Friday Night Date Night

Once upon a time, we had only little children. Four children ten and under to be exact. Date nights were far and few between. In fact, when Matthew was little, we only went out as a couple once or twice a year. Those were lean years for us, living on one income, and paying a babysitter and going out just wasn't possible. I do remember the excitement of getting to go out on a date when he was about 3. The excitement turned to concern and disappointment as he developed a fever that day. I was not about to leave him when he had a fever. So, we improvised. I set up a little table in our bedroom and set it with a pretty tablecloth and china and candles. After I got Matthew to bed early, Lowell went for Chinese take out. We ate our cashew chicken dinner by candle light, realizing we were really grown up and had responsibilities; but, our love could still be celebrated.

Fast forward a few years. Grandma Judy would occassionally watch the children; but, as the family grew, they outnumbered her! By the time we had all four of our children, we had started going out once a month with close friends. Matthew and her teenage daughter watched all their kids and all our kids together. Over the years, we went out once a month on a double date. It was a time that we could enjoy each other and our friends.

For about four years now, Matthew has watched the kids for us for a Friday night date night. We don't always get to go; but, we really try to make it every Friday night. Last week, our date cost about $6. We went to Arby's with coupons and had sandwiches, drinks, and fries. A few weeks earlier, we went to Subway and shared a $5 footlong and a drink. Yes, over the years, we've had some very fancy dates and gone to very nice restaurants. That's not the season we're in right now; and, that's alright. I can enjoy my Honey for $6 just as well as for $30. It's the one on one that matters.

So, if you're married, plan to sneak away next Friday night, even for the dollar menu, if necessary. Can't get away because of your children? Plan an early bedtime for them. Feed them early. Threaten them to stay in bed! ~smile~ Then slip away to set up a table on the porch, in the living room, your bedroom, someplace different. Then serve your meal there. It doesn't matter so much what it is but who you're with.

Laura
In Love with My Man
After All These Years

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May I suggest?

Kindling and Rekindling