Romantic Things To Do When Living Together

Relationships are a little like glaciers; under various pressures, they're always moving and changing, gathering all sorts of debris. But after some time, they move so slowly, it's easy to forget they're there, particularly when you live together. To use a more familiar metaphor, one day your relationship is a wild ride, all loops and corkscrews, and then, out of nowhere, it's mellowed and straightened out. Actually, it's worse than that. It's stagnating.

Hey, it happens. No sweat. Relationships require management, like anything else in your life that's as big and complex. One way is to inject a little romance. Now, depending on your definition, you may have to redefine romance a little. It shouldn't always have a direct purpose; in other words, imagine romance as neither a means nor an end. Try to imagine it as something you do for her simply because you love her, and not necessarily to get sex later. Sounds corny, but it's true nonetheless.

With all that in mind, the home you share with your lady presents a bunch of romantic opportunities to reignite that stagnating relationship. The following, centered around the element of surprise, are suggestions to get you started. In devising your own, plan what you do around your girl's unique tastes; you know her best, so you know, for example, that she loves chocolate but is currently dieting, or that she hates roses. Use your inside information.

Hand her a hot towel
While she's in the shower or taking a bath, throw her towel in the dryer for a few minutes. When she gets out, present her with the toasty towel. It's sweet and thoughtful; she'll love you for it.

Give her a massage
She comes home from a horrendous day at work; she's exhausted and even a little bad-tempered. So what do you do? Offer to give her a massage. Using aromatherapy oils, focus on her neck and back, the areas that tend to tense up under stress and cause aches and pains. You can create a mood by dimming the lights and lighting candles; it creates a more relaxing and romantic environment.

Bring her breakfast in bed
A classic gesture, breakfast in bed is the proverbial "oldie but goodie." Get up early on a Saturday or Sunday morning and prepare breakfast just the way she likes it, with toast, fresh fruit, cinnamon buns, whatever. Then surprise her by serving it to her in bed. Another great way for her to start the day.