rockergirrl responded August 1, 2008 at 11:16AM

  www.findbarefootbooks.com

We have been really bad about this. Maybe a couple of times a year. Not good at all. I don't yet trust the teenage babysitter concept yet so that makes it an issue.

  Sullysmama responded August 1, 2008 at 11:21AM

  Will the next one be ginger too??

We started to notice our relationship was getting rocky when our son was about 18 months old. We decided it was time to take care of "us" first for awhile. If we aren't good, then the kiddo suffers too right? So we made room in the budget for a date night every month. We're lucky enough to be part of a babysitting co-op with a bunch of friends where we swap kids one night each month. It's great because Sully can have a friend come over and play for the evening, and parents get to go out on a date. It's free and it's reliable (I mean you're dropping your kid off with other parents right?). Sometimes parents will get together and watch 2 or 3 kids at someone's house so they end up having a bbq fun night while the other ones go on double dates. It's really a great system.

  Sticky_Mommy responded August 1, 2008 at 11:37AM

  I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

I hear you Sullysmama. You have to make time for your relationship (I know, easier said then done). I think of it as if you're going down in a plane crash you have to put your oxygen mask on first, then help others. Help your relationship first and you'll be happier in other areas of your life.

My DH and need to do more things together. Even walks or hanging in the backyard after the kiddos are asleep.

  vtmomof2 responded August 1, 2008 at 1:41PM

  Life is crazy but wonderful.

Does doing things together at home count? My hubby and I rarely get out alone together, but we make time for each other every night. We always spend at least one hour together, whether it is watching a tv show or making dessert together, we spend time together each night. We really don't have much money for going out, but I think spending time together doesn't necessarily require going out. Plus we email each other through out the day, if he is busy at work I make sure to send him notes from home so he can read what is going on at home during his breaks. This is also great for when he gets home, he is able to talk to the kids about what happened during the day. I agree the relationship between us is very important for our kids, it gives them the stability that they need.