Here is what we try to do:

It’s amazing how a few simple, consistent habits can truly transform a marriage. My husband and I have been together for well over 15 years, and we've discovered that putting in daily effort is key to keeping the spark alive. We shared some of our core practices, like initiating intimacy even when the mood isn’t striking, and how important mutual respect is. But beyond those, there are even more ways we work hard to put our marriage first and ensure we’re always feeling connected, especially as life gets busy and kids grow older! One of the biggest game-changers for us has been dedicating quality time at home. We realized early on that phones were killing our connection. We make it a point to put our phones away at night, not just for snuggles, but to truly be present. This has evolved into intentional "date nights in." We don’t overschedule our lives or our kids' activities, so we can prioritize these weekly date nights. It could be as simple as cooking a new recipe together, having a board game marathon, or even just sitting on the couch, really talking and listening to each other without any distractions. Sometimes, we'll pick a TV series to watch together, but the rule is no scrolling – just us! To keep our intimate life passionate and truly spice things up after all these years, we've learned that novelty and communication are crucial. It’s not always about grand gestures; sometimes it’s about those little things that show you’re thinking of each other. My husband still opens my car door every single time – what a gentleman! And I try to make him his favorite meals as often as I can. We also make an effort to surprise each other. A handwritten note left on a pillow, a thoughtful "loving text" during the workday, or even just suggesting a spontaneous walk after dinner can make all the difference. We talk openly about our desires and needs, ensuring we both feel heard and valued in our intimate connection, which is essential to making sure neither of us ever feels taken for granted. Ultimately, it comes down to a daily investment of energy. We make sure to say "I love you" every day, not just as a habit, but with genuine emotion behind it. We validate each other's feelings, offer support during tough times, and never let a day go by without expressing gratitude for one another. These aren't huge, complicated tasks, but when you weave them into the fabric of your everyday life, they build an incredibly strong and resilient bond. If we can do it after 15, 20, or even 23 years, so can you! It truly helps your marriage turn around.