Raising a family is a very busy and often stressful time. With work, school, sports, family obligations, and social activities, often the best activity you do with your spouse is sleep! Taking time out to re-energize the bonds between the both of you is essential for your long-term happiness. Finding new and exciting adventures together will strengthen your bond and create lasting memories that you both will always cherish.

So, it’s time to get a sitter, friends or a family member to take the kids for the night or weekend, and set up a date for just the two of you. Even if this is only done once a year, there’s a variety of activities you and your spouse can do that are relaxing, stress-free, and all for you.

Breakfast in Bed or Bed and Breakfast?

I realize it’s a cliché but breakfast in bed is a wonderful way to start the day out right–it’s also one of the easiest things to squeeze into a busy schedule. Wake up half an hour before your significant other and quietly cook their favorite breakfast food and trimmings. Wake them up with a kiss on the cheek and breakfast at their bedside.

If you have a weekend, travel outside town and spend a night at a bed and breakfast. Before you think you’ll be merely sleeping at a stranger’s house, note that many of these businesses are grand and unforgettable affairs. Gorgeous log chateaus, converted farmsteads, or even castles, many of these will feature private hot tubs, fireplaces, and private patios. Some will even have amenities such as a spa, kayaking, canoeing, or private beaches. For a B&B near you, search at BedandBreakfast.com.

Make a Lunch or Dinner Date

A lunch date can be a simple way to steal a few moments of time with your spouse. You can make this a special surprise if that intrigues you and you know that’s okay with your spouse’s company.

Or, go on a “date”–plan a romantic dinner out or even a special dinner in your kitchen, taking the time to enjoy the company of your spouse over candlelight and soft music. Share memories that you two had together that meant something. Don’t talk about the kids or work (trust me, this will be difficult), but try to share only romantic feelings and past memories that made you fall in love in the first place.

Adrenaline Pumping Fun

If you and your spouse have ever wanted to do something different that will pump up your adrenaline, here are some great ideas to help you bond and experience something new and thrilling:

Cliff Jumping: I know this sounds extreme but this would be a rush for you both if you live in an area that has 1. water and 2. cliffs. Search online for some local spots you can drive to.

White Water Rafting: White water rafting is an adrenaline rushing experience like no other. If you live near mountains on either coast, this adventure is well worth the trip.

Balloon Riding: This can be an exhilarating and romantic experience to share with you and your spouse. Most cities will have a hot air balloon service.

Skydiving: Something everybody should try once in their lives! If you’ve never tried it before, the best and safest option is tandem skydiving, where a certified instructor will be with you the entire trip.

Bungee Jumping: If you and your spouse want a real rush, try bungee jumping. Most locations are in California, but a few other states have a bungee jumping business. You can find a list of locations at FunFix.com.

Local Attractions

There is a load of community events happening locally that can be found on your news or newspaper websites. Especially taking a walk in parks or walking through a museum together can be a fun experience. Make sure to hold hands as this can create closeness and the touch can establish intimacy. No, seriously, hold hands!

Another idea is to visit local parks or go downtown and take pictures of fascinating buildings, historical landscapes, museums, or landscapes that intrigue you. Switch taking pictures of each other in different areas of town or ask someone to take a picture of the two of you together. Make it a tradition of taking a picture of yourselves at the same spot once a year.

Photo by Il Ragioniere con due T/Flickr