Date Ideas Archives - iMOM https://www.imom.com/category/marriage/date-ideas/ iMOM exists for you - to inspire you to love your family well. Thu, 01 Aug 2024 21:22:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://www.imom.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/cropped-iMOM-favicon-512px-32x32.png Date Ideas Archives - iMOM https://www.imom.com/category/marriage/date-ideas/ 32 32 3 Things to Remember When a Date Night’s Not Possible https://www.imom.com/things-remember-when-date-night-not-possible/ https://www.imom.com/things-remember-when-date-night-not-possible/#respond Wed, 14 Dec 2022 23:32:13 +0000 https://www.imom.com/?p=46329 I sat around the table at Chili’s and laughed with my girlfriends over chips and salsa and two-for-one glasses of wine. The conversation had shifted to date nights, and as the waiter brought our second round, one friend piped up and said, “My husband and I didn’t have a date night for four years.” I […]

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I sat around the table at Chili’s and laughed with my girlfriends over chips and salsa and two-for-one glasses of wine. The conversation had shifted to date nights, and as the waiter brought our second round, one friend piped up and said, “My husband and I didn’t have a date night for four years.” I was so surprised to hear this because I’ve always perceived their marriage as solid, and they seem to be so connected. I thought one of the requirements for a marriage like that was a regular date night.

She said her first baby was colicky. Her second, who arrived a year later, was an easy baby, but the toddler was a handful. Prepping a sitter for all of his antics caused more stress for them than they wanted to manage. They were picking their battles and date night lost. Maybe you’re on a tight budget, you have a child with special needs, or you and your husband work opposite shifts, and date nights aren’t possible or happen very infrequently. Don’t worry. Remember these 3 things.

1. A date night is not a key ingredient in a healthy marriage.

We’ve written a lot over the years about the importance of date nights, and there’s no denying they can add richness to your marriage—but they are not a requirement. When my friend mentioned her four-year date hiatus, someone at the table said, “So when did you guys connect?” She said one night, they grabbed the baby monitor, sat in the car in the driveway, and listened to their wedding mix CD (Remember when that was a thing?).

Consider what makes a marriage work: communication, attentiveness, a shared faith, mutual respect, cooperation. Date nights are nice, but not having a date night is not the same thing as not communicating or cooperating.

2. The concept of a “date night” is new and privileged.

I think my childhood babysitter’s name was Tonya. I say “I think” because my parents didn’t go out without my sister and me very often. It wasn’t part of their budget or their routine. In fact, Americans didn’t eat at restaurants nearly as much then as we do now. Think back over the decades. Can you imagine parents in the 1940s or ‘50s leaving their kids a few times a month? Marriages have been happy and healthy for centuries without regular date nights.

3. But you do need to be more intentional.

My friend said at times, it felt like she and her husband were hunkered down in a storm together. They knew they weren’t going anywhere, so they had to make do with what they had. She said, “The little touches that feel romantic on a date night, like holding hands in the car or complimenting the other person on their appearance—you don’t need to be on a date to do that.”

She said occasionally they’d turn off the TV and light a candle after the kids went to bed. Her husband would bring her a glass of wine. It created a mood that helped them both relax and put the concerns of the day aside, and that’s ultimately the goal of a date. If you know dates aren’t going to be part of your routine for a while, don’t put your marriage on autopilot. Talk to your husband about how you both can be intentional about expressing love and showing attention in other ways.

What are some ways to mimic the special feeling of a date night when date night isn’t possible?

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Connect With Your Spouse Using Ally https://www.imom.com/connect-with-your-spouse-using-ally/ https://www.imom.com/connect-with-your-spouse-using-ally/#respond Tue, 13 Sep 2022 15:57:32 +0000 https://www.imom.com/?p=44822 My husband, an associate pastor, and I had a premarital counseling session with a young surgeon and his fiancée. At the end of our meeting, the young woman asked for ideas for how to connect with your spouse. We glanced at each other and smiled. “The Ally” came out of our mouths at the same […]

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My husband, an associate pastor, and I had a premarital counseling session with a young surgeon and his fiancée. At the end of our meeting, the young woman asked for ideas for how to connect with your spouse. We glanced at each other and smiled. “The Ally” came out of our mouths at the same time. We laughed like teens in love.

For the past seven years, my husband and I have remained committed to our once-a-month Ally date. It is our marriage anchor. Our Ally date encourages us to share and connect with each other on a deeper level. Here’s what an Ally date is and why you and your husband need it, too.

What is an Ally date?

It’s lovely to have carefree conversations, but the Ally date is a way to truly connect with your spouse. Several years ago, I sat across from my husband on a date, and talked on and on about the kids. I badgered him with questions, trying to connect with him, but then, I literally ran out of words. We became that silent, disconnected couple many of us have seen in restaurants.

“How are you feeling emotionally?” I asked, breaking the silence. My husband, usually a man of few words, shifted his head toward me and spiraled into a five-minute answer. We alternated asking each other questions about how we’re doing revolving around six words that end in ALLY: physically, emotionally, sexually, mentally, financially, and spiritually. Here’s how it’s changed our conversations.

PhysicALLY

How you’re doing physically affects your marriage. On an Ally date a couple of years ago, my husband shared, “I feel a little sluggish and I know it’s because I haven’t been running.” The more he talked, it became apparent that he didn’t feel safe running after the shooting of Ahmaud Arbery. When it happened, we had discussed the injustice on a social level, but not how Arbery’s death was affecting him personally and as a result, physically. Learning about his concerns gave me the chance to support him in a new way. Now, meeting halfway, we walk together in the mornings.

EmotionALLY

I was three weeks into taking a new medication when the hot flashes, negative self-talk, and fears of being suicidal shoved me into an empty, dark hole. “I feel like I’m going crazy,” I cried to my husband on an Ally date. After backtracking to the origin of my symptoms, we concluded, as did my doctor, the altering of my emotions was from the medication. Sharing how you are emotionally helps you connect with your spouse because it creates space for you to walk alongside one another.

SexuALLY

As someone who suffers with crippling endometriosis flare-ups, my physical pain affects us sexually. “I miss you, but my body cringes at the thought of having sex right now,” I told my husband on an Ally date recently. “We’ll just increase our hugs, touches, cuddles, and kisses,” my husband reminded me with a wink. When you share how you are sexually, you get to discuss and find different ways of being intimate.

MentALLY

At the rise of the pandemic, I went to the emergency room complaining of chest pain. “You are having a panic attack,” the physician said after a series of tests. Telling my husband how the pandemic affected my mental health on an Ally date inspired us to read more and research breathing exercises to help me in the future. Sharing with your husband how you are mentally gets your thoughts out of your head and can be a step toward getting the help you need.

FinanciALLY

Last year, our oldest graduated from high school a year early and we celebrated with a family trip to Italy. During an Ally date at a little chalet overlooking the Adriatic sea, my husband shared his desire to travel more. ‘With one less kid to teach, I can go back to work part-time and pay for our yearly family vacations,” I said. Discussing how you are financially allows you to make changes and set new goals for your family.

SpirituALLY

When we talk about how we’re doing spiritually, we open up with each other about how we’re communicating or connecting with God. When only worship leaders were allowed in the church at the start of the pandemic, the choir director texted me a picture of my husband playing the drums. “Playing the drums is like speaking a language that connects me to God,” my husband said on an Ally date. My husband’s passion inspired me to go out and buy him a djembe drum. He plays it now as a form of spiritual practice, and I get to enjoy listening and watching him play.

Which of the Ally topics would help you connect with your spouse more?

This article was written by Kadine Christie.

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How the Rule of 1 Can Refresh Your Marriage https://www.imom.com/ways-to-reconnect-with-your-husband/ https://www.imom.com/ways-to-reconnect-with-your-husband/#respond Sat, 13 Aug 2022 23:21:30 +0000 https://www.imom.com/?p=44048 When my husband and I were preparing for marriage, the priest assisting us suggested that we commit to one date night out a month. He admitted that it could be hard and a bit expensive because of babysitters, but he was adamant that it would be worth it. And he was right. We needed those […]

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When my husband and I were preparing for marriage, the priest assisting us suggested that we commit to one date night out a month. He admitted that it could be hard and a bit expensive because of babysitters, but he was adamant that it would be worth it. And he was right. We needed those nights out of the house.

But they weren’t enough on their own. Over the past seven years, we have gradually created the “Rule of One.” This rule recognizes that couples need to reconnect regularly if they want their marriage to be healthy and happy. Monthly dates alone aren’t going to cut it—a lot can happen in a month, and you just can’t leave it all to be hashed out during your date night. Take a look at the three parts of the Rule of One to see how they will help you refresh your marriage.

One Night In Per Week

Four months after our first child was born, my husband and I were coming home from dinner and a movie when I realized that I was absolutely drained from the experience. I know some couples swear by their weekly date nights out, but that was just not a sustainable option for us at the time. Paying for babysitters, dinner, a tip, and the occasional movie was expensive, and making the arrangements for the night was just exhausting. By the time we left the house, all I wanted to do was go back inside, put on my pajamas, and go to bed.

So, we instituted our “one night in.” Since that day, once a week, we have a date night at home. After the kids are in bed, I cook for just the two of us, we reconnect, and we just enjoy each other’s company. We light candles and serve special “grown-up” meals. We talk about the past week as well as the one ahead, going deeper than we do with the kids around. Weekly date nights in require no money, and only a little bit of planning. Find one hour a week when you can be alone, and commit to making it happen. If you need some inspiration, take a look at these simple at-home date ideas.

One Night Out a Month date night conversation starters

A monthly date night was the first part of the Rule of One we added to our marriage, and personally, we’ve found them to be the hardest to maintain. But we have fought to keep them on our calendar, and not just because I love eating out at restaurants. Sitting alone in restaurants often leads to the best conversations between my husband and me. Just this past month, we spent our entire date dreaming about our dream home, complete with French doors in our bedroom leading off to our deck. As we walked back to our car, my husband was able to take my hand, since we had no little children to lead across the parking lot. It made me realize I’d taken hand-holding for granted.

Having date nights is a great way to reconnect with your husband, and they don’t have to be expensive—consider swapping babysitting services with a fellow mom, packing a picnic lunch for the park, or attending a local cultural event with your husband. If you need ideas for conversation starters, take a look at this printable.

One Weekend Away a Year

My husband and I are fortunate to have families who are willing and able to take our kids for a weekend so we can go away once a year. Some years, we have had more “honeymoon” experiences—a weekend at the beach or at an amusement park. Other years, we have stayed local, found a hotel room on Groupon, and spent the weekend exploring different restaurants, taking walks, and just enjoying each other’s company. In our experience, two full days really are necessary to get the full effect. For most couples, it’ll take a full day before you shift out of “parent mode” and can really start to focus on your marriage. It also gives you enough time to move beyond conversations about work, the kids, and other practical matters.

Weekend getaways can be pricey, but they don’t have to be. Consider splitting your kids up among several friends or swapping babysitting with a family member. On a few occasions, we have driven our kids to out-of-state family members, and then had our getaway weekend in the same area. Not every couple can get away for an entire weekend, but if you can do it, it will be just what you need to remember why you married your husband in the first place.

What are your favorite ways to reconnect with your husband? Do you think he’d say the same thing?

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What Kind of Date Night Do You Need? https://www.imom.com/4-types-of-dates-to-go-on/ https://www.imom.com/4-types-of-dates-to-go-on/#respond Tue, 14 Dec 2021 16:21:38 +0000 https://www.imom.com/?p=38407 “Oops, sorry. We can’t talk about the kids tonight.” This is what my husband and I kept saying roughly every five minutes while on our date. Why? Because we’d heard a marriage expert say to “keep the focus of date night on each other and do not talk about the kids.” By the end of […]

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“Oops, sorry. We can’t talk about the kids tonight.” This is what my husband and I kept saying roughly every five minutes while on our date. Why? Because we’d heard a marriage expert say to “keep the focus of date night on each other and do not talk about the kids.”

By the end of the evening, we’d had fun, but I couldn’t help feeling like there were a lot of unresolved issues bothering me—things related to the kids that I wanted to talk about. So this led us to ask: Who says there is only one type of date night that’s best for couples with kids? Here are 4 types of dates to go on and how to figure out which one you need most!

1. A Fun-Without-Kids Date Night

Sometimes, you and your husband just need to get away from the kids—far, far away! You need to unplug, detach from the worries and demands, or just do some fun things that you wouldn’t normally get to do.

How do you know this is the kind of date night you need? When you’ve already hashed and rehashed the issues going on with your kids, or when you just need to get out of the worry loop you’re in, or when you can’t remember the last time the two of you went out and had fun alone. It’s probably time! If you just want to have a fun conversation with your husband, try our Would You Rather… Conversation Starter printable.

2. A Problem-Solving Date Night

Other times, you might be craving some uninterrupted time to talk about the challenges or feelings that have been weighing on you. You might need to problem-solve together, to come up with some ideas and strategies to try when you get home.

Of all the types of dates to go on, how do you know this is the kind you need? When you’ve been too busy or too exhausted to have a real conversation. Or when one of you is particularly stressed. Or when you can’t find a time or place to talk about these things without the kids eavesdropping—then it’s time.

3. A Planning and Dreaming Date Night

Are you and your husband planners and dreamers? Some couples talk about those things naturally and regularly, but others have forgotten to dream with their spouses in the midst of an overscheduled life. I mean, who has the time or energy to dream?

But if you’re nodding your head, it might be the perfect time to have this kind of date night! Planning a vacation, dreaming about owning a farm someday, or putting in a pool—these kinds of things give you something to look forward to together. Put it in writing with our Husband and Wife Bucket List printable.

4. A Romantic Date Night

People define romance differently, but the actual word means to “woo” or “seek the favor” of someone. But when you’ve been married for a while, you’ve already got each other’s favor, right? Right. But don’t you want to be wooed over and over again? Your husband does too.

So if it’s been a while, or if the spark between you could use a little fuel, then it’s time for a romantic date night. You can plan it together or make it a surprise, but the point is for the whole date to revolve around seeking the favor of each other. Consider how can you make him smile and how you can you show him how much you love him. More than just a “fun night,” a romantic date night intentionally reaches out to your husband’s heart.

Of these four types of dates to go on, which one do you and your spouse need the most right now?

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7 Things Every Husband Wants on a Date With His Wife https://www.imom.com/what-does-a-man-want-from-the-woman-he-loves/ https://www.imom.com/what-does-a-man-want-from-the-woman-he-loves/#respond Tue, 05 Oct 2021 04:15:35 +0000 https://www.imom.com/?p=36433 Do you remember your first date? Mine was at a church carnival. It was exactly what you’d imagine: a couple of 15-year-olds avoiding holding hands, him trying to win me a stuffed animal by throwing darts at balloons, splitting a cotton candy on the Ferris wheel. It was the epitome of sweet awkwardness. Now, my […]

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Do you remember your first date? Mine was at a church carnival. It was exactly what you’d imagine: a couple of 15-year-olds avoiding holding hands, him trying to win me a stuffed animal by throwing darts at balloons, splitting a cotton candy on the Ferris wheel. It was the epitome of sweet awkwardness. Now, my husband and I follow our kids around that same carnival and act as human ATMs every time they want “just one more dollar” to try to win a fish. Suffice it to say, it’s not a date for us.

When you’re a parent, it’s tempting to say that a kid-free night out to dinner counts as a date. Maybe it does for you, or maybe it’s just a quieter version of the third meal of the day. When you get those moments away, what can you do to actually make it feel like a date? What does a man want from the woman he loves when they finally get a night out? Here are 7 things every husband wants on a date with his wife.

1. He wants a check-in…

You can look at a date night as a state of the union address. Focus on finding out how your husband is doing. Even just asking how he’s doing while making eye contact can start a meaningful conversation. Most men are eager to talk to their wives about what’s on their minds; they just need an invitation.

2. …but not a checklist.

So much of day-to-day life revolves around the kids and their needs or what has to get done around the house. No joke—one night out, my husband and I spent about 20 minutes talking about garage door openers. Use the time to talk about the family, but avoid the temptation to scratch a to-do list on your napkin.

3. He wants you to smile.

What does a man want from the woman he loves when they are out together? He wants to feel like she wants to be there. Even if you have a lot on your mind, try to leave it at home and just enjoy the time together. He probably loves seeing you smile, so be generous! And feel free to flirt a little. You can still get his heart racing with a wink, extended eye contact, or a kiss on the cheek for no reason. This may sound kind of basic, but flirting shows your husband you’re into him. Don’t make him wonder.

4. He wants to reminisce.

Sometimes just thinking of those years together is enough to conjure up all the good feels. Talk about what you remember about your first few dates, your honeymoon, or the first few days after your kids were born. A date with your husband is a great opportunity to remind each other of your history and all you’ve been through together.

5. He wants to talk about dreams.

Now that you’ve looked back, why not look forward? Talk about your dreams and goals. You both might be afraid to broach the topic because life feels too hectic to even consider a vacation or a splurge, but give it a try. You can even use our Would You Rather… Conversation Starter printable to talk about things you’ve probably never discussed before.

6. He wants to see where the night takes you.

Even guys who like structure want to relax now and then. A hyper-scheduled date—like having to be at a restaurant by a certain time so you can get to the theater before the curtain rises—leaves little to no room for spontaneity, which can be super romantic. It really sets the date up for disaster when there’s too much pressure to follow a schedule.

7. He wants to get physical.

You knew this was coming. I sent a text to some friends and said, “Tell me: What does a man want from the woman he loves when they’re on a date.” I immediately got hilarious responses and side-eyes. When my friends heard back from their husbands, one said “post love” another cut right to the chase: “Sex!” Way to sugarcoat it. But seriously, ending your date with sex (or starting it, because let’s be real, full bellies usually lead to sleep) is a great way to make the night feel like more than just another night out.

And in case you’re wondering what husbands are being told their wives want on a date, here’s an article from our fatherhood site, All Pro Dad.

What are you looking for on a date with your husband?

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5 Simple Date Night Ideas for a Fun Marriage https://www.imom.com/5-simple-date-night-ideas-fun-marriage/ https://www.imom.com/5-simple-date-night-ideas-fun-marriage/#respond Mon, 14 Jun 2021 04:15:36 +0000 https://www.imom.com/?p=30607 Stale is probably not the way you want to describe your marriage—not now, not ever. But the path to keeping a marriage fun, fresh, and full of joy isn’t always clear. And let’s face it. Fun and simple date night ideas aren’t the easiest to come up with when you’re trying to juggle workloads, schedules, […]

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Stale is probably not the way you want to describe your marriage—not now, not ever. But the path to keeping a marriage fun, fresh, and full of joy isn’t always clear. And let’s face it. Fun and simple date night ideas aren’t the easiest to come up with when you’re trying to juggle workloads, schedules, childcare, and tight budgets.

Fancy dinners and overnight trips have their place for sure, but simple moments together on a regular basis can leave you feeling more connected, more in love, and more full of joy about the days ahead (and doubly so if you can create a few new memories while you’re at it). So if you’re feeling stale, try these 5 simple date night ideas for a fun marriage.

1. Go on a sunset picnic.

Sunset is a bit of magic that happens every day, yet we rarely stop to notice it. That’s what makes it the perfect date night activity. For a simple date night, grab a salad or sandwich from the kitchen or a nearby shop and head to your favorite sunset spot together. As you eat and watch the sunset colors take over the sky, chat, hold hands, and lean in close. Let the simple beauty of the sky—and the moment—take your breath away.

2. Visit a place from your past.

When I was first getting to know my husband, we would spend every other Saturday night at Barnes & Noble sipping coffee, picking out books, and chatting. Now that we’ve been married for 17 years, we rarely take time to do anything like that, so it’s especially fun when we do. Think of a place that meant something to you and your husband when you were falling in love. Go there together. Let the memory of falling in love take over for a while.

3. See a movie you saw together on one of your first dates.

Sargent Bilko is the movie my husband and I saw on our first date way back in 1996. It’s not a great movie, but surprising him by making it the center of our date night on rare occasions shows I still remember what it was like to be a teenager in love with him. Add stovetop popcorn, a pack of Sour Patch Kids or Raisinets, and a Coke, and the date is made. What movie brings back a good memory for you and your husband? Put it on and see what happens.

4. Find an adrenaline-inducing activity.

I fell in love with my husband one South Georgia summer during a sweaty basketball game. A scientist wouldn’t be surprised about that, because sweating releases pheromones, which causes physical attraction. Chances are, you might have an early memory of doing something active with your husband, too. But how often do you sweat together now that you’re older? Maybe it’s time. Go for a hike, rent bikes for a couple of hours, hit the batting cages or bowling rink, or maybe surprise him with a round of hoops if that’s your thing. Increase your heart rate together and watch the sparks fly.

5. Make a meal that means something special.

A Virginia-baked ham sandwich with Muenster cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayo, and mustard will always remind me of my husband. It’s the meal we ate together most while we were dating and it’s still one of his favorite foods on the planet. Surprising him by making that simple meal the star of our date night every now and then shows him I remember his favorites and I’m thinking of him. It’s far from fancy, but it’s meaningful (and easy to take to the sunset, too).

Now that you’ve got a few simple date night ideas, you can have loads of fun together. What ideas can you add to the list?

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19 Valentine’s Day Date Ideas https://www.imom.com/19-valentines-date-night-ideas/ https://www.imom.com/19-valentines-date-night-ideas/#respond Sat, 01 Feb 2020 05:00:00 +0000 https://imom.af6v7q9l-liquidwebsites.com/19-valentines-date-night-ideas/ There’s a lot of pressure to come up with good Valentine’s Day date ideas. When my husband’s and my first Valentine’s Day as a couple rolled around, we had only been dating for a few weeks, so we decided to lay low. I went to his place and made dinner and sugar cookies. I really […]

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There’s a lot of pressure to come up with good Valentine’s Day date ideas. When my husband’s and my first Valentine’s Day as a couple rolled around, we had only been dating for a few weeks, so we decided to lay low. I went to his place and made dinner and sugar cookies. I really wasn’t expecting a gift from him, but he gave me a Ms. Pac-Man game that you plug into the TV (Ms. Pac-Man was my favorite game). It may sound ridiculous, but sitting next to my favorite person and taking turns playing Ms. Pac-Man while eating great food was a perfect evening.

A date doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive to be memorable. It should be about spending time with your favorite person. So show some love with these 19 Valentine’s Day date ideas and let the romance ignite!

1. Go back to where it all began.

Reminisce about your first Valentine’s Day as a couple. If you remember what you had for dinner, try to recreate it. Think you’ve spent enough time with your husband to know the answers to these 20 fun questions to get to know him better?

2. It’s a bake-off!

Surely you’ve seen one of the dozens of baking shows on TV. Pick a recipe, and do your best to nail it.

3. Get cultural.

Get lost in a museum or art gallery. It can spark interesting conversation and reveal more to you about how your husband sees the world.

4. Play hooky.

Take a day off from work together. Your kids are at school, and you can hire a babysitter for the afternoon so you can just enjoy each other’s company for an entire day. Need more motivation? Here are 10 reasons to get away without the kids.

5. Eat dessert first.

If you don’t have time to make a special dinner, make or pick up a “wow” dessert and a bottle of bubbly. Start with dessert and you might not even care about eating dinner.

6. Channel your inner Picasso.

There are tons of painting and drawing tutorials on YouTube. Grab the kids’ paint and buy a couple of canvases at the dollar store. Set up your “studio” so you can’t see each other’s paintings until the big reveal at the end.

7. Clip coupons.

No, we’re not suggesting that making a grocery list is a good Valentine’s Day date idea. Give your husband this collection of Valentine coupons for a back rub, his favorite home-cooked meal (plus dessert!), an afternoon of uninterrupted time for him to watch sports, or maybe instant forgiveness for one of his little irksome habits.

8. Mock a movie.

Pick the worst movie you can find and watch it purely with the goal of laughing, even if it’s not a comedy.

9. Be tourists in love.

Stay at a hotel in town that has a nice restaurant or a view. Pretend you’re out-of-towners and do something your city is known for that you’ve never tried.

10. Think back.

Pull out your wedding video or photos and watch how the conversation and memories come naturally. Play your first dance song and enjoy a slow dance.

11. Make it a family Valentine’s Day.

Make the day special for the whole family with a special dinner and an indulgent dessert. End the night with iMOM’s Valentine Family Game Show or curl up on the couch for a kid-friendly rom-com.

12. Stargaze.

Download the stargazing app, bundle up, and lie on a blanket in the back yard. You’ll feel like teenagers again!

13. Create a time capsule.

This is two Valentine’s Day date ideas in one. Put items from the year into a shoebox (If you have something more capsule-like, good for you!), write letters to each other, seal it up, and store it away. Mark your calendar with “open time capsule” on February 14th, 2023. Then order pizza and enjoy a time travel movie.

14. Turn the tables and romance him.

Yes, women want romance on Valentine’s Day, but what if you take the pressure off of him and try some of these 41 ways to romance your husband? We bet he’ll return the favor.

15. Have a “His and Hers” movie night.

Start this date early because it’s a double feature. You both get to pick a movie you’ve been wanting to see, but the other has given a thumbs-down to. If you want to pick a classic, check out these 52 great movie love stories. Have an intermission between movies to pick up takeout for dinner.

16. Dress for success.

Wear something new to bed. (No flannel, even if it’s a cold night.)

17. Do a dine-in double date.

Some couples want to be alone on Valentine’s Day, but maybe for you, getting together with your favorite friends sounds like the perfect night. The husbands can make dinner and the wives can prep dessert! Put all the kids at one house and pay for one babysitter (but pay her well!).

18. Be irresponsible!

You tell the kids to put away the video games, get out of their pajamas, and eat their vegetables. Break all your own rules by sending the kids to Grandma’s house for the day and spending the day in bed. Order pizza, play video games, binge a show… Be lazy in love.

19. Bond over breakfast.

Evenings can be hectic and sitters are pricey. Start your day with romance instead and have a Valentine’s breakfast. Make as many things on the menu as possible heart-shaped. Who doesn’t love a heart-shaped pancake?

What is your favorite Valentine’s date idea?

 

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Simple At-Home Date Night Ideas https://www.imom.com/simple-at-home-date-night-ideas/ https://www.imom.com/simple-at-home-date-night-ideas/#respond Wed, 01 Jan 2020 05:00:00 +0000 https://imom.af6v7q9l-liquidwebsites.com/simple-at-home-date-night-ideas/ It’s the challenge for all married parents: How can a husband and wife stay connected once kids come along? When our triplets were born, my husband and I lived far away from family. Our limited finances made New York City babysitting rates seem astronomical. When a friend occasionally offered free babysitting, I struggled mightily to hand my kids over. Sometimes, pure exhaustion made the idea of a date night simply unappealing. Prioritizing a spouse while juggling the demands of a family is difficult, no matter what stage you’re in. But a strong marriage is worth the effort because the whole family benefits. If date nights out seem too daunting to undertake right now, consider some of these at-home date night ideas to keep that romantic fire kindled.

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It’s the challenge for all married parents: How can a husband and wife stay connected once kids come along? When our triplets were born, my husband and I lived far away from family. Our limited finances made New York City babysitting rates seem astronomical. When a friend occasionally offered free babysitting, I struggled mightily to hand my kids over. Sometimes, pure exhaustion made the idea of a date night simply unappealing.

Prioritizing a spouse while juggling the demands of a family is difficult, no matter what stage you’re in. But a strong marriage is worth the effort because the whole family benefits. If date nights out seem too daunting to undertake right now, consider some of these at-home date night ideas to keep that romantic fire kindled.

1. Eat what you want.

Dress it up with candlelight and a black-tie wardrobe or keep it simple with finger foods and a carpet picnic. Enjoy a favorite meal under blankets in front of the fireplace or stream a favorite movie from the year you met or got married.

2. Play a game.

Card games, board games, jigsaw puzzles—all great options.

3. Try DIY.

Look up some wine tasting tips and try new wines in your living room, make a new cocktail and sip it on the patio, or indulge in a favorite homemade dessert as you stargaze. A painting tutorial is just a click away on YouTube. Some inexpensive canvases and paints can make for a fun and creative evening together.

4. Pamper each other.

Trade foot massages or back rubs. Go all out with massage oils and hot towels. Make it steamy with a shared bubble bath by candlelight. Stay refreshed with a pitcher of cucumber-infused ice water or a glass of wine.

5. Read together.

Once upon a time, reading out loud was a common family activity. Revive this old tradition with some poetry or an old classic that will spark some conversation.

6. Ready for a mess? Have a fight!

Start a water fight, wrestling match, mini-marshmallow war, or fling some whipped cream. Remember what it feels like to play together.

7. Have a dance party!

Pick an old favorite or turn on the latest pop tunes and get your groove on. Bonus: This at-home date night idea will burn some calories!

8. Bask in a winter wonderland.

Is it cold and snowy outside? Perfect! While the kids are sawing logs, head out to the yard and build a snowman, make snow angels, or have a snowball fight. When you’re nice and cold, go back inside for some hot drinks and snuggles to warm up.

9. Take a trip down memory lane.

Get cozy, cuddle on the couch, and air-drop old photos and slideshows from your phones to your TV.

Think of a fun date from your past. What made it so memorable?

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10 Two-Hour Dates for Busy Parents https://www.imom.com/10-two-hour-dates-for-busy-parents/ https://www.imom.com/10-two-hour-dates-for-busy-parents/#respond Wed, 14 Aug 2019 04:00:00 +0000 https://imom.af6v7q9l-liquidwebsites.com/10-two-hour-dates-for-busy-parents/ A few years ago, before my husband and I became parents, we were pretty awesome at keeping a regular date night. And we had good date ideas—our excursions tended to be big and bougie. We would try new and exciting restaurants around the city, take day trips to a nearby, off-the-beaten-path beach, or even sneak in a weekend getaway to a city we had yet to explore. As time passed and we added two young girls to our family, our monthly date nights became an afterthought. We don’t have the time, money, or energy we once had to invest in planning our time together. I have to admit that I’ve had to work through my fair share of wounds with my husband when, post-babies, date night fell by the wayside. We recently recommitted to making intentional time for the two of us into a recurring theme on our calendar.

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A few years ago, before my husband and I became parents, we were pretty awesome at keeping a regular date night. And we had good date ideas—our excursions tended to be big and bougie. We would try new and exciting restaurants around the city, take day trips to a nearby, off-the-beaten-path beach, or even sneak in a weekend getaway to a city we had yet to explore. As time passed and we added two young girls to our family, our monthly date nights became an afterthought. We don’t have the time, money, or energy we once had to invest in planning our time together.

I have to admit that I’ve had to work through my fair share of wounds with my husband when, post-babies, date night fell by the wayside. We recently recommitted to making intentional time for the two of us into a recurring theme on our calendar. But I’ve had to adjust my expectations for how we make date night doable and meaningful for our marriage in this season. I honestly can say our new date night routine is bringing life and joy to both of us. If, in your season, you also need connection but it needs to be quick, here are 10 two-hour date night ideas for busy parents.

When You Have A Babysitter (Or The Kids Are Old Enough to Stay Home Alone)

1. Catch a Concert

Get tickets for when your favorite musician is in town or check out a band you’ve been wanting to see. If no tours are coming close to your city, listen to some great live music like you’re kids again.

2. Day Date

Visit your city’s Saturday farmer’s market and help each other build a bouquet of your favorite locally-grown flowers. If you don’t have a farmer’s market, have brunch with bae at your breakfast spot of choice.

3. Movie Matinee

See a matinee movie any random afternoon to get out of the daily routine rut. Make sure to enjoy your favorite snack.

4. Scooter Your City

Head downtown, rent electric scooters, and scoot around. Explore a part of town you haven’t visited in a while and have some coffee and a conversation at your favorite local cafe. If scooters aren’t available, opt for bikes instead.

5. Walk it Out

Take a walk or hike together and then grab a smoothie or something refreshing to drink. At tense times in marriage, I’ve found this to be a great way to get my husband to open up and create some space to work through misunderstandings.

When You Don’t Have a Babysitter

6. Happy Hour Hangs

Once your kids are asleep, take your favorite drinks into your back yard or onto your porch and watch the sunset. This is a great way to decompress after a long day.

7. Nerf Gun Battle

Kids asleep. Draw the curtains. Break out the Nerf guns. Battle royale.

8. Song & Dance

Create a Spotify playlist of your favorite love songs. Turn the lights down, light some candles, slide the toys out of the way, and slow dance in the living room. You’ll feel 23 again.

9. Dessert Dreams

After the kids are asleep, team up to make your favorite dessert together. As you bake, spend some time chatting about a dream of yours. It can be big or small. The point is that it’s something you can work on accomplishing together.

10. Netflix & Chill

Pick a few of your favorite shows to catch up on, pop some popcorn, and cuddle up on the couch. Make it a goal to stay touching for your entire TV time and see where it leads.

Dates should never be boring! Explore more ideas.

What are your favorite, good date ideas for busy moms and dads? 

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Take a Love Dare: Married Couples Bucket List https://www.imom.com/take-a-love-dare-married-couples-bucket-list/ https://www.imom.com/take-a-love-dare-married-couples-bucket-list/#respond Tue, 08 Sep 2015 04:00:00 +0000 https://imom.af6v7q9l-liquidwebsites.com/take-a-love-dare-married-couples-bucket-list/ Okay, I'll admit it, I love bucket lists. What can I say? They inspire me. So I've come up with a married couples bucket list you can use. Because we all know that when you're married and have kids, it can be difficult to keep things fresh. [Tweet this]

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Okay, I’ll admit it, I love bucket lists. What can I say? They inspire me. So I’ve come up with a married couples bucket list you can use. Because we all know that when you’re married and have kids, it can be difficult to keep things fresh. 

So after you look at our list, give us your ideas in the comments. We’ll keep adding to them so check back to see our latest ideas.

Here is the start of my married couples bucket list.

  1. Have sex on the beach.
  2. Take a biking trip together.
  3. Go skinny-dipping.
  4. Pay off your mortgage.
  5. Revisit your honeymoon destination.
  6. Go to a football game at your alma mater.
  7. Spend the night at a hotel, without the kids.
  8. Make out in an elevator.
  9. Renew your vows.
  10. Learn another language together.

Let’s Talk: What’s at the top of your couples bucket list?

Need more ideas? Check out our Husband and Wife Bucket List! There’s even bucket lists for you and your son or daughter. Or the Family Christmas Bucket List.

Dates should never be boring! Explore more ideas.

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