It's easy to lose track of what is really important during the holiday season. Between the stress of gift-buying, visiting relatives, budget concerns and riled-up kids on winter break, the holidays can feel less like a vacation and more like a punishment. The stores are packed with frustrated, anxious adults, all of them searching for that one perfect gift or that one vital ingredient for Grandma’s special pecan pie recipe.
After enduring grumpy crowds, never-ending lines and bumper-to-bumper traffic, the last thing on our minds is our spouses. Formerly happy couples turn into fighting, snarling strangers during the holiday season. But think about: Should we really be putting our office Secret Santa gift ahead of our partners’ needs? Is decorating every inch of the house in twinkling lights really more important than spending time with our partner after a long day?
Of course not! Let’s re-prioritize this holiday season. Here are some quick and easy ways to remain connected to our partners this holiday season:
The perfect gift
Nothing tells your partner you are thinking of them like the perfect present. This doesn’t necessarily mean spending a lot of money. Indeed, expensive gifts (such as jewelry or designer items) are often the most generic and require the least amount of thought. Save yourself some unwanted stress by agreeing not to go above a certain monetary limit on gifts for each other. This way, instead of buying junk at the mall that neither of you need, you will both have to put some thought into each other’s interests and hobbies.
A stocking filled with romance
Start the holiday celebrations on a romantic note by stuffing a stocking with romantic goodies for your partner. Take the time to write a handwritten love note (bonus points if you use beautiful stationery!) and write about when you and your partner first met or list your favorite qualities in him or her. Open it on Christmas Eve once the kids are in bed, and you will inevitably reminisce and kiss the night away!
Couples gifts
Sometimes the best gifts are the ones which you can enjoy together. A great idea for a couples gift is a romantic weekend trip booked after the holidays, when you will both need to de-stress and relax. Plus, having the excitement of a trip to look forward will save you from feeling the blues when all the holiday excitement ends. Another good idea might be a couples massage at a spa, or a chef or maid service for your home. Anything that helps you relax and enjoy time together is perfect!
Personalized coupons
We all know about the usual romantic coupons couples give each other, such as coupons for “One Free Massage” or “One Romantic Date.” These are good ideas, but you could also take it up a notch by giving your partner a coupon for what he really wants — think coupons like, “One Free Night with the Boys,” “One Free Week of No Chores,” “One Free Night of Being a Remote Hog,” or, “One Free Night of No Cuddling After the Deed.” Have fun with it… and don’t be afraid to get a little risqué!
A date in winter wonderland
Make time for your partner during the melee of holiday obligations. Save one night where you and your partner can share a special winter date night, such as going ice-skating, looking at Christmas lights, or sharing a mug of hot cocoa by a crackling fire.
End this year on a romantic note by giving the most important relationship in your life a little TLC. ‘Tis the season!