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My last post was all about finding your spouse in the every day moments. Sometimes we can’t go out, but we still need to take the time to reconnect. In busy seasons of life, I encourage you to plan a date at home for after your kids fall asleep.

I know it sounds easier said than done. Believe me, we have our bedtime struggles just like any other parents, but it is possible.

Snacks and a TV Show

This is our go-to “date night” that I talked about in my last post. Buy or make your favorite snacks, or experiment with a new recipe, and lay it all out on your best dishes. Put on comfy clothes or pajamas and watch a show together. Start a new series and make it a point to watch it together every week. My husband and I looked forward to our weekly date nights as we waited for the next episode of our show to premiere.

Movie Sleepover

For this date, clear a big space on your living room floor and lay out blankets, cushions, and pillows. Make a comfy “floor bed” in front of your TV, and rent a new movie or choose an old favorite. Gather your popcorn and snacks, turn off the lights, and enjoy! We actually do this as a family sometimes too, but Jeremy and I will occasionally do this by ourselves.

Milk and Cookies

Sometimes the simplest things can have the most meaning. Sitting next to each other, eating cookies, in silence or not. Just take the time. Leave your phones in another room. Turn off the TV. Look at each other, ask each other questions. Talk about your dreams, goals, what inspires you. Make the most of your time together.

Game Night

Jeremy loves to play new board games. I think we buy more games than we actually play them, but some of our best memories from our first year of marriage were playing board games together.

Some games we like include:

Questions and Answers

Most of these date night ideas involve connecting with each other on a deeper level. If you get stuck and are unsure of what to talk about, or you don’t want to talk about the same old things, ask each other thoughtful questions. Make each other think. I like this list of questions: https://www.marriage365.org/blog/35-date-night-questions-to-ask-your-spouse

Whatever you choose to do, make it a time of relaxation and connection. You may not have time for a long, fancy date night out, but you can make the most out of the time you have at home together.