I Dare You!

My husband and I did something we have NEVER done the other day. We took an inventory on key areas of our life, ranked them, and then discovered what our key our top priority should be right now. Granted, the topics were somewhat challenging to sift through and conclude. Of the ten categories: physical health, mental well-

being, environment, joy/restoration, romance, friends and family, finances, purpose/career, spirituality, and personal development – romance came out on top for the both of us.
 
We then took a look at why we feel this way, discussed it and decided for the next thirty days we are going to focus on this area above everything else. This doesn’t mean we are abandoning the other areas. We will continue on with our goals in those areas, it just means if any goal threatens follow through with the goal we created we believe will improve ROMANCE, we will choose romance and let the other slide.
 
Typing it out makes it seem so formal and sterile even, but we both really enjoyed the conversation and getting it out on the table, without too much emotion involved. I’ll keep the deets to myself, but MAKING TIME for one another is a big key for us. We go and do SO much for our kiddos, we weren’t surprised this was the case. We rarely have fifteen minutes alone with one another, to just talk. There is always something or someone around to talk with or see about. Even our beloved pets like to poke their heads between us when we hug. We literally feel like we have to go away to have quality one-on-one time with one another!
 
Which, we are! Our anniversary is next month, just ten days after Valentine’s and I AM STOKED. We get to do something he loves, I get to visit a dear friend, and we both just get to be with one another. Thinking about this, I felt like I wanted to do something “extra” in the days leading up to it. Sure, cooking every day and making Whole30 meals will help (I learned during the challenge my hubby loves walking in the door to the aroma of a meal being prepared). Supporting and encouraging one another to workout will also help (he loves when he gets to work out). And the hour together, will be awesome, no doubt. But, I wanted to do something he didn’t know about, something every day leading up to our anniversary and trip. I thought of the Love Dare.
 
Remember it? The book came out in 2008 and Fireproof hit the theaters the same year. While I watched the movie, I never actually completed the book. The movie was a godsend for us at the time! It came at a time when we needed it most. No surprise why it would come to mind now. So, I am going to do the dare starting today! I must say, I love how God is bringing this to mind now. With Valentine’s just over a couple weeks away, our anniversary and trip, PLUS the fact the Shepherdess Rise Up Devotions will be focusing in on improving relationships with our spouses – I KNOW God is in it, and I can’t wait to see what He has in store!
 
Today happens to be on patience, which I admit I sometimes need (who doesn’t?!). I might let ya know how it goes ;) And hey, if you're up for it, join me! Your spouse may love the little surprises leading up to Valentine's and the intentional attention that follows.