Keeping Romance in Relationships is
Good for Your Kids
Parenthood is a difficult task. We all try to provide our children with everything they need to be happy. One of the most important things a child needs is two parents who love each other with all their hearts. All too often parents put their marriage on the back burner and make children the center of attention. This is a mistake. If you want to be good to your child you must have a good relationship with your partner. Marriage is the first priority of good parenthood. To have a good relationship you must have time for each other. Spend time with each other after the children are in bed and hire a sitter at least once a month for a romantic getaway. Trade evenings or weekends with a friend. You take her children this time, next time she will take yours. Enable grandparents to spend meaningful time with their grandchildren while you escape with your beloved. Romance can be either spontaneous or well planned but it is always fun. Romance is the icing on the cake of a relationship.
Romance is that special once in a while fun feeling of exuberance and caring. It is love in motion. It is a hundred different ways of feeling close and affectionate. The best way to plan a romantic episode is to ask your partner ahead of time what he or she considers romantic. Fulfilling your partner's wishes is a very thoughtful way to say "I love you". Romantic interludes do not have to be expensive. The following are romantic ideas for everyday life.
1. Gifts and flowers and love letters are a time honored expression of affection.
2. A home cooked dinner of your beloved's favorite foods (put candles on the table and take the kids to Mammaw's house).
3. Sit on the banks of a river or lake and enjoy a picnic. Read poetry to each other. Poets with a romantic flair include: E.E. Cummings, William Blake, Emily Dickinson, and Shakespeare.
4. Say "I love you" everyday. Kiss for at least 5 seconds at a time.
5. Roast hot dogs or marshmallows in front of a campfire or in the fireplace. Tell ghost stories.
6. Spread a blanket in the back yard. Have wine and cheese and watch the stars. Call the International Star Registry (1-800-282-3333) and register a star in your lover's name. Present the gift while star gazing.
7. Watch romantic videos. Some suggestions include: Pretty Woman, Shakespeare in Love, Ever After, Sleepless in Seattle, and Dave.
8. Take a walk in the moonlight. After the walk, give your beloved a CD or tape of his favorite music, then snuggle and enjoy the music of the night.
9. "Kidnap" your partner and take him or her on a surprise overnight trip.
Nothing is better for your child than being raised by parents who love each other and live out a happy, long lasting, committed relationship. This takes effort and time but it reaps great rewards.