Dating is a very important part of being a couple (especially once you are married) and with kids and busy work lives, we make it a priority to date at least once a month.  It is also important to not get stuck in the dinner and a movie date night rut. Depending on your mood or situation here are five ideas for pulling off the perfect date. 

We Don’t Have A Sitter Date 

This is actually one of my favorite date nights because it is low key and easy to pull off. You don’t have to limit this date to once a month.  We have all had that night where we want to get away, but just can’t. Life is constantly pulling a fast one, and making it harder to make ourselves a priority.  For this date all you need is a backyard firepit and a bottle of wine. If you are missing either of those I suggest purchasing them immediately. Once the kids are off to bed, you sneak out to backyard. Enjoy the quiet night, under the stars and hopefully great conversation.  

Choose Your Own Adventure Date 

Just like the books, this is something you can do over and over again; and it can be different each time.  This is the date that you do when you feel like you need to get outside of your comfort zone. You want to try something new and do it with the one you love. Go to Groupon select “Things to Do” and the category “Fun & Leisure”.  This date can really be any new experience you want. You can take a cooking class, a dance lesson, go to a museum or go on a hot air balloon. This also helps with those nights when you just can’t decide what to do. You look at a list of options and make your selection. 

Dating on Borrowed Time 

This is when you don’t have the ability to go out at night.  You have to take advantage of those 3 hours that you dropped your kid off at a friends house.  Day dates are perfect for a short activity. It gives you just enough time for a short hike and a picnic lunch; or a bike ride to your favorite restaurant.  It’s always nice to share an experience between the two of you, without the chaos and mayhem that awaits you at home. 

System Reboot Date 

Can you really put a price of comfort and relaxation?  Every now and then you need to just relax, and be pampered.  This date may cost a little more depending on how you do it, but it  definitely needs to be done every once in a while. I honestly can say that we don’t reboot our systems enough. I am going to make this date next on my must-do list. This is the date where you go to a day spa, get a couples massage, or at least a pedicure.  In the end you need to feel refreshed and relaxed. Doing this with the one you love can only make you closer.

Stayin Out All Night Date  

Every couple who has children needs that night away without being woke in the middle of night; and have the opportunity to sleep past dawn. Who doesn’t want to relax in your robe, under a down comforter, and eat room service while watching cable tv in a room with black out curtains. Even if you are not that far from home; it is nice to just get away and pretend you are a childless couple. Travelocity has last minute deals and you can save up to 70% off a hotel room with last minute bookings. If you don’t have time to take a vacation away from home, this will at least give you the opportunity to get away for a night.