12 Days of Gratitude

Much like the 12 Days of Christmas, the 12 Days of Gratitude are very similar. However, you play with your spouse and this can be done any time of year! Take 12 days (or however many you would like) and thank your spouse for something they did that day, or something they continue to do. So Day 1, one thing you are thankful for and work your way up to 12 things on the twelfth day. Try these ideas on how to tell you spouse thank you:

• Random text message
• Post-it note in their car, lunch, work bag or bathroom mirror
• Hand written note (especially useful if you struggle verbalizing your feelings)
• Poem or Song if you possess those talents
• Make your own thank you card (or buy a cute one)
• Make a toast to them at dinner; it is a good idea if you have children so they can see how much you appreciate each other
• Make a video of you listings things you are grateful for (get as creative as you desire)

These are some ideas to help you think outside the box. Remember, to be creative when thinking of things you are grateful your spouse does. Maybe you dislike taking out the trash and your spouse has always done that. Think big and small when it comes to this activity and have fun!

The Ongoing Gratitude Date!

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When was the last time you thanked your spouse? For making the bed, helping with dishes, watching the children, or working all day? Now is the time to start thanking your spouse sa part of your weekly date night. Have a notebook beside your bed or wherever you will remember to write in it. At the end of the day take one minute and write down a reason you are thankful for your spouse. It shouldn’t be the same every day. Sometime during your date night, share a few reason you are thankful for your spouse, and have them do the same. This is also a great time for communication. For example, “I’m grateful you took the kids while I finished dinner, if you could continue to do that when you can I would really appreciate it,” Your spouse can do the same with you. Being grateful shows that you see the good that your spouse is doing and not just seeing where they lack. This activity doesn’t have to be limited to just once a week, however, if you aren’t in the habit of expressing that gratitude, this is a great way to start!

A little Choppy

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Live entertainment is what this date is all about. At Tokyohana, you can watch as skilled chefs prepare your food, right before your eyes.  There's great entertainment and fabulous food.  Learn more here http://tokyohana.com/

3239 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77027

Relationship Reconnection:

This seems so simple, but with the business of life, we can loose sight of not only our needs, but our spouses needs too. Have a conversation about the things that really make each of you truly happy.  Find out what really gives your spouse joy, and then make this a priority.  Learning what feels the other person with joy can really help you feel closer. Individual joy and happiness can improve your relationship and bring it more joy too.

Death By Chocolate

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One this date you my just die laughing. Is death by chocolate really a bad thing?  This is a hilarious, one of a kind, guest interactive Mystery Dinner Theater.  it's a great alternative to dinner and a movie.  Check it out here http://www.murderbychocolate.com/ 

Relationship Reconnection:

Since this date is full of laughs, don't stop there.  On your drive home, talk about the funniest thing you've heard or that has happened to you this week.  Laughter is great for any relationship!

Up for some Speed?

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Go karts are not just for kids.  Go riding at Speedy's Fast Track.  But, don't stop at just go karting, there are plenty of other fun things to do.  How about laser tag or miniature golf? There's a lot of fun to be had here.  Visit http://www.houstonfasttrack.com/  to find out more.  Let loose and have a little fun together.



11440 Hempstead Rd, Houston, TX 77092

Relationship Reconnection:

Relationships are all about learning and growing together.  Discuss one thing each of you have learned today.  Learning new things and sharing them with each other is a great way to reconnect.

Healthy Competition

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How about a little healthy competition for this date? Top Golf is the place to go. You can practice your swing or even wage a little competition.  Even if you're not a fan of golf, there is still plenty to do. There is lots off food, games, and fun.  Visitors rave about this place. They have many seasonal events too.  Visit, http://topgolf.com/us/houston-west/ to find out more. 

 1030 Memorial Brook Blvd, Houston, TX 77084

Relationship Reconnection:

Relationships are about opening up, relating, and constantly learning more about one another.  Here's a simple question to get you opening up and talking. "If you had to pick one T.V. show that best summed up your day what would it be and why?  Take turns answering this question and learning a little more about one another.

Under Water Adventure

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Let's go on an underwater adventure for this date.  There is an array of things to do at the Houston Aquarium.  There are many exhibits, rides, a stingray reef, and you can even schedule dinner at the aquarium.  To find out more and get all the details, visit http://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumhouston/


410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002

Relationship Reconnection:

Relationships require a lot of give and take.  However, at times we feel like we are giving much more than our spouse and that can lead to criticism.  It's time to focus on dialing down on criticisms, which sometimes we don't even realize we are doing, and increasing comments that make your spouse feel special and loved.  A few compliments or acts of service can go a long way in a relationship. Also, the more we compliment our spouse, the more we end up appreciating them.

A Formal Occassion

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How about getting all dressed up for this date?  It can be fun sometimes to be a little more formal.  The Houston Grand Opera is a perfect date to do just that. Hold hands and enjoy the show!  You could even add dinner before at you favorite restaurant.  The shows and events change monthly.  Get all the details at  https://www.houstongrandopera.org/

510 Preston St, Houston, TX 77002

Relationship Reconnection:

Since we're being a little more formal.  Take time to discuss a more serious topic.  Talk about how you have worked together to overcome conflicts in your marriage and/or family.  This can be a little sensitive topic, but very beneficial. Conflicts can either strengthen or damage a relationship.  Learn from each other what has seemed to work to strengthen the two of you through conflicts and trials.

Holidays in Houston

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There always seems so much to do around the holidays, who has time for a date? You should, and the Visit Houston website has some great ideas. They have a list of fun holiday activities for you, your spouse and whole family. These activities range from plays, ballets and musicals to concerts and museums.

 For more information on what activities are close to you and work with your schedule visit: Holidays in Houston 

Revitalize that Relationship!
The holidays can be stressful and we can get caught up in the hustle of buying presents, traveling, making goodies and not going broke in the process. Remember the holidays are a time we get to celebrate with our families, especially your spouse. If you haven't already, come up with a tradition that is just for you and your spouse. Example include, making a gingerbread house together, or compete and have your children decide the winner, Christmas carol to friends, make goodies, see Christmas lights, etc. The possibilities are endless.