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

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphots

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.

Farmers Market

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There is nothing quite like a visit to a farmers market.  Well, how about visiting a local, permanent, 20,000 sq. ft. farmers market that is boasting the freshest and finest produce available.  This produce is not only the best, it's also sold for the lowest price possible.  You can shop around for produce or just walk around and see what's in season. For more information, visit http://www.caninoproduce.com/

2520 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77009

Relationship Reconnection:

On this date, it's time to really practice tolerance and compassion.  One way to do this is by opening up to each other and really listening. Allow one another to express their emotions without judging or trying to fix things.  Simply listen and try to understand. Rather than being reactive, just listen with an empathetic ear.  As you both practice this, you'll begin to focus on each other more and really reconnect.

Day at the Beach

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How about a day trip or even a Christmas parade at the beach.  Take a ferry over and spend a day at Crystal Beach.  There are endless fun things to do, including a parade down the beach at Christmas time.  Santa himself comes to the beach for this parade.  Check out more for dates and schedules at http://bolivarchamberofcommerce.com/crystaland-christmas/  



Relationship Reconnection:

Many times couples are so busy with life that they don't take the time to communicate about feelings and needs that are most important to them.  Couples that don't deeply communicate often create emotional distance between themselves which can lead to our deepest feelings being neglected or pushed aside. Now is your time to really deeply communicate. Take time to open up about needs and desires in your marriage. You'll see that intimacy will increase and trust will be improved.

Great Views

Photo courtesy of chasetower.com

What is more romantic than overlooking the city with the one you love?  Head on over to the JP Morgan Chase Tower observation deck to get some spectacular views of the city.  The tower offers the highest public view of Houston from the sky lobby on the 60th floor.  It is open Monday - Friday from 9:00 PM to 5 PM.  There are many eating or snacking options in the building too.  To find out more by visit www.chasetower.com

600 Travis St. Houston TX 77002


 Relationship Reconnection:

There is nothing that can improve a relationship as much as vulnerability.  As difficult as it is to be truly authentic and vulnerable, the rewards are worth it.  To really build trust in a relationship, vulnerability is necessary.  Now it's your time to practice vulnerability and improving your trust.  Be open and talk about things that have been difficult or sensitive to open up about before.  Ask your spouse to do the same.  As you both become a little more vulnerable, your trust will increase and you'll be able to reconnect in a new way.

Spa Night In

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos

The colder winter months can take a toll on our skin and hair causing dryness.  For this date, go ahead and buy a few scented oils and/or lotions and pamper each other.  Having a spa night and giving each other massages is a great way to hydrate, relax, and unwind.





Relationship Reconnection:

Now if a couple massage and spa night doesn't say reconnect, I don't know what does.  It's time to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate those feelings. Physical touch can do wonders for reconnecting and improving your relationship.

A Little Snappy

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos

For this date all you need is your spouse, a camera, and the scenery around you.  It's time to practice your photography skills.  Rather you take photos of each other, the beautiful scenery, or set up a tripod and take pictures of you as a couple.  This is a fun way to spend time with each other and create some beautiful
memories too.

Relationship Reconnection:

Since we are on a photo shoot here, let's talk about body language.  Our body language says a lot about us.  Leaning in when our spouse is talking or using eye contact shows a more genuine interest in what they have to say.  A simple pat on the leg or arm around the waist can speak volumes.  Take some time as you're out and about photographing, to use body language to express your love and appreciation for your spouse. Research shows that body language can show how much you value your spouse.

Enjoy the Colors

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphots

Enjoy the fall leaves together.  I love the vibrant colors of leaves in the fall.  Take a drive, a walk along a scenic trail, or find a local park.  Enjoy the crispness in the air and the beauty that fall brings.  Pack a thermos of hot cider or hot cocoa and sip as you enjoy the views.

Relationship Reconnection:

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it's a great time to focus on appreciation.  Did you know that being appreciative of your spouse and the little things they do can can help cultivate trust and respect for them also.  Research shows that appreciation and gratitude is a skill that anyone can cultivate in themselves.  When we make the effort to appreciate our spouse and use simple words like please and thank you, gratitude and appreciation will soon radiate back to us.

Ice-Skate Date

Let’s bring the winter to Houston! OK, I know it is almost impossible for that to happen. But, what if I told you there was a way?

Try Ice-skating with your spouse. Don’t know how? Take some ice-skating lessons. At Ice Skate memorial City, there is a chance to go and experience a winter day. The Link below is information on a really great place to go ice-skating!

http://www.iceskatememorialcity.com/

303 Memorial City Way #902, Houston, TX 77024

Relationship Reconnection:

While you and your spouse are ice-skating, if it is possible to hold hands while not falling do it! Sometimes life gets so crazy that we forget about the sweet physical touch of holding hands. Here is a chance to hold on for dear life if you have trouble skating! Also while you are together communicate about your everyday life. But most of all, have fun together! 

Trampoline Park

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You and your spouse deserve some fun. Head over to Jumping World in Houston. It’s a trampoline park lined with trampolines and foam pits. Enjoy jumping until your hearts content, and getting some exercise while you’re at it! They have great hours and prices so check out their website here.

14147 Northwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77040

Revitalize that Relationship!

Stay healthy together. A way to help keep a relationship strong is to have a strong body. Exercise and eating a balanced diet can help improve moods which can positively affect the relationship you have with your spouse. It is also more time to get to spend together exercising and coming up with fun meals. 

Quality Time Together

Take some time to just relax and be together. Watch a favorite movie, play a card game or just talk with each other. A fun video to watch together is Weird Things All Couples Do found here. This channel has a few videos about couples, and could be something relaxing to do together. Find time to be together, that is the key to a successful date. 

Revitalize that Relationship!

Sexual intimacy is an important part of a healthy marriage. Sexual relations isn’t just about the physical, but is very mental and emotional. Plan a night when you can spend time together without interruptions or other engagements. If you have children, find a babysitter and get a hotel room or arrange time so you can be together. 

Skate Park

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos

This date is all about tricks.  Visit the Lee and Joe Jamail Skate Park and watch others perform some pretty cool tricks. You may not be a skater yourself, but this skate park offers much to see.  It's one of a kind and boasts a 30,000 square foot indoor facility. You can check out more at http://houstonparksboard.org/projects/past/lee_and_joe_jamail_skatepark/  Grab a snack and just watch others be daring and perform their tricks.

Relationship Reconnection:

Now, this is no trick.  A great way to reconnect in your marriage is to spend time together.  It really is not about what you do, but who you do it with.  Enjoy each others company; talk, hold hands, laugh, and just be together.  You'll find that just some time alone can be just what your relationship needed.

For the Birds

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos

For this date, take a little day trip and check out Bolivar Flats Shoebird Sanctuary.  You can find out more here at www.houstonaudubon.org  and look under sanctuaries.  This is a combination of salt marsh, mud flats, and beach.  You can walk on the beach and watch the birds for free.  This could be romantic, especially around sunset.


Relationship Reconnection:

In a marriage, it's easy to fall into the trap of taking each other for granted.  Today, make your spouse know they really matter to you.  Switch the focus for the day from you to them.  Your wants, what you have to talk about, to your spouse and their needs, wants, and let them do the talking.  Focusing on our spouses needs and desires is a great way to strengthen your marriage.

At the Zoo

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos

There is so much to see and experience at the Houston zoo.  There are many exhibits and experiences available.  Go see your favorite animal and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.  Visit www.houstonzoo.org to find out more.


Relationship Reconnection:

Relationships are strengthened by seeking out the positive in each other.  See how many good things you can think of about each other.  When we focus on the good in a person, we are much less likely to become irritated or annoyed with them.  Focusing on their positive qualities can help you reconnect and foster love and compassion.

Artsy

Photo courtesy of khunaspix@freedigitalphoto

Let's get a little artsy for this date.  How about visiting the Menil Collection?  This is a great Art Museum with many different collections. Making art accessible to others is vital to the Menil mission, for this reason, no admission is charged, and all public programs are free.  Check out the website here, https://www.menil.org  for more information on exhibits, events, collections, etc.

Relationship Reconnection:

The power of empathy is key to a strong relationship.  Empathy requires compassion and compassion builds a bond.  This bond is what holds a relationship together.  One way to practice empathy is to give genuine attention when our spouse is speaking.  When you are genuinely listening, you are focusing on them and taking action to truly understand them.  Listen without focusing on your own response.  Truly listen.

The Patio Date

This will probably be one of your most relaxing date nights! I find it hard to find time to have conversation with my spouse because I of work, kids, and everyday life. Sometimes I think, “We will never be able to go out EVER AGAIN!” But I found that the most time my spouse and I have with just the two of us, is when its bedtime for our little one. I am sure that is how a lot of people are who may have children.

Try the patio date!  Put the kids to bed, or lock them inside the house.  Yes, inside!  Go out to your patio with hot chocolate, or your favorite drink, and strike up a conversation.  This will give you the time to just be together and catch up on each other’s lives. It is also very convenient! Anyone couple can do this because it is so simple!

Relationship Reconnection:

While spending time with your spouse outside try to really connect with them by listening and being attentive. Talk about your past, your present, and your future. It is always good to plan out some of your future and also reminisce about the good times in your past. Make the conversation meaningful.

Roller Skating

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Roller skating rinks used to be a very popular place to hang out, but then they were replaced with ice skating rinks. Lucky for you and your spouse, roller rinks are coming back. There are many to choose from in the Houston area. However, The Skate Machine offers adult soul skate nights on Sundays, and great hours the rest of the weekend.

For more information visit: The Skate Machine

Address:  13831 Longview St, Houston, TX 77015

Revitalize that Relationship!

In order to have fun and enjoy your spouse, you need to make sure you aren’t holding anything against them. Try and be as forgiving as possible when it comes to your relationship. Everyone is going to make mistakes in life. When you are finding it difficult to forgive, ask your spouse for help. Communication can be a big key to forgiveness. 

Safari

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos

Have you ever dreamed of taking a safari?  Now you can and it's just over 30 min. from Houston.  Bayou Wildlife Zoo offers a safari-like adventure throughout the park.  You can see and feed animals from all over the world.  They roam freely across 80 acres of natural habitat. Find out more here.
http://www.bayouwildlifezoo.com/




Relationship Reconnection:  

Since you're getting an up close and personal view of the animals, it's time to get up close and personal with your relationship. According to Dr. John Gottman, it's important for couples to solve their solvable problems.  Working together to overcome situational dilemmas such as intimate preferences, who does what around the house, etc., can help alleviate tension in a marriage.  Accepting differences and habits, forgiving shortfalls and mistakes, and working out practical solutions for disagreements can improve your marriage and help you work together as couples should.

Oh So Sweet

photo courtesy of Whittaya Phonsawat at freedigitalphotos

This date will be sweet!  It's all about a little or a lot of indulgence, you decide.  Take your sweetie over to Shipley Do-nuts for some mouth watering donuts. Check out their website http://www.shipleydonuts.com/ and then click on store locator.  There are five stores in Houston.  See which one is closest to you. Make life a little sweeter and enjoy a treat together.




Relationship Reconnection:

"Do Nut" forget to thank your spouse.  Thank yous are always welcome in a relationship and a great way to diffuse or just reconnect.  Thank your spouse for everything, even the little things they do.  No one will tire of being thanked.  It fosters an atmosphere of gratitude and makes them desire to keep doing things for you.  Making your relationship a little sweeter, one thank you at a time.

Cruisin

Photo courtesy of boattours.poha.com

See Houston cruisin on the water for this date.  How about a free 90 minute round trip cruise along the Houston ship channel.  The Port of Houston Authority offers tours free of charge, but reservations are required.  Find out more here. http://boattours.poha.com/boattour/default.aspx  Just click on
boat tour faq for all the details.

Relationship Reconnection:

The power of positive thinking is important in relationships too.  We cannot rely on our relationships to make us happy and positive, but being happy and positive can improve our relationships.  Take time to talk about all the good/positive things in your life and relationship.  Being positive helps you look at things optimistically and gives you the fuel required to overcome challenges.  These are both important reasons to be positive and think positive in and about your relationship. This is a great way to reconnect.

iFly- Indoor Skydiving

People love to skydive. I never really understood why, but I wanted to know what all the hype was about. If you have had similar feelings check out iFly Indoor Skydiving. There is no stress of jumping out of a plane, or worrying about a parachute. With indoor skydiving, you are wearing a jump suit, googles and helmet, and are put in a vertical wind tunnel. It is safe, fun and gives you the same adrenaline rush as real skydiving. This is a great date to do with your spouse, and will give both of you and instant high for the rest of the day, and maybe even a few days after.

For more information visit: iFly- Indoor Skydiving

Relationship Reconnection!

Relationships have their ups and downs. It is part of life, and part of the learning experience. How do you view your spouse during easy and difficult times? How well do you handle positive and negative situations with your spouse? Discuss these questions with each other, and see where improvement can be made together. 

Festival of Lights!

This date will help you notice and accept bids of connection. A “bid for connection” is when one partner attempts to engage the other in conversation, for example, by initiating a discussion or asking a question. The more bids for connection you accept, the stronger your relationship will become.

What better way to discuss this while having a beautiful view at the Festival of Lights. Through Nov. 14 – Jan. 10 you can visit the festival of lights in Houston. There is ice-skating, artic ice slide, light displays and nightly entertainment. This will be a good time for you and your spouse to enjoy the upcoming holidays and each other’s company.

Here is a link with more information:

https://www.moodygardens.com/festivaloflights/

Relationship Reconnection:

While on your date night, ask each other meaningful questions to engage in conversation. It’s that simple. This will allow your spouse to know that you truly care. You can make a game out of it. Play 20 questions or two truths and a lie. More importantly have fun!

Library Activities- Beyond the Check-out

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There is more to do in a library besides checking out items. Below are a list of activities to do together that will cost nothing! This can also be done in a bookstore, and while there, grab some drinks or pastries.

1.     Find your favorite book as a child, then read them to each other.

2.     Look through some cookbooks and find a meal you would enjoy making together.

3.     Pick out a joke book and share the best ones with each other.

4.     Choose 3-4 random books. Have a conversation with each other, but only use lines from those books.

For information on your local libraries visit: Houston Public Library

Revitalize that Relationship!

Remember that marriage is give and take. Make sure to find time to talk with your spouse about the balance in your relationship. One person should not have to carry the whole load. Discuss the following points with each other:

-What do I do for my spouse on a daily, weekly, monthly basis?

-What does my spouse do for me on a daily, weekly, monthly basis?

-What do I appreciate most about my spouse?

-Ask your spouse, Where can I improve in our relationship?

Fall in Love, with This Questionnaire

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Okay, so you aren’t really going to fall in love with the questionnaire, but hopefully be more in love with your spouse. A study was done to explore intimacy levels between two strangers. During this study couples had a list of questions to ask and answer. They rated their intimacy level with their fellow participant before and after the questionnaire. Many couples rated their intimacy levels higher after engaging in the questionnaire together. It takes 20-30 minutes to ask each other these questions. It is a great way to spend time together, and get to know each other all over again.

Here is the link to the questions: 36 Questions

Tis the Season

Photo courtesy of DavidCastiloDominici@freedigitalphotos.net

How about getting a little head start on your Christmas shopping?  Head on over to the Galleria Mall there's shops a plenty and much more to do too. Enjoy shopping, eating, ice skating, or just walking around together hand in hand enjoying the sites of the season. You can find more information here http://www.simon.com/mall/the-galleria  

Relationship Reconnection:

Do you trust your spouse?  Trust allows for shared power in a relationship and is critical for a strong marriage.  It's time to influence one another.  Buy each other a special treat and enjoy them together.  Learning to rely on each others influence can build trust and help your marriage grow stronger.

Tranquil and Relaxing

Photo courtesy of uptown-houston

This date is all about relaxing and enjoying a little tranquility.  Visit the water wall near Williams Tower in the Galleria. You can check out information here  http://www.uptown-houston.com/news/page/water-wall-park  Pack up a picnic and enjoy each others company for the afternoon.

Relationship Reconnection:

Your spouse has a lot of admirable qualities.  It's your job to point them out.  Take turns and set the timer on your phone and list as many qualities for each other as you can in 60 seconds. Highlighting each others strengths can contribute to the health of your relationship!

Service

This date night is a little different then the regular. This date requires service and selflessness. Together, you and your spouse will do random acts of kindness all over town. Even the littlest things can make a big impact in someone’s life. I have compiled a list that might be something you and your spouse would like to do together.  

• Leave kind notes
• Bake cookies for the neighbors
•   Visit the old folk’s home
•   Mow your neighbor’s lawn or rake their leaves

There are several things that can be done to help your community and neighbors. You will be surprised how great it feels to help others.

Relationship Reconnection:

Before, during, after, or whatever floats your boat, Try to know what is happening in your partner’s world. Sometimes we get so caught up with our own lives, we forget about people that are most important to us. Really communicate by asking each other questions and truly reconnect.

Let's Get Painting

The Mad Potter

Discover your inner artist.Take your date to this pottery studio and design and paint your own addition to your living room, bedroom or kitchen.They host date nights on Fridays and welcome the opportunity to share your desire to try something new.       http://themadpotter.com/

Relationship Connection:

Getting outside of your comfort zone allows you to see another side of your partner. Becoming vulnerable to new experiences keeps us humble and able to have fun and laugh together. It is nice to be on an even playing field with your partner where both are learning something new for the first time.

The Battleship Date

Battleship Texas

3527 Independence Parkway South

La Porte TX 77571

Neighborhood:Clear Lake/Bay Area Houston

Phone: 281-479-2431 x236     

Spend some time exploring a piece of history. The Texas is the last of the battleships to participate in World War l and ll. She started her life on May 18, 1912 and has been officially anchored since 1983 as a museum for the public to see and enjoy.

Take your date to explore this battleship and marvel in the history it contains.Enjoy the area and grab a bite to eat either before of after. 

Relationship Reflection:

You may have ancestors that had a part in this great time. Take some time to dive into your past and see who you discover. This will bring you closer by knowing more of who you are and where exactly you've come from.

Urban War Zone Paintball

Retrieved from:  http://www.urbanwarzonepaintball.com/pictures/

Time to enter the battle zone.  Take your spouse paint balling for a fun new adventure.  Get padded up and get ready to fight for your lives.  Paintball is a fun activity that will have you laughing, running around and hiding.

For more information on paint balling visit:
http://www.urbanwarzonepaintball.com/pictures/

Turn Toward Each Other:
After the date ask your spouse what they need from you.  Talk about what support they need, and how you can best help them accomplish their goals. Sharing with each other ways in which you can support each other, will keep your marriage fresh and alive.

Cupcake Wars

Have you ever watched the show Cupcake wars on Food Network?  Turn this show into your favorite at home date night.  This date night can be done with each other or with a group.  Create your own cupcake wars by buying a bunch of ingredients that would be fun to make into cupcakes.  Remember to get decorations as well to make it more fun.  Give yourself a theme and a time limit to cook 12 cupcakes.  Take the cupcakes over to a neighbors house at the end of the date, and have them judge the cupcakes according to: best taste, best use of theme, best appearance.  This date will have you using your creative side, and can be very fun!

Turn toward each other:
After the activity portion of the date, cuddle up in some blankets and watch cupcake wars on Netflix.  Spend time choosing your favorite cupcakes, and enjoying the show.

Huff & Puff

Huff & Puff

http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend

Just a little ways out side of Houston is Brazos Bend Park. While Brazos’ main attraction is camping, there are a number of hiking trails that are easily accessible with paying nothing more than a daily entry fee of $7, since it is a state park. The grounds are open daily and offer weather updates on their Facebook page.

Their hiking trails are for the adventurous couple since they are a little more challenging, prepare to huff and puff your way up the hill, in a good way. The views are total worth it!

https://www.facebook.com/Brazos-Bend-State-Park-Texas-Parks-and-Wildlife-306833977750/timeline/

http://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/pwd_br_p4504_0110q.pdf

Huffing and puffing is a part of your hike. Huffing and puffing is a part of our lives. When you get to the top and look down at the perfect views of the alligators, tell your partner what makes you huff and puff in life. Is there something they can do or you can do to release the stress? After you’ve shared a stress or two, share a Hug and Puff. What makes you so happy you want to hug your partner? What makes you so puffed with pride that you’re happy to call them yours?