Date Night-talking by the campfire in our backyard
If you’re visiting from Proverbs 31 Encouragement for Today Devotions, welcome!
When Dale and I were raising our five children, we maybe had three official “date nights,” ever. I know, it’s hard to believe. There were a lot reasons why we didn’t. I don’t think we ever discussed these things. It was just what we did because. . .
~ The cost
~ Where do you find a babysitter for five children- that you trust? (Family didn’t live nearby)
~ At home date nights were more romantic
~ He worked hard all day, he didn’t need to go out to be fulfilled- he just needed his wife-happy
~I just needed him fully present and my basic needs were met
~ I didn’t like leaving our kids-(I know, it’s crazy but true)
When we went out to eat, or saw a movie, the kids came with us. When we went anywhere, they were with us. But everywhere we went, Dale and I were always on a continual “date night.” Even while feeding and talking to all five daughters, Dale and I were totally engaged with one another. Always touching, watching each other, and listening intently to the others’ every move and thought.
Some nights after the kids went to bed we had work to do. We did it together. I sat right next to him and we worked, side by side.
Many nights after the kids went to bed (with phones, television, and computers off) we talked for hours on end. We never ever got tired of talking and we still haven’t.
Some nights we watched movies together, side by side. Often one of our girls would get out of bed and come to us because they couldn’t sleep and lay in our arms. We loved it–aren’t they adorable when they’re sleeping?
Some nights we went to bed early and had a better “date night” than if went had gone to the finest restaurant and walked the ocean shore at sunset.
I never once regretted not going out on scheduled “date nights.” Raising a family is a lot of work. There are stresses that constantly threaten the family. So, believe me, you need date night but maybe just not the world’s idea of going out for your “date night.” The greatest need of a happy marriage is Christ in the center. Then living together with a oneness mind set, being romantically engaged, and loving each other extravagantly- every day.
Here are a few Date Night Ideas:
1. Make a campfire and talk about the deeper things of Christ (oh yeah)
2. Stargazing on a blanket (spring and summer) talking about future dreams
3. Read a book to each other in front of the fireplace (fall and winter)
4. Make your favorite desert (great cake recipe) and eat by candle light
5. Listen to worship music and worship Him together
6. Pray together
7. Write a letter telling him all the reasons why you fell in love with him and how he has fulfilled your dreams and read it to him. (Then you can discuss how you’re going to pay the credit cards off… just joking or not!)
8. Cook his favorite meal, make it special and enjoy after the kids go to bed
9. Wear his shirt as a nightgown, then watch a good movie in bed.
10. Tell me your idea!
What would be your perfect date night? Tell me in the comment section below, it will enter your name in the drawing to win my downloadable marriage message called Extravagant Love and a $20 gift certificate to Target for your date night!