Date Night

"Dating" is considered the stage leading up to a relationship, and once we pass this step we sometimes forget its importance.  Yes, getting to know each other is primarily reserved for the courting period, but it is also critical when it comes to making a relationship last.  We can never stop learning about our significant other, and dating is a fun and exciting way to do it. This time together allows us to continuously relive the excitement of something new and to generate (and maintain) the spark that attracted us to someone in the first place, and that can keep us together.

Date night, for my purposes, is not solely characterized by "going out" but also by staying in. Doing things together and planning time reserved for two is what establishes a night (or day) as a date. Renting a movie, walking through the city, grabbing drinks, cooking dinner and visiting local museums or gardens are all fun things to do. Personally, there's no date night that I enjoy better than choosing a recipe off the Food Network and fumbling my way through it with the one I love. Aside from providing alone time, this activity can bring two people closer together as they work toward a common end.  This end, of course, is not just the satisfaction of a job well done but also being able to enjoy a romantic meal for two.  If you're not too quick in the kitchen, baking is easier, and nothing says "I love you" better than sweets!

In honor of the weekend, think up something romantic, silly, fun, or crazy to do with your man and remember that dates are not just for those who are dating. Happy Friday!