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15 New & Improved Date Night Ideas for the New Year
MarriageTips & Ideas

15 New & Improved Date Night Ideas for the New Year

by Karly Wood
written by Karly Wood

Having healthy time away from your kids with your partner or spouse is necessary to being a sane human being, but often times it gets put on the back burner due to time, finances or just pure exhaustion. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to have a great date night! Here’s a list of some new and creative ideas for your next date night.

date night ideas

1. Yoga Together

True, 99% of us will not be performing the pose seen in the photo above, but you don’t have to be a yogi to have a date night together. The practice of yoga is a perfect match to a date night with your partner, where you can each spend time developing awareness and mindfulness (in addition to stretching and challenging your body)––perfect aspects for improving your relationship! After your class, hit up a smoothie bar or snag a healthy meal.

date night ideas

2. Get Amused

Amusement parks aren’t just for kids––they’re for parents too! I know my husband and I thoroughly enjoy a trip to our local amusement park without kiddos because we finally get to enjoy the “big kid rides.” You most definitely do not have to spend hundreds of dollars for a ticket to a giant park, especially if your town has a smaller version as an option. You can also hit up the state or county fair depending on the season. The only requirement? HAVE FUN!

date night ideas

3. Lessons

Whether you’ve been dying to improve your ballroom dancing skills, brush up on cooking or want to learn to ride horses, signing up for lessons can be a great way to have regular date nights! Not only will you gain some mad skills on a hobby you love, you’ll be bonding with your partner too. Just make sure it’s something you’re both interested in before signing up!

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future husband
Faith

A Letter To My Daughter’s Future Husband

by Amanda Foust
written by Amanda Foust

To my daughter’s future husband:

It doesn’t seem like that long ago I was dreaming of what it would be like to meet the man of my dreams and spend forever with him. I was the hopeless romantic who wrote letters to her future husband and prayed for his heart starting at the age of 12. I was so blessed to have found a man better than my young mind could have imagined at the time, and here I am now thinking and praying for the husband of my little girl.

My family has always been one who considers new members an equal part of the family. There are no outsiders just because of the “in-law” label. This has taught me the importance of praying for you in advance. If you’re going to be an equal part of this family, I want the best for you now and always!

Marrying into a family is intimidating, but I want to reassure you that no matter what you think about all of us, my daughter is worth it. You see, she is loved by all she meets. Truly. From the very first moment she walks into a room, she captures the attention of everyone with her chocolate drop eyes and sincere, sparkling smile. She can be trusted to offer genuine compassion and she’s the strongest girl I know. She is still developing her personality, but there are certain things that you know are going to stick around. Thankfully, there isn’t much of anything I could warn you about!

My ultimate prayer is that God will prepare you to be the man my daughter has prayed for. 

It’s hard to fathom the impact you will have on her life. Right now I see a little girl so full of life and imagination, but one day she will see the world for its brokenness and pain, and I no longer will be able to protect her from that. But you will carry her even after I’m gone. From the time I let her go on your wedding day, you will do life together and be united as one. Though I hope she gets the fairytale she deserves, I am raising her to know that marriage is hard work. I pray that you both are willing to put in the time and sacrifice it takes. I pray she honors, respects, and cares for you and that you return the same selfless service to her as well.

Right now, you are being formed and molded by your parents. My hope is that they have introduced you to the gospel and God’s plan for salvation so that you both can continue building a foundation on the Lord for your individual spiritual development and for the example that you will set for my grandchildren.

I ask that you lead with humbleness, give generously, and love fiercely.

Until you meet one day, my husband and I vow to continue leading our daughter to love herself and others. And we both commit to an authentic love story to be a powerful example for the both of you.

Blessings and love always,

Your future mother-in-law

 

future husband

Amanda Foust

Amanda Foust

Amanda is a wife, mother, writer/editor, and certified life coach. Pen and paper make her spirit come alive. She spends her creative time reading, decorating, and handwriting fonts. Her world is better with an assortment of chocolate and a stack of books packed and ready for travel. She works each day to be a creative maker and a light bringer. You can find more of her writing at Downs, Ups & Teacups and TheDailyPositive.com.
Amanda Foust

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9 Tips On Postpartum Sex
LifestyleMarriage

9 Tips For Easing Into Postpartum Sex

by Ellice Vargas
written by Ellice Vargas

As with so much in motherhood, the topic of postpartum sex is not one that is talked about often. Unfortunately this can leave new mamas feeling unsure or even embarrassed with no one to talk to as they navigate this new season. How quickly you feel about jumping back between the sheets will be different for everyone, and while there is no rule of thumb, there are definitely some tips and tricks to make this a smooth transition for you and your partner.

9 Tips On Postpartum Sex

 

1. Get The All Clear

You are probably not even thinking about getting back in the saddle, just weeks having given birth, and whether you have a vaginal birth or c-section you have a lot of healing to do. However, if you are gearing up to jump back in the sack, make sure you have the all clear from the doctor before you do. Also, just because the doctor signs you off that doesn’t mean you need to be in any hurry. It may look fine down under but it certainly doesn’t mean it feels like it.

2. Make A Plan

Unless you are hoping for Irish twins in your near future you may need to have a think about what your birth control plans are. Oh, yes, something you haven’t needed to worry about for quite some time! Remember, even though many women don’t get pregnant while breastfeeding, this isn’t a reliable form of contraception (I personally know of 2 friends with Irish twins who used breastfeeding as a form of birth control. Oops). All of your options can be discussed with your practitioner at your first postpartum appointment.

3. Relax

It’s been a while since you last did the deed and although childbirth is completely natural, your body has gone through some major changes. Chances are you are feeling a little overwhelmed by all the needs of your new baby and winding down does’t come as easily these days. Make sure the baby is down for the night and help yourself to a glass of wine to ease any tension you might be feeling.

4. Take Your Time

There is no rush when it comes to postpartum sex. Take your time to get comfortable. Start out with oily massages, a candlelit bath or a spicy make out session to warm things up.

5. Lube It Up

While lubricant may not have been the first thing on your bedroom to-do list prior to having a baby, it very well may be now. A lot of moms, those who are breastfeeding in particular, complain of vaginal dryness postpartum. Keep some lube handy to help ease any discomfort and even increase the pleasure for both you and your partner.

6. Talk It Out

Now is definitely the time to speak up and tell your significant other what’s feeling good, and what’s not working for you. Experimentation is the name of the game during postpartum, so don’t be afraid to change up your positions to what works best.

7. Watch Out For Milk

Nursing moms may experience some breast leakage during sex. If this isn’t a mood killer for you or your partner, no need to worry. If you are concerned about this putting a halt to your lovemaking, you can simply throw on some sexy lingerie and keep the bra on while your at “it” to keep the mood going. Another option is to keep a towel handy for quick clean up.

8. Do Your Exercises

Remember the Kegels your doctor was telling you to do during your pregnancy? Well it’s not time to stop them just yet! Kegel exercises can help restore muscle tone to the vagina, which can also help make your lovemaking more pleasurable. A sure way to get those exercises in is during sex itself.

9. Give It Another Go

If at first it’s not rocking your world, then take a step back and give it another go at a later time. Just think of those as warm up rounds while you get ready for the real deal. Find creative ways to be intimate that don’t cause you any discomfort.

Ellice Vargas

Ellice Vargas

I'm a British gal and mama to one sweet daughter. I love a good DIY project, interior design and photography. When I'm not writing for Life As Mama, I'm traveling as much as I can with my little family and filling up my camera roll with snapshots of our life.
Ellice Vargas

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alone time
Family

6 Ways To Find Alone Time When You’re Parents

by Ellice Vargas
written by Ellice Vargas

Alone time can be hard to come by once you become parents, especially in the early days when the kids needs are all consuming. Just ask the parent who hasn’t peed in private in over 3 years. If you can’t even go to the bathroom alone, how on earth are you supposed to find time to spend with your significant other? But of course, this precious alone time is crucial to any marriage and relationship. While your sticky fingered, juice spilling chatterboxes are a whole lot of fun, here are a few ways your can escape them for a while and steal away some one-on-one time with your lover.

6 Ways To Find Alone Time When You Are Parents

 

1. Utilize Kid Free Time

Take advantage of any kid free time to spend together. If you both work, then meet up for lunch once a week, or drop the kids off at the gym daycare and workout together for an hour. These times during a busy week may be all the alone time you get. Remember, spending time together doesn’t have to always be romantic dinner, just as long as you are together.

2. Close The Door

As ridiculous as this sound sometimes all you need to do is close the door. Of course, make sure your kids, especially little ones, are in a safe place before going into a different room. Then, simply shut the door. It’s amazing what just a few minutes of conversation where a tiny human didn’t ask for Goldfish 364 times during your 2 minute conversation can do.

3. Pillow Talk

My husband and I do most of our talking before bed every night. Even though we are exhausted we make sure to put down our phones. Yes that means no late night Instagram scrolling. We manage to catch up before we pass out for the night. I treasure those times and I am sometimes shocked how late we actually stay up chatting because we suddenly have so much to catch up on.

4. Simple Is Good

Sometimes I find myself waiting until I have a “better moment” to connect with my spouse. But life gets in the way and sure enough often it’s been days since we have sat down and had a proper conversation. This often leads to double booked plans, hectic schedules and endless frustration. Sometimes you just have to take advantage of the moment to make time for each other. That might just simply cooking dinner while the kids watch a T.V show or a quick make-out sesh in the car when everyone has gone inside. What, you haven’t done that?

5. Take Advantage Of Naps

Speaking of sleep, if your kids are still napping, that’s your golden ticket (at least on the weekend when your man is home). Nap time may seem like the best time to tackle your to-do list, but more often then not those things can wait. Turn on a movie and break out the forbidden snacks, or take a romantic bath. The options during those precious hours are endless!

6. Get A Sitter

When those stolen moments and short conversations are proving not to be enough, bring in help. Call up a sitter, or ask the Grandparents to watch the kiddos for a few hours, or even better, overnight. Every once in a while you need to crank the alone time up a notch.

Ellice Vargas

Ellice Vargas

I'm a British gal and mama to one sweet daughter. I love a good DIY project, interior design and photography. When I'm not writing for Life As Mama, I'm traveling as much as I can with my little family and filling up my camera roll with snapshots of our life.
Ellice Vargas

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10 Creative Ways To Show Your Hubby Love
CuteHeartwarming

10 Creative Ways To Show Your Hubby Love

by Leena Kollar
written by Leena Kollar

Your husband is hardworking, supportive and not bad to look at. He’s your best friend. Your partner in crime. Your better half. But as the old adage goes, “Marriage takes work.” Luckily, keeping the spark alive is easier than we think. Each and every day, you can show your husband you love him by doing small things. These little ways of showing him love will make him feel appreciated, and he’ll be likely to reciprocate. This is the way marriage should work- like a tennis match. You hit a few “balls” his direction, and he returns the favor.

Try one of these creative ways to say “I love you” to your hubby, and watch how your marriage grows stronger as a result.

1. Bring Him His Morning Coffee

If your husband is a coffee drinker, he’ll love starting his day with you bringing him his daily cup of joe. You don’t have to do it every day, but if he’s running late one morning, or he had a bad day the day before, you’ll lift his spirits with this small act of service.

2. Post Something Nice About Him

Many women (me included) use social media as an outlet for venting about their husbands. But instead, use your social networks to sing your hubby’s praises. If he gets a promotion at work, or completes an amazing project, or accomplishes something that’s worth celebrating, let the world know how proud of him you are.

3. Get Your Flirt On

Just because you’re married doesn’t mean you’re done dating. Married couples should never stop dating each other. As often as you can, flirt with your husband! Tell him cute things to make him laugh. Gently brush his shoulder as you walk past him. And ladies, go ahead and initiate sex in the bedroom! Your take-charge attitude will definitely turn your man on and make him feel desired and loved.

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How To Love Your Husband By His Primary Love Language
InspirationalTips & Ideas

How To Love Your Husband By His Primary Love Language

by Leena Kollar
written by Leena Kollar

One of the reasons so many married couples have trouble communicating is because they aren’t doing it effectively. Simply having conversations isn’t enough. You have to communicate in a language that your spouse understands. That truly speaks to him. That’s where the five love languages come in. If you aren’t familiar with them, they are five different ways- quality time, receiving gifts, physical touch, words of affirmation and acts of service- of showing love to your partner. For most people, one or two love languages stand out among the others. There may be instances where you experience love through all of the love languages, but you’ll likely find a frontrunner that makes you feel the most loved.

You can discover what your love language is by taking the assessment here. Once you and your husband both know your primary love languages, you can easily find ways to strengthen your marriage by speaking your mate’s language more often.

1. Quality Time

If your husband’s primary way of feeling loved is by spending time together, his love language is probably quality time. Make him feel loved by scheduling one-on-one time together. Have meaningful, uninterrupted conversations. Consider taking a weekend getaway. Whatever you can do to make time for just you and your husband will make him feel loved.

2. Receiving Gifts

You don’t have to go on a shopping spree and buy your husband a bunch of gifts for no reason. But if his primary love language is receiving gifts, and you come across something you think he’d enjoy, he’ll appreciate it if you get it for him. Bring him home his favorite drink from Starbucks one night. Or get him tickets to watch his favorite team play. Find little ways to shower your hubby with gifts, and you’ll get a great gift in return- a happy husband!

3. Physical Touch

You don’t just have to make yourself available for sexy time if your husband’s love language is physical touch. Small things like holding hands or hugging will also make him happy. Whenever you have the chance to embrace your husband, go for it! Lay your hand on his knee while you’re sitting next to each other. Embrace him for a few moments before you go to bed. Love on your man physically, and you’ll probably feel good too.

4. Words Of Affirmation

Words have power. They can do great harm or have a positive impact on a person’s well-being. Keep this in mind if your husband’s strongest love language is words of affirmation. It isn’t always easy to verbalize your feelings, but if you can put them down on paper, that will make your man feel loved too. Send your husband a sweet note in his lunch. Or leave one on the bathroom mirror. Let him know with words how much you love and appreciate him as much as possible.

5. Acts Of Service

If your husband is often asking you to do things, like pick up his dry cleaning, or make him a plate of food, it might be because his main way of feeling loved is through acts of service. It doesn’t mean you should be treated like a slave and serve your husband at the expense of your own happiness. It just means that if you are able to get things done that are important to him, he will very much love you for it.

Leena Kollar

Leena Kollar

Contributing Writer at Life As Mama
I'm a wife, mother and everything else associated with domestic life. I can often be found hiding from my kids to sneak treats (especially ice cream). I love rainbows and naps, and I find any excuse to go to Target. When I actually make it out of the house in real clothes, I document my outfits on my fashion blog, Leather & Lip Gloss. My love for fashion also inspired me to start my own comprehensive style website, The Style Spectrum.
Leena Kollar
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Valentine’s Day Date Ideas That Will Make You Feel Young At Heart
HolidayTips & Ideas

Valentine’s Day Date Ideas That Will Make You Feel Young At Heart

by Leena Kollar
written by Leena Kollar

There’s so much pressure on Valentine’s Day to do something really special. But isn’t what’s most important just spending time with the one you love? Celebrating shouldn’t be stressful, it should give you something to look forward to. It should bring you back to the time when you and your better half first met. When there were butterflies in your stomach, and your love was fresh and new.

Instead of doing something traditional this year, why not spend time bringing out your youthful side? These alternative ideas will make you feel like a kid again, and this Valentine’s Day will be one you’ll remember forever!

1. See a Comedy Show

Laughing is not just fun, it’s actually good for you! That’s why we say “laughter is the best medicine.” Having a partner you can laugh with is so important. A comedy show is a great way to lighten the mood and enjoy an entertaining show with your love. Some shows even allow the audience to participate, and if you’re brave enough to do that, your partner is definitely going to have a good time!

2. Take a Cooking Class

There’s something really romantic about cooking together. It’s such an intimate activity. Whether you and your spouse join forces in the kitchen on Valentine’s Day, or take a cooking class to learn something new, spending time in the kitchen will heat up your night. The best part is that you get to enjoy the delicious result of your hard work together!

3. Have a Picnic

It’s simple, it’s romantic and it’s a wonderful way to grow closer to your spouse. All you need to do is set up a blanket in your backyard or at a local park. Pack easy foods like sandwiches, fruit and crackers, and enjoy a bottle of wine along with each other’s company. Don’t forget to put your phones away and just focus on strengthening your relationship.

4. Go Dancing

Not every husband is willing to dance in public. Or at all. But if yours is, dancing will get you two connected physically and it’s a fun form of exercise! Whether it’s line dancing, ballroom dancing or break dancing, get out on the dance floor and bust a move with your honey!

5. Go Wine Tasting

If you’re a wine drinker, Valentine’s Day is a great reason for going wine tasting. After you discover your favorite flavor(s), buy a bottle or two to bring home. Then call Uber (seriously, don’t drink and drive), turn on some Marvin Gaye and enjoy a few glasses on your couch while you fall asleep “get in the mood for love.”

 

6. Go Roller Skating

No, you’re not too old for roller skating. Never! I just saw a video of a 90-year-old woman ice skating, so there’s no excuse. It’s so much fun! If you’re going to make a fool of yourself, you might as well have your hubby there to laugh with you. You might not last very long, but you’ll definitely have a good time. And yeah, you might be sore the next day, but that’s the perfect reason to ask for a full body massage.

7. Sing Karaoke

I don’t care if you’re tone deaf. That’s not the point. Actually, maybe that’s the entire point. Either way, karaoke is bound to bring you out of your shell and impress your guy in a big way. Choose a couple of cheesy love songs to sing to each other. Even if you sound awful, it’s the gesture that’s important. And hey, you just might sound really good!

 

8. Have a Game Night

If you prefer a more mellow way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, break out your favorite board game(s). Just doing something together will allow you the chance to grow closer and remember why you fell in love in the first place. Just don’t be a sore loser. Nobody wants to spend Valentine’s Day in the dog house! It’s not about winning, it’s about encouraging one another in a competitive (but loving) way.

Leena Kollar

Leena Kollar

Contributing Writer at Life As Mama
I'm a wife, mother and everything else associated with domestic life. I can often be found hiding from my kids to sneak treats (especially ice cream). I love rainbows and naps, and I find any excuse to go to Target. When I actually make it out of the house in real clothes, I document my outfits on my fashion blog, Leather & Lip Gloss. My love for fashion also inspired me to start my own comprehensive style website, The Style Spectrum.
Leena Kollar
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