Keep the Romance Alive
by Larry J. Leech II

How many men can honestly say they love their wife more today than the day they married her? Whether or not you are among that blessed group, how many men make a conscious effort not only to romance their wife, but also to take the much-needed time to teach their children, particularly boys, the ways of marital bliss?

Here are seven tips to think about:

Make time. Make time for each other. It’s too easy to get caught up in the fast-paced life we must all live, especially when you have children. It’s important to have a night that is dedicated to your spouse. You may not be able to go out on a date every week, but on that night, let the children know that tonight is mom and dad’s night, even if it is just watching your favorite television show together.

Show affection. Don’t be afraid to be affectionate with your wife in front of the children. They will find comfort and safety in the fact that mom and dad love each other. Also, displaying affection models for them what true love is.

Do the little things. Do the things that go the extra mile to show that you are deeply in love with your wife. Every woman is different, so do what you know your wife would love. Some of the things my wife loves: when I buy her snacks for work, put gas in her car, and take silly pictures of myself with my cell phone and send them to her with a cute caption.

Talk. Tell her how much you love her, cherish her, appreciate her. And why. We know women are wired differently. They not only like to hear these things; they need to hear them. Telling her these things is like pouring water on a desert flower.

Listen. Turn off the game, the race or whatever sporting event, sitcom or reality show you may be watching, and listen to what she is saying. Our wives need to know they are more important than anything we may be watching on television.

Show interest. My wife tells me frequently that she appreciates the fact that I have interest and encourage her in her hobbies. She is a creative person and loves to paint, crochet, quilt, sew, bake, scrapbook and make cards. Over the years, I learned quite a bit about each of these hobbies. I can carry on a conversation with her about them and understand the skill needed in each. Conversely, my wife has taken interest in my hobbies of writing, hockey and NASCAR.

Surprise her. Leave a sweet message on her voice mail at work. My wife loves when I do this. Show up at work with a cup of her favorite coffee. Fix her favorite dinner one night. These are little things, but remember, they count, too! Or think big and plan a vacation, either for just the two of you or the entire family.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, just some to prompt you to come up with creative ideas of your own.

Happy romancing.

While still romancing the love of his life, Larry J. Leech II enjoys watching and listening to how his son, Chris, is romancing the love of his life.

For more on this topic, check out 101 Ways to Spoil Your Wife, by Ron Brown, and 101 Nights of Grrreat Romance, by Laura Corn.

How are you and your wife keeping the romance alive?

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