Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Project 52: Date Nights - THE FIRST DATE

I can't tell you how thrilled I was to discover Project 52: Date Nights over at Simply Modern Mom.  Right away I knew it was just what Billy and I needed to purposefully make time for each other each week.  The keys are intentionality and simplicity.  You can check out more details here, but the gist is that you dedicate a regular time each week to spend on a "date" and take turns planning a month's worth of dates.  For us, the majority of these dates will be at home - we hate asking people to watch our kids because, well, we have 500 of them and anyone who babysits Baby A. has to have a clear background check on file.  (So, that pretty much eliminates all of our friends and family... ha ha just kidding!)  Anyway, on to the date!

I wanted to keep things exceptionally simple for our first date so that the bar wouldn't be set too high.  We chose Friday nights from 9:00-10:00 or whenever Baby A. falls asleep. We drank flavored coffee and ate chocolate chip pumpkin muffins while we discussed our Goals for 2010 using these questions.  (I know, I know, we were supposed to set these goals in January, but we're always, like, a month behind around here.)  We discussed our goals for our marriage, family, finances, and health.  Having the questions kept us focused.  That is, until I fell asleep.  Oops.  (But Billy's used to that because I used to fall asleep at the movies all the time when we were dating.)

Overall it was an undeniable success.  Taking the time for simple details (candlelight, music, the "no frumpy clothes" rule) set it apart as a date and not just another Friday night of watching TV by default. I can't wait to start planning Date #2!

6 comments:

Tiffany said...

I am so glad you are joining us! That was a great date to discuss goals for 2010. You two are amazing adopting and taking on foster children. I'm glad the date nights will help you spend time away from the kids for a bit, even at home. We'll see you next week!
Tiffany {Simply Modern Mom}

Anonymous said...

Oh my word. That's four of us so far that fell asleep on date night. Must have been an epidemic!

Sounds like a good time to me! Sometimes just carving out some time to chat is the best.

Secret Mom Thoughts said...

It was an epidemic for sleeping on date night! The date sounded great though.

Carri said...

At least you didn't fall asleep before the chocolate chip pumpkin muffin! Those are my fav! I think you'll really enjoy the date nights! All the past dates we've done are on my blog if you are looking for ideas!

Mid-Craft Crisis said...

Yep, chalk me up for another sleeping date... We are planning our 5th date this week and we have enjoyed the process.

Just have to say your little family is beautiful!

The Lady of the House said...

We fall asleep in the company of one we're comfortable and secure with. Who better to feel this way with, right?