04-07T20:44:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Be a good listener today.

Keepin Up With The Jones's Date Night

2009-04-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

THIS DATE IS DESIGNED FOR AN EVENING AT HOME,
PREPARING A TRADITIONAL JONES FAMILY DINNER AND DESSERT TOGETHER,THEN DOING WHAT WE TYPICALLY DO ON AN EVENING AT HOME DATE, PLAY CARDS! WE WILL TEACH YOU ONE OF OUR FAVORITE GAMES!
*
THE PLAN

Get the following ingredients:

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

CHICKEN BREAST OR TENDERLOINS (equivalent of 2 lg breasts)

1 pkg CREAM CHEESE 2 sm. cans CREAM OF CHICKEN SOUP 1 can GREEN CHILIES 1 can OLIVES 1 pkg FLOUR TORILLAS

STRAWBERRY RHUBARB PIE
PIE CRUST WITH TOP
1 pkg STRAWBERRY FLAVORED JUNKIT DESSERT ( you can find this with the jello)
1 CONTAINER OF STRAWBERRIES
2 C RHUBARB
SUGAR

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO FIND RHUBARB THIS IS JOSH"S PICK ON PIES

BANANA CREAM PIE
TWO PIE CRUSTS ( no top)
1 lg. pkg INSTANT VANILLA PUDDING
1pt. HEAVY WHIPPING CREAM
VANILLA EXTRACT
ALMOND EXTRACT
POWDER SUGAR
8 BANANAS
WHIPPED CREAM

VEGGIES

3 GREEN BELL PEPPERS
1 sm ONION
GARLIC POWDER
SALT
BUTTER

Make preparations for your children (if you have them of course) We generally put ours to bed at 7:00 most nights so we skip this step

Because of time we are going to need both sets of hands in the kitchen. One of you will do dessert while the other does dinner, so begin by having a good old fashioned argument over who does what.

Follow the recipes:

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

1. Cook chicken and cut into bite size pieces.

2. While chicken is cooking, slice olives.

3. Blend softened cream cheese and cream of chicken soup together.

4. Add green chilies, and olives to the mixture.

5. Add chicken when ready.

6. Fill each tortilla with about 2 scoop's of filling, roll, and place in a 9x13 pan.

7. Top with remainder of filling.

8. Bake at 350 for about 35- 40 min. TOP with 2 cups grated cheddar cheese about 10 min before taking it out of the oven.

STRAWBERRY RHUBARB PIE

1. Cut strawberries and 2 cups of rhubarb into bite size pieces.

2. Place rhubarb in a pan with about a T of water and cook with 1/4-1/2 C sugar till softened.

3. In a medium size pan prepare strawberry Junkit as instructed on the box for pie glaze.

4. Combine strawberries, rhubard, and junkit. Pour into a uncooked pie crust. Put top on and
pinch the sides together. Poke holes in top.

5. Place on a cookie sheet to avoid a drip mess and bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes. Crust will be a golden brown.

6. Cool and serve with whipped cream.

BANANA CREAM PIE

1. This will make 2 pies. Cook pie crusts as directed.

2. Whip cream and about 3/4tsp vanilla and 1tsp almond flavoring.

3. Add about 2-3 T powder sugar.

4. Add pudding and a little bit less milk then it calls for in the pie filling recipe on the box. Mix well,

5. Slice bananas and place in the bottom of the crust. (you will not use all the bananas yet)

6. Pour filling into crust.

7. Top with more bananas and whipped cream. Chill.

VEGGIES

1. Slice bell peppers and onion.

2. Melt about a T butter in a medium sized pan.

3. Saute veggies on med. heat till tender.

4. Sprinkle with desired amount of garlic powder and salt. Serve.

Have fun cooking together, this is a great time to talk!

After dinner sit down for a fun game of cards. This is a simple one, but it is one of our favorites!

TENS:

1. You will need a full deck of face cards, but take out the Jokers!
2. Dealer will deal each person 10 cards face down.
3. Do not look at them. Place them face down in 2 rows of 5. They will be numbered as follows.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

4. The person who did not deal will go first. After this round who ever won the previous round will go first.
5. You will have a draw pile made up of the remaining cards and a discard pile.
6. Draw one card from the pile. If you draw a 1-10 you put the card in its designated spot in your 2 rows of 5. The card under it you will then put in its spot. For example. If you draw a 10 you put it in the 10 spot. You pick up the card that was faced down in the 10 spot. Say that card was a 4, you will put it in the 4 spot, and so on. You do this until you can't go any further, then you discard your card. The next player may pick the top card from either pile.( discard or draw pile) 7. Once one of your spots are filled, they are filled. So if you were to pick up or draw another 10 or 4 you have to discard them and it is the other players turn.
8. Kings are wild. So it can fill any spot. Say it filled the 5 spot and you draw a 5 on another turn. You can then move your king to another free spot and fill your 5 spot with the 5. There is only one special rule with kings. Say you place a king on the 3 spot and the card face down is a 3 you have to discard that 3. You cannot replace the king with that 3 to move your king somewhere else and keep playing.
9. Jacks and Queens are garbage cards. They have to be discarded.
10. The Ace will be your 1 card.
11. Who ever fills all there #'s first wins the round.
12. The winner will be delt one less card on the next round.
13. The goal is to get down to Zero cards. Whoever reaches Zero first wins the game!

We hope you have an Awesome night!

Smells Good!

2009-04-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Cook your sweetie a special dinner tonight. Something new or one of their favorite dishes.

Gems And Flowers

2009-04-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

"If instead of a gem, or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give."

- George MacDonald

Ring, Ring...

2009-04-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Take time to call your sweetie and see how they are doing today.

Date In Under An Hour

2009-04-03T17:41:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCING OUR DATE IN UNDER AND HOUR, DATE IDEAS. THESE DATES ARE GEARED TOWARDS THE COUPLE WHO MAY ONLY HAVE AN HOUR OR LESS BEFORE BED TO SPEND SOME QUALITY TIME TOGETHER.

READY, SET, GO...

Dream Vacation Date

THIS DATE INCLUDES PLANNING YOUR DREAM VACATION TOGETHER. AFTER A BUSY DAY IT IS A GREAT WAY TO FIND A LITTLE R&R AND SQUEEZE IN SOME FUN CONVERSATION PLANNING A FUN GET AWAY.

*
THE PLAN:

1. Fill in the following list:

Where (Local, Overseas, etc...)
What (Cruise, road trip, resorts, sight seeing, etc...)
When (What time of year, is it a holiday, or special occasion)
Why (Why are you here and what are you going to do. Map out the highlights of the trip)

This last step is for those who like to make dreams come true. We have fun just talking and dreaming about would be trips, but for those who want to take it the next step, this is for you.

How (Come up with an achievable plan on how you will make this trip a reality.)

Don't Forget To Pray

2009-04-02T20:30:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Remember your sweetie in your prayers today.

Nice Try Romeo!

2009-04-02T19:33:00.000-07:00

Face it guys as much as we would like to perceive ourselves as the Rico Sauvé chick magnet most of us fall short, usually on our face. I’ve been told that I wouldn’t know a romantic thought if I had one, but I still try, despite my failings, to wax poetic on occasion. I know from the teachings of my mother however, and the persistent reminders of my sweet wife, the ladies still like the gentleman side of their husbands to show their face now and then. Here then is the challenge for the boys.

You will for the next 24 hours open every door for your lady like she was an invalid.
Now you will still get the door for her, but you will also treat her like the queen she is and wait upon her every need.
Continuing 1 & 2 now you need to praise her for every thing she does. (I don’t care if the toast is burnt, it’s the best burnt toast you’ve ever had) Thank you goes along way.
It is said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, the way to a women’s is through her nose. Buy her flowers today. (5.00 tulips or a bouquet from the garden can be just as special as roses)
This one will be hard for the uncreative like me, but you are going to write your sweet heart a love poem. No one is expecting you to be Robert Frost or Edgar Allen Poe, just write something for your lady and she will treasure it for a multitude of reasons. Here is a format to help get the creative juices flowing.

You can use almost any thing in the good old roses are red format.

Your lips are red, your eyes are blue

These are only two of the reasons I love you

Your lips are red, your blushes are too

When I think of your smile, my heart warms up too

You butt is wide, your teeth are black

When you wear shorts I want to yak (don’t use this, this is going in the wrong direction)

When I first saw you I said pa

Is she a cousin to you or ma (this is already going bad)

Try this

You embody such heavenly grace

Your wit, your charm and your beautiful face

Your eyes dance with joy, you light up a room

Life with you is a flower in bloom

This is a week of challenges for the guys, it will be fun and challenging, but try and make the first three habitual and do the other two as often as you can.

Where Are My Manners

2009-04-01T20:30:00.001-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Will you please remember to say please and thank you when speaking to your sweetie today. Thank You!

Enter To Win...

2009-04-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

ENTER TO WIN A FREE GIFT CARD!!!

We want your opinion! What do you like about our site? What would you like to see? What has been your favorite date so far? Just leave us a "love note" with your name, e-mail and what you think. Your comments will not be posted, we will keep your information completely confidential, it will only be used to contact you if you win our drawing. Plus if you have any great date ideas, cool quotes, or suggestions for articles let us know. Please be honest in your feedback, everyone is invited to participate so tell your friends and family. Make your comments by Saturday April 18th, the winner will be announced the following Monday.

Don't You Look Nice

2009-03-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Dress to the nine's for your sweet today.

Yum!

2009-03-30T20:30:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Surprise your sweetie with their favorite dessert.

From The Voice of Experience

2009-03-30T19:17:00.000-07:00

"YOU DON'T LOVE A MAN WHEN YOU FIRST MARRY HIM. YOU ARE INFATUATED WITH HIM AND LEARN TO LOVE HIM AS YOU SPEND A LIFETIME WITH HIM."

- Ellen Jones

We spent last Saturday with Josh's Grandparents. We had a wonderful and very insightful visit. I found out that in a few months they will be celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. I had the opportunity early in our marriage to spend a great deal of time with them and have always admired the friendship, kindness, and respect they show each other. They are very sweet. Josh's Grandma mentioned a conversation she had with Josh's brother who is soon to be married. He and his fiance had asked her what advice she could give them. This is what she related to us that she had told them:

Don't criticize. " Every time you criticize your spouse they get over it, but it leaves a scar."
Have good communication.
Work together and play together. "Even if I couldn't be of any help outside, he still wants me there, just to be with him."
Don't lose your respect for one another.

Photo pillow created by Jean Jones owner of grandmaslace.com
a beautiful quilt shop!

Beauty

2009-03-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

Marriage is beautiful when beauty is looked for and cultivated.

- Gordon B. Hinckley

Opposites Attract Day!

2009-03-29T20:30:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Determine one thing you do in your relationship that you don't like (for ex. yelling or faultfinding.) and try to do the opposite today.

Where You Goin?

2009-03-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

"IF YOU FAIL TO PLAN, YOU PLAN TO FAIL."

- Thomas S. Monson

Where do you want to be in a year with your relationship, in five years, in twenty? Knowing were you want to go is the first step in getting there, if you don't know what you want from your relationship how will you know when you have achieved it, or anything for that matter. Sit down and write what you hope to have in your relationship, these are the important elements that you need to reach your destination. Brainstorm and put everything down, there is no wrong answers at this point, its in the writing process sometimes that your best ideas will come. After you have written down a few things try to make a plan for getting to your goal. Most people would not start a long road trip without some kind of destination in mind and most likely a map or some direction of how to get there, but many of us start relationships and even marriage with no idea of where its going to go, but we go along for the ride anyway.
Make your plan as a couple and start with something achievable, and don't reinvent the wheel. Build on your strengths, don't be critical of mistakes or failures, and never give up. Even the greatest of eagles must learn to flap its wings before it can fly.

XXooXOxO

2009-03-26T20:31:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Kiss in passing today.

The Are You Game? Date Idea...

2009-03-26T14:43:00.001-07:00

IT'S TIME TO BRANCH OUT AND TRY A NEW BOARD GAME! THIS FUN DATE NIGHT WILL TAKE A TYPICAL DATE AND ADD A BIT OF VARIETY TO IT BY TRYING SOMETHING NEW.

*
THE PLAN:

1. Beg, borrow, or buy a game you have never played. We just tried a game called Blokus the other night and it was a blast. It happens to be the top seller for board games on Amazon right now so we know we weren't the only ones who liked it!

2. Find a great spot to play. A night at home after a long week is always fun or if you have been cooped up try a park if the weather permits. Its that easy, have fun trying something new together. Good Luck!

Fault Free

2009-03-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Avoid all fault finding today!

Foot Rub

2009-03-24T20:27:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Give your sweetie a foot rub!

10+ Things

2009-03-23T20:25:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Write a list of 10 or more things you like about your sweetie and give it to them!

Anxious Concern

2009-03-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

"I am satisfied that a happy marriage is not so much a matter of romance as it is an anxious concern for the comfort and well-being of one’s companion."

- Gordon B. Hinckley

Chore Day!

2009-03-22T19:05:00.000-07:00

CHALLENGE:

Do one chore/job that you consider to be your sweeties today! (ex. take out the trash or wash the dishes)

JOIN THE CHALLENGE!

2009-03-20T06:09:00.000-07:00

We are excited to introduce the DAILY CHALLENGE! We challenge you to join us in one act of kindness towards your sweetie each day. We believe it is the small and simple things we do that make all the difference. Are you up for the challenge?!
We will post Mon - Fri. Look for our post the night before to give you a little heads up. The key is to give without expectation. In other words don't expect your sweetie to give in return, just smother yourself in the joy of giving!

Ready, Set, Go!

CHALLENGE:

Take time to smile at your sweetie each time you pass today :)

Running

2009-03-19T06:19:00.001-07:00

We have talked in previous articles a bit about good communication in relationships. Time is a huge factor in communication. And with the busy schedules we all have, often pulling us in different directions, time for good communication in our marriages and relationships can be difficult. Recently we have discovered a new way for us to find time to talk. We decided to start running together.
A year ago I would have never dreamed we would run together. Often as we drove by other runners, Josh would mention in passing "I'd rather be fat!" But with the big 30 coming up I have noticed a change of heart. I have laughingly expressed my concern about him having a midlife crisis because the other day I actually heard him say, "this is better then getting fat!" Well whatever the reason for the change of heart, it has been good. We have found that running together has killed two birds with one stone. We have found a good way to get some exercise and an even better way to find some time in our busy routine to talk.
This takes a bit of planning and creativity on both parts. Josh is in school and works almost full time. I am busy with 2 different school schedules for our kids and working part time at home, but as we plan some time a couple times a week, we have found this to be a very good time to catch up with each other.
With schedules constantly changing we know this will not last forever and we will have to come up with a new plan, I am sure it will be the same for you, but we encourage you to try some new and creative ways to find time to communicate this week. Let us know what you come up with and what you already do. We would love to hear your ideas and I am sure your ideas will spark a plan in others. Have a great week!

- Natasha

Candlelight Romance Date Idea

2009-03-18T05:57:00.000-07:00

THIS IS A TRADITIONAL CANDLELIGHT DINNER DATE NIGHT MADE EASY BY US! COOK A MOUTH WATERING MEAL AND CREATE A ROMANTIC MOOD TOGETHER OR MAKE IT A SURPRISE!
*
THE PLAN:

1. We have everything you need to make this date night a success! The first thing you will need to do is plan your meal. Decide if this is going to be a suprise for your sweety or if you are going to prepare it together!

We found some perfect recipes, from drink, appetizer to dessert! They look divine! Just click on any of the following links:

Raspberry-Lemonade

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms - Strawberry Romaine Salad

Creamy Garlic Pasta - Green Beans - Bacon And Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Chocolate Cheesecake Strawberries

2. Set the mood! Mood is everything, from the candles to the music. Create a mood that works for you. Josh Groben, Celine Dion, Alabama, or Byan Adams all create a great romantic mood.

3. Have a great time!

Marriage

2009-03-16T06:23:00.000-07:00

"Happy marriages begin when we marry the ones we love, and they blossom when we love the ones we marry."

- Tom Mullen

The Never Say Never Date Idea

2009-03-14T16:36:00.001-07:00

THIS DATE IDEA IS VERY FLEXIBLE. YOU ARE GOING TO CREATE A NEW MEMORY TOGETHER DOING SOMETHING YOU HAVE NEVER DONE!
*

THE PLAN:

1. Pick and activity that one or both of you have never done. I (Natasha) discovered last night that Josh has never been on a roller coaster! I am so excited to plan a day at a theme park and share that first memory with him.

Here are some ideas both big and small of things you may have never done:

have a picnic
watch a black and white movie
swim in a lake
go fishing
watch the stars come out
go sky diving
go snorkeling
watch the sunset
go horseback riding
roast marshmallows on a fork over the stove and make Smores
go to a rodeo
watch a new TV show
try a new restaurant
play laser tag
have a paintball fight
fly a kite
have a water balloon fight
try a new board/card game
invite new friends over for a double date
roller skate
make a sandcastle
go to a hockey game
go ice skating
arm wrestle
watch a musical
watch a western
go to a play
write a poem for each other
go to a concert
take picture together at the mall
go to a hot springs
go to a theme park
go miniature golfing
rent a tandem bicycle and go for a ride
para sailing
read a new book together
play twister
have a candlelight dinner

2. Tell us what you did, we would love to hear what you came up with!

Make It A Date!

2009-03-09T19:47:00.001-07:00

THANK YOU MONICA FOR LEAVING US A "LOVE NOTE" ABOUT THIS NEW MOVIE!

THE PLAN:
Spend an evening cuddled up watching this inspirational show! Hold hands, share a blanket, etc...

FIRE PROOF TRAILER:

www.fireproofthemovie.com

Money In Marraige

2009-03-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

How important is money in marriage?? The answer according to Marvin J. Ashton author of the booklet "One For the Money: Guide to Family Finances" is, tremendously important! He states that, "The American Bar Association has indicated that 89% of all divorces can be traced to quarrels and accusations over money. Others have estimated that 75% of all divorces result from clashes over finances. Some professional counselors indicate that four out of five families are strapped with serious money problems." With these statistics in mind and with the current state of the economy, I am confident that there are many couples who could use a few helpful tips in this regard.
Marvin J. Ashton states that "money management between husband and wife should be on a partner basis, with both parties having a voice..." This does not necessarily mean couples have to add every penny up together, but they do need to implement a plan of how they will manage their money in a way that works in their individual circumstances.
Gordon B. Hinckley, former president of a world wide church, while speaking to married couples said, "An extravagant husband or wife can jeopardize any marriage. I think it is a good principle that each have some freedom and independence with everyday, necessary expenditures, while at the same time always discussing and consulting and agreeing on large expenditures. There would be fewer rash decisions, fewer unwise investments, fewer losses, fewer bankruptcies if husbands and wives would counsel together on such matters and unitedly seek counsel from others." From our experience, following this advice has extinguished many would be fires in our home.
Often when we think of financial problems we think of a lack of income. Though the need to create more income in some circumstances is very relevant, often how much we are spending is more relevant. Marvin J. Ashton states," Financial peace of mind is not determined by how much we make, but is dependent upon how much we spend." With this in mind we can see the great need for couples to live within their means.
Society has made living on credit a very simple task. Yet how quickly living on credit can cripple us and take years to resolve. Marvin J. Ashton says that "with the exception of buying a home, paying for education, and making other vital investments, avoid debt and the resulting finance charges. "
Using a budget may help couples live within the amount of money they make every month and avoid unnecessary debt. If you are currently in debt, coming up with a plan to eliminate debt can help you get on the right track. No matter your circumstances, start today doing one small thing and the results in the long run will be tremendous. For those who feel they have succeeded in this financial game, let us know what has worked for you. We would love to take a page out of your book. Below are a few helpful tools to get you started with creating a budget and debt elimination plan. We wish you the best of luck as you tackle your finances together.

BUDGET WORKSHEET

DEBT ELIMINATION CALENDER

HOW SOON CAN I PAY OFF MY DEBT CALCULATOR

SOURCES:
Marvin J. Ashton; One For the Money: Guide To Family Finances
Click HERE for more info.
President Gordon B. Hinkley; Cornerstones of a Happy Home; Satellite broadcast, 29 Jan. 1984

Treasure

2009-03-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

"Treasure the love you receive above all. It will survive long after your gold and good health have vanished."

- Og Mandino

The Eating Out With A Twist Date

2009-03-07T07:49:00.001-08:00

THIS FUN DATE IDEA ENHANCES THE TRADITIONAL DINNER DATE! YOU MIGHT FIND THAT EATING OUT WITH OUR LITTLE TWIST ADDS JUST THE RIGHT FLAVORS YOU WERE LOOKING FOR!
*
THE PLAN:

1. Choose a restaurant! We have a few favorites! We use to love going to the Hard Hat Steakhouse & Grill during some of our college days! If your in the area, Check it out!

2.The Twist!
How well do you know your sweeties taste buds?? This is the Twist!! You are going to order what you think your better half would order! Include the works if you can. Drink, appetizer, salad/soup, main course, and dessert!

3. This may sound like a simple twist, but we have a feeling there will be a few more giggles and memories made around table that night. Have fun and be a good sport!!

Unselfishness

2009-03-06T06:18:00.000-08:00

"LOVE IS LIKE A FLOWER, AND, LIKE THE BODY, IT NEEDS CONSTANT FEEDING."

-SPENCER W. KIMBALL

President Spencer W. Kimball, former president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints said, "Every divorce is the result of selfishness on the part of one or the other or both parties to a marriage contract. Someone is thinking of self - comforts, conveniences, freedoms, luxuries, or ease." President Kimball states that when two people marry they must eliminate the "I" and the "my" and substitute it for "we" and "our." As many of us discovered shortly after the honeymoon, marriage isn't always the blissful fairytale of happily ever after. Many couples experience financial shortcomings, sickness, and many other struggles. President Kimball shares that even in such times marriages can be successful as long as selfishness does not enter in. He said that during the depression of the 1930's the divorce rate actually dropped. He states that," Adversity can cement relationships which prosperity can destroy." As we continue on in our marriages we will not only encounter circumstantial struggles, but also many struggles that will naturally come when two people with different personalities and experiences come together. These can be as simple as how you squeeze a tube of tooth paste. President Kimball says, "For every friction, there is a cause; and whenever there is unhappiness, each should search self to find the cause or at least the portion of the cause which originated in that self." I read recently a story in the book "Foundations For a Happier Marriage," of a women who in hopes to strengthen her marriage began to sacrifice without any hope of return. She had been married for twenty years, but her marriage was without much affection or commitment. Out of desperation she started to express more fondness for her husband and serve him through small acts of kindness. She became frustrated when she did not see any change in her husband after all her efforts, but found that she had changed. She said she felt that she had come alive and felt happier about herself than she had in years, so she continued and was soon able to sacrifice without expecting any return from her husband. As time went on she began to feel calmer and happier in her marriage. All a result of her giving more unselfishly! The story goes on to say that in time her husband admitted to his own shortcomings and he too began to show more commitment. Though it took time, this is a perfect example of the how unselfishness can change any marriage even one that has been stale for twenty years. President Kimball says that, "Love is like a flower, and, like the body, it needs constant feeding." A flower he says would die without food and water, " And so love, also, cannot be expected to last forever unless it is continually fed with portions of love, the manifestation of esteem and admiration, and expressions of gratitude, and the consideration of unselfishness."

SOURCES:
Spencer W. Kimball in 1976 Devotional Speeches of the Year, pg. 142-155
A. Lynn Scoresby, Foundations For a Happier Marriage, pg. 32-34

Whose The Dart Champion Date Night!

2009-03-05T06:28:00.000-08:00

THIS DATE INCLUDES A NIGHT OF FUN THROWING DARTS, TRYING A VARIETY OF DART GAMES!

THE PLAN:

1) Click on the following link to find the rules for some great dart games! There are tons to choose from:

Dart Games

2) Decide where to play. You could plan the date for at home, but we figured it wasn't to unpractical on a nice summer night to throw a nail in a tree to hang your dart board! ( Just make sure the area is clear for throwing pointed objects!)

3) As always, what's a date without some food! Try a new recipe. Here are a few we found:

How to Date Your Spouse

2009-03-04T06:35:00.000-08:00

Purchase your own copy at the following link:

How To Date Your Spouse

Love Is Not Blind

2009-03-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

" Love is not blind- it sees more, not less. But because it sees more, it is willing to see less."

- Julius Gordon

Go Hiking Date Idea!

2009-02-27T07:43:00.000-08:00

THIS DATE INCLUDES A DAY OUT TAKING IN SOME FRESH AIR AND FUN WHILE HIKING!

We realize that some people, us included, are still seeing winter out their windows, but what a better way to kick off spring together than to get out and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. If your backyard still looks like mine, (A bit of snow) then this date will have to be put into action later.

*
THE PLAN:

1 Pick a location! If an actual "hiking" location isn't feasible, find a fun place around town to take a nice walk.

2 Plan the trip. How long, how far, what to wear, ( If you plan to hike in the mountain be prepared for any weather) what to eat and drink...

We found some trail mix recipes. You can't experience hiking without trail mix...

CLICK ON AN IMAGE:

THINGS TO PACK:
( This is mainly a few reminders if this is going to be a big excursion in the mountains)

Map
Compass
Flashlight
Sunglasses
Waterproof Matches
Whistle
Pocket Knife
Candle
Protective Clothing
Minimum First Aid
Extra Food
Toilet paper/ Hand Sanitizer

SAFETY TIPS:
click on the following link:

Safety Tips for the Out-of-Doors

4 Have Fun! Some friends of ours went hiking last weekend. It looked like they ended up having fun even though they didn't make it to the top. I thought it would be fun to share their day with you!

ONE FINE DAY...

Alan's not much of a hiker, but on Saturday I desperately needed to steal him away from his studies. Thankfully he was willing to go along with me because hiking is something I LOVE.

So we went to Sugarloaf Ridge Park in Sonoma. I had been there years ago but I forgot how steep and how long the hike was. He started out strong and confident. . .

But became slightly agitated-- and winded-- as the hike became harder and harder.

We enjoyed the scenery and wildlife. . .

But let's face it-- my man currently spends most of his life at a desk and wasn't ready for what I dished out.

But he promises that when he's in better shape, we'll go back there and complete the hike (we made it half way to the top). He said, and I quote, "My body isn't ready to do things that require basic fitness, because I don't have basic fitness. Put that in your blog."

There's still time to change him. I will my friends. I will.

Well despite how winded Alan claimed to be it looked like they were having fun! Have fun on your hike. Tell us about the hot hiking spot you found and how your date went. Good Luck!

One-On-One Time In Marraige

2009-02-25T06:35:00.000-08:00

Dr. Stephen R. Covey, respected leadership authority, family expert, professor, organizational consultant, founder of the Covey Leadership Center, and co-chairman of Franklin Covey Company, shares in his book, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families" the value of one on one time with his wife and the effect it has had in their marriage. He said that for many years they made sure to share one on one time with each other each day. This time included time away from phones, children, office and home and other people to distract them. They would take a ride together were they would catch up with the other and discussed issues or concerns. When they could not be together they would talk on the phone several times a day. Dr. Covey states, " That rich communication, that bonding, builds our marriage and strengthens it so that we go into the family arena with deep love and respect for each other and with a tremendous sense of unity that helps us pull together instead of apart."
Each of us are at a different stage in our relationships, but regardless what stage we are in, finding the time for "rich communication" seems essential to maintain a healthy, happy, and successful relationship. You might have to be very creative in how you find this time. Dr. Covey shares that some of his married friends enjoyed this time by planning a weekly date night. They would also go away together once or twice a year. He also shares a story about a couple with older children who three or four nights a week went to their bedroom an hour before the kids went to bed and spent time talking, listening to music, watching TV, and so on. The woman in this relationship found that this made a huge difference in their family life, she found that they no longer let their needs supersede their kids needs when they got home from work because they knew they would have that time together later. She found that this time was more effective for them than a weekly date night out where they found that interruptions such as a waiter or running into friends interfered with this time.
Josh and I are in a stage where our children go to bed early so we have time to ourselves in the evenings. We have found that besides taking a night to experiment new date ideas, taking another evening or two to chat for about 30 minutes helps. I mentioned in a previous article Dr. Scoresby's book, " Foundations for a Happier Marriage." In this book he mentions that the amount of talking and listening in a relationship differs for each couple, but to be happy each couple needs to find a suitable amount for them. Josh and I have noticed that after a good evening of talking we are content to go a few days before we need that more structured time together again.
From my insights and studies it seems that this idea of "rich communication" and "one-on-one" time in marriage is essential. Be creative in your date ideas and in how you find this time. Remember that is is often by the small and simple things we do that great things happen. -Natasha

Sources: The 7 habits of Highly Effective Families, Stephen R. Covey; Foundations for a Happier Marriage, A. Lynn Scoresby.

Lift

2009-02-24T06:49:00.001-08:00

"Thee lift me and I"ll lift thee, and we will ascend together."

-Quaker Proverb

Successful Marriage

2009-02-17T07:15:00.000-08:00

This morning I was reading a book my great grandmother gave me a few years ago, " May Peace Be with You,"by author, professional speaker, and seminar presenter, Lloyd D. Newell. The message entitled Successful Marriage was fantastic! If I thought I could do it justice I would have summarized it, but the following is as found on pg. 195 of his book. Enjoy!

"Perhaps the greatest social change from our parents' generation until today has been the dramatic rise in the divorce rate. A recent study showed that more than half of all first marriages now end in divorce.( "The American Family, 1992," Fortune, Aug. 10, 1992, p. 43) Certainly our world is different from the world our parents grew up in. High stress, demanding professions, and conflicting schedules all work together to create conflict in our lives.
But, while lifestyles may change, the blueprint for successful and lasting marriages remains the same.
David O. McKay listed three ideals that contribute to the success of a marriage. He first listed loyalty - to put each other first and foremost in all aspects of a marriage. Second, to have self- control. When harsh words or critical remarks come to mind, show restraint. The result is greater love and peace in the home. And third, courtesy - to treat each other every day as though you were still dating. (In Hugh B. Brown, You and Your Marriage [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1960], pp.96-97.)
Richard L. Evans wrote: "Marriage requires the giving and keeping of confidences, the sharing of thoughts and feelings, unfailing respect and understanding, and a frank and gentle communication." ( "Message of Inspiration," Church News, Aug. 15 1992, p. 2 )
These ideals sound so simple and easy to put into practice, but each day marriages fail because the simple and seemingly insignificant things are overlooked.
There is no such thing as a marriage that can't be strengthened, and the best time to start is today. Take a moment to say, "I love you." Fix a favorite dinner. Send flowers for no reason. Write a love note. Read a poem together or watch your favorite movie. Tell each other you'd do it all over again.
Yes, it is possible to have a marriage that lasts in today's world. And a successful marriage isn't always strengthened by the big things. More often, it's strengthened by the little things."
Wasn't that Awesome?! I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. Did you catch his date/romance ideas in the end? Give it a try! I wish you the best of luck this week at "Keepin Romance Alive!"

-Natasha

SOURCE: "May Peace Be with You, Messages From 'The Spoken Word' Given By Lloyd D. Newell." p.195.

The Old-y But Goody Date Idea!

2009-02-16T16:35:00.000-08:00

THIS DATE INCLUDES SNUGGLING UP TO WATCH AN "OLD-Y BUT GOODY" MOVIE WHILE MUNCHING ON SOME POPCORN OR SNACK OF CHOICE. YUM!
*
THE PLAN:

1 Choose a show of course! We created you a list of some good ones if you need some ideas:)

His Girl Friday
Harvey
The King and I

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers

Arsenic and Old Lace
Casablanca

2 Plan your snack. We found some super yummy popcorn recipes for you to try. Just click on the following links to get the recipes.

Butterscotch Cashew Popcorn

Chocolate Popcorn

Cheesy Barbecued Popcorn

Peanut Butter Popcorn

Caramel Popcorn

Pizza Popcorn

Spicy Cajun Popcorn

Pink Elephant Popcorn

3 Enjoy!

Love

2009-02-16T07:55:00.000-08:00

"One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: that word is LOVE."

-Sophocles

Dancing With the Stars Date Night!

2009-02-13T16:17:00.000-08:00

THIS DATE INCLUDES THE TWO OF YOU DANCING AND LOOKING LIKE THE COUPLE ABOVE BY THE TIME YOU ARE DONE. (THE SMILING PART ANYWAY!)
*
THE PLAN:

1 If you are a left foot, never do it dancer, or want to spice it up with some new steps, the first step is to read the following how to's....

HOW TO TANGO

Step1

Face your partner and stand closer together than you would in most other ballroom dances - close enough that your torsos are touching.

Step2

If you're the leader, place your right hand on the middle of your partner's lower back. Extend your left hand out to your side with your arm bent and grasp your partner's right hand in a loose grift. Your partner should place her left hand on your right shoulder and place her right hand lightly in your palm with her right elbow bent.

Step3

On the first beat, walk forward slowly with your left foot, placing down your heel first and then your toes. Your partner will mirror each of your movements on every beat throughout the dance - in this case, moving her right foot backward, landing her toes and then her heel.

Step4

On the second beat, step forward slowly with your right foot so that it moves past your left. You should feel like you are slinking forward.

Step5

On the third beat, step forward quickly with your left foot, then immediately slide your right foot quickly to the right side and shift your weight to that foot.

Step6

On the fourth beat, bring your left foot slowly to your right, leaving your left leg slightly bent as your feet come together. Your weight should still be on your right foot.

Step7

Now, shift your weight to your left foot and do a right forward rock step: While making a half-turn clockwise, step forward quickly on your right foot, and then quickly shift your weight back to your left foot. With your right foot, slowly step forward to complete the half turn.

Step8

Bring your feet together, bring your left foot up next to your right and repeat steps 3 through 7.

TIP
Keep in mind that your feet barely leave the floor as you dance.

SOURCE: www.ehow.com/how_4304_tango.html

HOW TO WALTZ

Step1

Get into position by facing your partner. If you are the leader, place your right hand on your partner's waist slightly around the back and extend your left hand to your side with your elbow bent and your palm raised, facing her. With that hand, grasp your partner's right hand in a loose grip, and make sure your partner has her left hand on your right shoulder, with her elbow bent. She should mirror your movements.

Step2

On the first beat, step forward gracefully with your left foot. Your partner should follow your lead by doing the opposite of what you do on each beat - in this case, stepping back with her right foot.

Step3

On the second beat, step forward and to the right with your right foot. Trace an upside-down letter L in the air with your foot as you do this.

Step4

Shift your weight to your right foot. Keep your left foot stationary.

Step5

On the third beat, slide your left foot over to your right and stand with your feet together.

Step6

On the fourth beat, step back with your right foot.

Step7

On the fifth beat, step back and to the left with your left foot, this time tracing a backward L. Shift your weight to your left foot.

Step8

On the final beat, slide your right foot toward your left until your feet are together; now you're ready to start over with your left foot.

Step9

Repeat steps 2 through 8 turning your and your partner's orientation slowly to the left by slightly varying the placement of your feet.

Tip

It helps to count as you go - 'one, two, three; one, two, three' - placing the emphasis on the 'one' as you count.

Practice to a slow waltz until you become comfortable with the moves.

SOURCE: www.ehow.com/how_4302_waltz.html

HOW TO COUNTRY TWO STEP

Step1

The count of a two-step is four: quick, quick, slow, slow. Listen to the beats in the music: quick, quick, slow, slow--quick, quick, slow, slow.

Step2

Facing your partner, Leader, put your right hand around your partner’s waist, and hold her right hand with your left. Partner, put your left hand on his shoulder and hold his left hand.

Step3

Leader, raise left arm with partner’s hand at a 45 to 90 degree angle.
Leader, start with your left foot; follower, start with your right.

Step4

Leader, step first with your left, to your left slightly, then quickly follow with your right next to, but slightly behind your left. That is the “quick, quick” of the count. Count: left-right—LLEEFFTT-RRIIGGHHTT Quick-Quick-SLOOOW-SLOOOW.

Step5

Next, Leader, step slowly left with your left foot once, then step slowly with your right foot slightly to the right.

Step6

Leader, begin again with your left foot on the next “quick-quick” in step 4, and continue repeating the steps until the song is complete.

Tip

If you are a beginner, do not try turning your partner until you have the steps down.
Cowboy boots are best for dancing! They slide well and look great with a pair of jeans!
Get your rhythm of the music first before trying to dance: quick-quick-slow-slow.

SOURCE: www.ehow.com/how_2171722_dance-country-twostep.html

2 Dress it up! Put on you best duds, this date is an excuse to get all dolled up for each other!

3 Refreshments of course! We were picturing the punch bowl from prom and finger food. And we did some leg work for you and found a few recipes if you need some help!

CLICK ON AN IMAGE:

4 Dance it up, have fun, laugh! Organize the night in a way that is natural for you! Good Luck!

Kiss

2009-02-10T07:56:00.000-08:00

"A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous."

-Ingrid Bergman

Couple Conference Date Night!

2009-02-09T18:14:00.000-08:00

THIS DATE INCLUDES AN OPPORTUNITY FOR COUPLES CHAT, CHAT, CHAT! SINCE COMMUNICATION IS SO IMPORTANT, THIS DATE CAN BE VERY REWARDING IF THE RULES ARE FOLLOWED.
*
THE PLAN:

1 Read the Following Article:
According to Dr. A. Lynn Scoresby, professional counselor in child and family psychology, professor of family science, and author of "Foundations for a Happier Marriage," a happy relationship requires a suitable amount of both talking and listening. In other words, it requires communication. He explains that when there is a lack of communication both parties experience increased confusion. He shares the example of a woman whose husband fails to talk with her often and how as a result, may begin to wonder if he likes her. He states that " When couples fail to share enough ideas and thoughts... or fail to share accurately, they increase the possibility that their anxiety will distort what they perceive about their marriages. Such conclusions stem from the notion that a desire to talk is a form of expressing attraction." Dr. Scoresby has found that many couples have actually been able to improve their relationships by having what he calls "marriage conferences" several times a week. Since we at Keepin Romance Alive believe in strengthening relationships we have taken Scoresby's advice and turned it into the ultimate date idea! We wish you the best of luck at a night of fulfilling and accurate communication.

SOURCE: "Foundations for a Happier Marriage" A. Lynn Scoresby

2 Decide a location for your "Conference." Home, park, restaurant, etc...
3 Follow the Rules below for your Marriage/ Couple Conference (Rules as outlined in Dr. Scoresby's book):

Conferences should last for 30 minutes.
Each person is to ask the other a total of 5 questions.
The person asking the question is only aloud to listen.
The listener is NOT aloud to agree or disagree with the response. He or she can ONLY state whether or not they understood.

4 For those of you who suffer along with me (Natasha) from flapping jaw, hard of hearing syndrome (or in Josh's terms, diarrhea of the mouth) try including your favorite dessert or snack to help keep the ears open and the mouth shut when it's your turn to listen ;)

The Yummy Ice Cream Foot Massage Date!

2009-01-26T21:05:00.001-08:00

THIS DATE INCLUDES GIVING EACH OTHER THE YUMMIEST FOOT RUB, TOPPED OFF WITH YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM!

THE PLAN:

1 Check out the following links for the how to's on giving a fabulous foot massage.

Wikihow Foot Massage

Foot Massage How to Video

2 Set the Mood. Turn on some relaxing music, light a scented candle, and argue over who goes first!

3 Soak and wash feet in a warm bath.

4 Using massage oil or lotion, massage feet.

5 Switch! and start over at # 3! We don't want anyone to feel left out...

6 Top off the night with your favorite Ice Cream!

Author's Note:

Josh and I had a blast! We both agreed this was a "must do again" date. We cozied up in the rocking chair right by the computer so we could watch the video instructions while giving the massage. This really helped. I could pause it and just focus on that one point for a minute and then move on. I have to say after a long week this was just what the Dr. ordered. We talked and laughed and ended the night very, very relaxed. Let us know how it went for you!