Making Time For Your Marriage During Summer Vacation

Summer vacation brings carefree days, poolside lounging, and memories in the making. But between sunscreen battles and endless popsicle requests, it’s easy to let our marriages fall by the wayside.

Here are some practical tips to keep the spark alive and make this summer vacation a time to cherish as a couple:

Embrace the Longer Days for Lasting Connections

Summer practically begs us to slow down and reconnect. Longer daylight hours provide a golden opportunity to do just that. 

Here are some ideas to turn those extra sunbeams into sparks for your relationship:

• Starlit Cinema: Ditch the movie theater and create a romantic outdoor movie night. Pack a cozy blanket, some delicious snacks, and snuggle up under the stars. 
• Night Owl Adventures: Don’t let bedtime for the kids be the end of your day. Take advantage of later sunsets to enjoy more evening activities like concerts and festivals.
• Sunset Serenades: Summer sunsets hold a special magic. Capture the moment with a spontaneous picnic dinner. Use this time to share stories or connect quietly with nature.
• Coffee Clutch Reimagined: Swap your usual morning routine for a vibrant afternoon pick-me-up. Head to a bustling farmers market, grab a cup of coffee together, and people-watch. 

Remember, it’s all about breaking away from the routine and creating new experiences together. Embrace the longer days and let the sunshine ignite the spark in your love story!

New Adventures, Shared Memories

Summer is the perfect time to step outside your comfort zone and explore new things together. 

Is there  a concert you’ve both been wanting to see? A local festival or a kayaking adventure you’ve been talking about? 

Let your partner know you’d like to do something new or outside your comfort zone. Ask them if they have ideas of new things they’d like to try.

Trying something new together can  spark new conversations and help you learn new things about yourself and your partner. Let’s face it, during the school year, it can feel overwhelming to take time to keep growing and learning about your partner. And, even when new things come up, having time to process them together can be limited.

If you’re feeling like you need a bit of a reboot in your partnership, summer provides the perfect opportunity to find a bit of new you…and a bit of newness in your marriage.  

Reflection and Recharge for a Stronger Bond

Just like the new school year brings a fresh start, summer can be a time for self-reflection as a couple. Once the kids are out of their usual routines, take some time to chat about your relationship. 

What’s been working well? Are there areas you’d like to improve on? Do you have any goals you want to set together for the upcoming year? 

This is a great activity for a date night, the quiet moments of a family vacation, or a long car ride after dropping the kids off at camp. The key is to be intentional – let each other know you’re setting aside this time and commit to actively listening, validating your partner’s reflections, and coming up with insights and ideas as a team. 

Honest communication and shared dreams can strengthen your bond and set the stage for a happy, fulfilling school year ahead.

Don’t Forget the Fun (Just for You Two!)

Family vacations are amazing, but remember, you’re a team too! 

Many resorts and destinations offer “parents’ night out” options or childcare services. Take advantage of these and carve out some quality time for just the two of you. Enjoy a romantic dinner, a couples massage, or simply relax by the pool with a good book and a shared drink. 

Even if you’re staying close to home, or spending time catching up with extended family – taking time for just the two of you is important. A neighborhood teen or a cousin can be a great, trustworthy babysitter. And fun can be a morning of pickleball at your local gym, or a two-person brunch on a rainy Sunday.

Remember, a happy couple makes a happy family!

With a little creativity and planning, you can use this summer vacation to create lasting memories with your family and strengthen your bond as a couple. 

So go forth, soak up the sunshine, and make this summer one for the books!