Romance in the Blender

For all couples, it takes intention to capture the romance during the real-life grind of parenting, home keeping, managing jobs and schedules.  When you begin dating and marriage with children already at a priority in life, it takes extra planning and intention to keep romance in the relationship.  

I remember an early "date" when Mr. Wonderful took the all of our kids I together for dinner dinner. It was about three months after we met and we went to a local bbq place.  Our children ranged in age from 3 to 14 years.  Mine were loud and squirmy, picky eaters, truly snotty (having a cold) and it went past their bedtime.  His were teen and tween girls with their own set of needs and attitudes.

Romance isn't always easy in marriage and truly doesn't come naturally with all five kiddos also demanding attention.  There are lots of articles and encouragement about "How to Romance Your Partner..." but I don't think the How matters as much as the actual doing of it.  Life is complicated and sometimes difficult so romance often gets pushed to the side.  But it's so worth it to engage your partner and do what you can to remind him that you love him - him and and only him without all the distractions.  

Mr. Wonderful is kind and affectionate.  He takes time daily to remind me with words that I am his number one person.  He woos me with his words.  He is affectionate and generous with cuddles and kisses. Our days are often spent moving in opposite directions, so the we end our evening intentionally together.  I manage the dinner prep and he cleans the kitchen.  The we settle together for some downtime on the sofa.  This carefree time is crucial to our connection.  

Romance takes many forms in our marriage.  Sometimes it is time alone with the focus on one another.  Many times it is a meaningful smile across a room filled with teenagers and clutter.  Most of all, I think romance is taking the time to notice, to see how your spouse may be trying even if it isn't dramatic.  Love is continually turning to one another.  It precious and rare and worth celebrating.  Do something this Valentine's Day to celebrate the love in your life! Make romance a verb and don't just wait for it to happen.

Don't allow dread or drama to steal your joy.  Instead, you can choose to be the one to savor the love and create a bit of romance in your marriage.  If you're feeling unloved or in a season without a person to romance, I've been there, too.  Never forget that your are fully loved and chosen by the greatest lover of all time.