Easy Ways to Invest in Your Marriage

We all know that we need to invest in our marriages. However, between changing diapers and getting dinner on the table, we often forget to put TIME into our relationship with our spouse. I'm not suggesting that we try to be SUPERMOM. But with a little change in perspective, maybe we can find that time to have a little bit more romance in our lives. Here are just a few ideas to get you thinking:

• Take a walk around the neighborhood- Load the kids in the strollers and get out for some fresh air. Be sure to pack some toys and snacks to keep the kids busy. Put aside the frustrations of the day and just concentrate on each other.
  
• Walk to the mail together- Sure it's just a few minutes, but it's your time. Let the kids play together for a few minutes and groan over the crazy ads vying for your money.
  
• Walk to the laundry together- Whether you live in an apartment or the laundry room is in the basement, it's a few moments for just the two of you to be together. Take a minute to hold hands or ask about each other's day.
  
• Rent a movie from the library- Pick up something romantic. Sure your husband may complain, but he won't mind and it will give you come great cuddle time.
  
• Share a Mocha or dessert- Swap babysitting with a neighbor and go out for a quick treat. Going out doesn't have to mean a meal. It can be something as simple as a single dessert with two forks.
  
• Take a bike ride- Riding a bike will make you feel like a kid again. Take some time to enjoy those carefree moments and laugh together.
  
• Play at the park- Run, slide, swing... with or without the kids... Getting outside and doing something together is a great way to build a new memory that will get you through those rough days of being "Mommy" and "Daddy."
  
• Do a couples Bible study- One of the best ways to grow together is by seeking God together. Find a group with a variety of married couples in different stages of life to learn more strategies for growing a healthy marriage.
  
• Find a park with a free tennis court, rollerblading rink, soccer field, etc- Again, build a memory together. So what if you can't stay upright on a pair of skates? Learn together. And don't forget to laugh.
  
• Go to a free music performance at a local college- Our local college allows anyone to come "sit-in" on orchestra practice. With kids, the added bonus is exposing them to new music. Without kids, the bonus is some time to sit hand in hand.
  
• Have a family game night- Break out the board games and break into teams. You and your partner just might learn something new about each other. Like who is more conservative at Monopoly or who is more competitive at Rummy.
  
• Garden together- Grow something that will make you smile every time you look at it. Passing that rose bush in your driveway will remind you every time of your spouse.
  
• Wash the car- Sure it has to be done, but it doesn't have to be a chore. Spend an evening washing the car while the kids play in the sprinkler. But keep a careful eye on who has the hose. You just might get wet as well.