“This pandemic has me missing our nights out together. I can’t believe how much I took it for granted before. I’d put on a little extra makeup, change out of my mom attire, and spray on perfume. You’d wear a collared shirt, boots, and rustic cologne.
We prioritized date night even if we were at odds with one another. After the evening was over, we’d love and like each other again. Crazy how that works! Maybe because it felt like old times, like our dating days before kids.
Date nights were our peace in the beautiful chaos of family life – a harbor from life’s troubles and difficulties. Our time, just you and me, together. Sometimes my favorite part was the drive to our destination, in peace and quiet.
Date nights gave us time to breathe from our busy schedules and enjoy conversation and laughter in a relaxed environment.
Date nights reminded us our marriage was a priority – before being daddy and mommy. Because what our kids need most is a daddy and mommy who love each other.
Some date nights were casual like driving to watch the sunset or walking a trail together. Sometimes it was bowling or surprising friends with ice cream. Other times, our friends would watch our kids for a weekend get-away and we never wanted that to end.
I miss the romance, break from the ordinary, and the routine too.
But until that day comes when we can go out again, let’s do take-out and support a local business. And get a cheesecake or fudge sundae for a palate cleanser. Let’s light some candles, turn on Netflix, and cuddle on the couch.
We can get creative when the kids are in bed and make the most of these nights spent at home. What really matters is being with you. Love is what matters most in this stressful and unpredictable time. We can make the most with what we’ve got.
When this pandemic is over, I’ll let you pick which restaurant we dine at first. I promise I won’t complain, be picky, or be impatient if the food takes longer.
I’ll be grateful that date night with you is back in the world again.”
This story was submitted to Love What Matters by Samantha Krieger. She is the author of Quiet Time: A 30-day Devotional Retreat for Moms in the Trenches. You can follow her journey on Facebook and Instagram. Submit your own story here, and be sure to subscribe to our free email newsletter for our best stories.
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