Let me be very clear that I am not a relationship expert by any means. I’ve only been married for (almost) 14 years and my boyfriend before I started dating my husband broke up with me by not showing up for a date and never calling me again. Oh, also, my husband broke up with me twice before we got engaged. And in full disclosure I was also still technically dating said-loser boyfriend when my husband and I went on our first date. Soooo… I guess take my relationship advice with a grain of salt. Although, the average marriage in the U.S. only lasts 8 years (whaaaattttt??). So the fact that we’ve exceeded that with now 6 kids in tow I think is pretty darn impressive. Where was I going with all this? Oh yeah, the importance of overnight dates with your sweetheart.

why we prioritize overnight dates

The weirdness of 2020 aside, typically we try and get away for an overnight date at least once a year. Rather than giving anniversary gifts we like to go away together for a night or two. Occasionally longer if we can figure out the work and childcare situation. We love our kids and love traveling with them, but there’s something special when it’s just us. It’s called lack of responsibilities.

you can connect just the two of you

Sometimes when you’re a parent you get so focused on the daily care of the household and kids you forget who you are as a couple. Someday your kids will be grown and you’ll need to learn how to just be the two of you again. Obviously I’m a big fan of family vacations but focusing on your relationship without kids is important too.

| Read 12 ideas for connecting with your spouse daily here. |

you can rest up and recharge

I never sleep so well as when Mike and I are on a getaway alone. No need to stay up late and get things done–we’re on vacation. We can sleep in all we want–no cute little voice coming from the other side of our bedroom door asking to snuggle. It gives us a chance to catch up on much-needed sleep and have a little mental break from parenthood as well.

our favorite getaways

a romantic stay at Rush Creek Lodge

Not only is Rush Creek Lodge near one of our favorite National Parks, but it’s the perfect getaway location for a couple. There are no televisions in the guest rooms and provided games encourage quality time being spent together. Delicious meals can be enjoyed together in your room or the intimate restaurant on-site.

When you’re ready to relax you can enjoy Rush Creek Lodge’s saltwater heated pool and two hot tubs. You can also check out the brand new Spa facilities. You can even reserve a private experience to enjoy Warm Waterfall Coves, an Aromatherapy Steam Room, a Himalayan Salt Sauna, and more. Find out more about the Spa Grand Opening Special.

| Read more about Rush Creek Lodge here! |

summer or winter in Lake Tahoe

There’s never a bad time of year to visit Lake Tahoe in northern California or western Nevada. You can be as active or relaxed as you’d like. In summer you can hike or cool off in the crystal blue waters. In winter you can cuddle in front of the fire or hit the slopes if you want to get out.

We’ve stayed at a few different places both together and as a family. We love Olympic Village Inn on the northwest side! When picking a pace to stay with your sweetheart check your options on both sides of the border. Nevada and California will often have drastically different prices for their hotels. And right now during COVID-19 restrictions they have different guidelines in place as well.

| Read about things to do in the summer here! |

caribbean cruising as a couple

One thing that I can’t wait to do again as a couple is go on a cruise! Nothing says care-free quite like an all-inclusive trip full of good food, fun shows, and beautiful scenery. When thinking about overnight dates the ability to have everything planned for us is the reason we keep returning for cruising. Typically I research and plan like crazy before a trip. So if I can book something and have all the little details taken care of then it’s a big win.

Personally, I’m a fan of Caribbean cruises. But, you should research your cruise line and destination options so you can pick the right cruise for you! Do you want a warm, tropical vacation? Or do you want to cuddle and watch incredible glaciers outside your balcony?

| Read some tips for cruising here! |

Do you and your significant other try to make overnight dates a priority? What has been your favorite one? What do you think has stood in your way if it hasn’t happened?