It’s February and love is in the air. With Christmas and New Year behind us, store displays are shifting from Rudolph to Cupid. Here are some ways to keep the flame going.

Thoughtful Romance
As you go about your everyday routine, take two seconds to call, text, or e-mail some sort of sentiment specific to your partner. It might not seem terribly romantic to ask if they ate lunch; however, just letting your partner know that you thought about them is a connection.

Hidden Romance
I saw a couple once in a restaurant having a lively dinner with their three restless young children. When the wife got up to take one of them to the bathroom she specifically walked past her husband and ran her hand across his back as she passed. Their eyes met and they exchanged a smile. It was a quick glance but an intimate moment all the same.

Cost Effective Romance
Thoughts, smiles, and common courtesies are very cost effective and surprisingly lacking in some relationships. Spending money is optional.

Shared Romance
If you find yourself thinking ‘it’s their job to romance me’ consider what you are really saying. We don’t want to assign romance as a chore. Share ideas on what gives you happiness in the relationship. Make a commitment to romance each other.

Undefined Romance
When you have limited time and resources you have to get creative. Some people are more creative than others. My husband and I were going grocery shopping one night. I was just about to complain that I didn’t feel like going when he said how much he enjoys having this time together. Who would have ever thought that grocery shopping can be romantic?

Ultimately romance is about love, happiness, peace and connection. Stay open-minded and listen to each other’s suggestions. If the spark has been on sabbatical it may be difficult to explore new ideas. Start with identifying what already brings the loving feelings and go from there. WH