It’s been a long four months.  It goes without saying that the world has changed, and most likely, so has your household.  Relationships changed. Some of us were out of work. In some households, both income earners were furloughed.  The quarantine orders meant we were all spending more time with our significant others, for better or worse.

For some couples, spending extended time together is a blessing.  They finally have the time to truly realize what they mean to one another, and make deeper connections.  And for others…well, let’s just say that the quirks you used to find so endearing might not seem that way after months in each other’s presence 24 hours a day!

Since life is not exactly back to normal, I wanted to share some ideas for sharing time with your honey even when you have to stay at home.

Listen to a book or podcast together

An easy way to do this is to use your Alexa or Google device so you can listen to the same content at the same time.  Instead of another movie night, use a book or podcast to spark discussion.  Somehow finishing a book gives you more of a sense of accomplishment than binge watching a show.

Try a long, drawn out recipe

You know the ones you have saved on Pinterest because they look so yummy but you need a thousand ingredients and it might take 4 hours to make? Yes, those are the ones we want here.  You get to eat the results, even if they are sooooo not Pinterest worthy.

Talk to an outsider

If, as I said above, you don’t find your partner particularly endearing right now, why not talk to someone about it? Relationship counseling is now more accessible than ever and you don’t even have to leave your couch to talk to someone as a couple.

Take on a project

Paint a room, build a shelf, plant a flowerbed. Collaborating together on something, be it home improvement, art, gardening, or more, will make you feel closer as you make something you can be proud of!

Always remember that no matter how long you have been together, it’s important to date your partner and make them feel appreciated.  With a little work, you should be able to come through this difficult time even stronger together.