Maintaining Romance

Children are blessings, you can't deny that. But all too often I hear about relationships/marriages falling by the wayside - people becoming bored or just falling out of love. It just breaks my heart. I think sometimes parents become so wrapped up in the kids they forget to spend some time on each other, they forget how IMPORTANT this is. Mark and I have talked about this before. We don't ever want to lose the love and romance we have. I truly believe one of the best gifts you can give your children is seeing you and your spouse together, showing them how much you love each other, and taking time out for each other. It helps to build a solid foundation for them so that hopefully when they enter into marriages of their own they will have something to help them build their own solid and successful relationship.

I read an article yesterday about keeping romance in your marriage.  I thought it was interesting and worth sharing for anyone who are new parents, about to be parents, have been parents for awhile, etc.  Mark and I have actually discussed and agreed on a few of the points mentioned below.

Healthy Relationships: Create a Romantic Bedroom



Sex is a big part of healthy relationships and let's be honest—it's hard to get in the mood when there are wipes, diaper changing pads, stuffed animals, and little plastic toys scattered around the house. It's hard to keep the romance alive when your house smells like diapers!


Here's our relationship advice: if you want a healthy relationship, give yourself some adult space. Try to keep your bedroom as romantic and kid-free as possible. (In fact, it's probably not a bad idea to work really hard at making it YOUR space.) Think 'adult'. Think 'restful'. And, go ahead, think 'sex life.'


To create a romantic bedroom ambiance that screams Oh, Mama! instead of just "Mommy," try these tips:

*Place a small vase of flowers or a blooming plant and a candle on your dresser.

*Play soothing and sexy music you'll want to snuggle under the covers to.

*Use warm colors for the walls and bedding, soft lights, and some favorite photos of you doing something besides parenting for a truly romantic bedroom experience.

*Pull out your prettiest lingerie (or buy yourself some)— and actually making a pact to wear it at least a couple of nights a week.

*Don't change diapers on your bed. You don't want the lingering smell of poop  to distract you while you're trying to get in the mood!

*And finally, take a minute to clear away all of the board books, bottles, and binkies in your room. 'Cause, honestly? There's nothing sexy about a slobbery "Moo Baa La La La!"


When we first moved into our house we made sure the kids' rooms and 'living' areas were set up and ready with fresh coats of paint, things hung on the walls, etc.  We figured we would just get to our room later.  A year and a half later it is still unfinished.  Now as we are preparing to get married, and having read this article, I am feeling inspired to find different ideas to complete our room and really make it 'our space'.  I look forward to a long and successful marriage, full of love and happiness.