Ten Little Things You Can Do Today to Show Your Love in a Big Way

A dozen roses, moonlit walks in the Caribbean, an exquisite dinner in a fancy restaurant: All of these spell romance in a rather grandiose way. But what do you do when your budget and lifestyle allow for things more like wilted daisies, daytime trips to Walmart for diapers, and two burgers at McDonalds? Is it time to throw in the romantic towel?

Don't despair. Despite your budget constraints, long work hours, or children clamoring for your attention, you can still keep the spark of romance alive in your relationship. Best of all, you can infuse a steady dose of it for free!

Here are ten everyday little things you can do which will have a big impact:

1. Once a week, leave a love note for your partner to find. Stuff it in their lunchbox, place it on their pillow, or tape it to the bathroom mirror. Keep it short or write a lengthy sonnet, whatever your style, the words will keep the love-light burning fifty-two times a year!

2. Hold hands as often as possible. Sometimes couples get so busy, they forget that
the simple power of a touch goes a long way.

3. Call the radio station your partner listens to and request a song dedication for them, just because.

4. Does your partner have a cell phone or pager? Make a point to leave sexy or sweet (your call!) messages for them regularly. Or if the Internet is your preferred method of contact, send an email, with a very simple message such as, "I Love You."

5. Seize the moment! Is there snow on the ground? Invite your partner to join you outside to make snow angels, sledding, or a playful snowball fight. It may be cold outside, but your playfulness will heat up things quickly. Take walks through the neighborhood on a breezy night, go play on the swings in a nearby playground, or make a stop on your next trip to see a landmark or visit some place new. Grab your partner and indulge in the daily opportunities to have fun.

6. Turn out the lights, light a candle, and snuggle next to your partner while he's watching his favorite television show.

7. Make a point to compliment your significant other and to say "thank you." Showing respect and admiration for the one we love let's them know instantly how much we love them.

8. Get a babysitter so you can spend a quiet evening at home. Rather than paying for the service, agree to swap babysitting with a friend so they might do the same.

9. Kiss your partner. Kiss them often, linger your kisses, and embrace all opportunities for lip-lock.

10. Find ways to give your heart to your partner. Shape hamburgers in a heart shape when grilling, or make heart shaped cookies. Carve their soap into a heart shape or even trim your paper napkins into hearts. Use your imagination to find all the ways you fill your lover's world with hearts. The possibilities are endless!

Looking for more ideas?

Search the web. You'll find a wealth of articles filled with creative ideas to keep your love life alive without breaking the bank. Use search phrases such as "keep love alive" or "ways to romance."

Visit your local library or bookstore and see if they have books available for you to skim through for suggestions. Try these titles if you can find them:

1001 Ways to be Romantic by Gregory Godek

101 Ways to Romance by Barbara de Angelis

Simply Romantic Ideas by Dennis Rainey

If you're not too shy, ask your friends! Find out their favorite tips for showering their mate with daily doses of love.

Whatever options you choose, always remember, it's the little things that often mean the most!