Isn’t it kind of strange that many couples who’ve
been married for a while rarely plan romantic
birthday celebrations anymore?
I don’t know. Maybe birthdays are a bigger deal
to me than to other people. But I think they should
be filled with special memories and experiences.
If birthdays aren’t a big deal to you, catch up with
me in next week’s tip. But if they are, keep reading.
Use Time
For a special birthday experience, clear your
schedules.
If your spouse has work obligations, pick another day.
You want enough time to make it meaningful and special.
The last thing you want is to RUSH through everything.
Play Detective
What’s your spouse’s favorite restaurant, food, sport,
movie or activity?
Listen for clues during conversations. Your spouse might
mention that a new restaurant had excellent reviews in
the paper, etc.
Or speak to their friends, co-workers and family because
they may know something you don’t.
Double the Fun
If you
have kids you may wish to plan TWO birthday
surprises: 1) One with your family, 2) One with just you
and your partner.
Just something to think
about...
Home-cooked Goodness
Sometimes restaurant food is great but there are times
when the food at home is so much better.
Why not cook your spouse’s favorite meal (or have
someone do it for you)?
Bake a cake - or whatever they like for dessert. Some
people like pies or cupcakes better than cake.
Get some candles. Make it a party. Have run.
But first, a rule: No smart devices, telephone or TV.
This is about celebrating your partner. Honor them
by
being FULLY present. The world can wait and will still
be there after the candles have been blown out.
If you don’t like cleaning up afterwards, splurge
and hire
a cleaning service, or use paper plates to make it easy.
Surprise Picnic
Speaking of paper plates, if your partner enjoys the
outdoors, plan a birthday
picnic.
Spending time outside in the sun and fresh air makes
people feel happy!
Take an Adventure
Maybe your spouse likes amusement parks, the beach,
scuba diving, riding bikes.
Whatever it is, consider mixing it up by making their
birthday an adventure they’ll never forget.
The Ultimate Gift
About the gift...your spouse will probably say, “Don’t
spend too much;" or, “I really don’t want/need anything;
OR, and this is tricky, they’ll have you
buy something for
the household and say, “Just make that my birthday.”
Do whatever your heart tells you
to do but maybe you
should consider getting them something special anyway.
However, one of the best gifts you can give your partner on
their birthday is yourself and your time.
Everyone loves attention, especially on their birthday.
Clear your schedules to spend the day together.
Make your partner feel loved and appreciated.
Let them know how grateful YOU ARE for the gift of
THEIR life, and that they decided to share it with you.
Until next time this is Mike Tucker & the Mad About
Marriage Family and we want YOU to be
mad about
marriage!
