Although it may seem like you are with your spouse much more than you used to be due to quarantine, the importance of setting aside specific times during the week to be present with your spouse, to have fun together, and to learn more about one another is more crucial than ever.

But, of course, there are some roadblocks that might get in the way of the date nights that you’re used to.

Here are 10 ideas that will hopefully inspire you to connect with your spouse on a deeper level and enjoy their company more during these challenging times.

1. Go on a Hike
Fall is arguably the best time to enjoy God’s Creation on a hike due to the cooler weather and scenic landscapes of changing leaves. Depending on whether you want a pleasant stroll or strenuous exercise and where you live, you can choose from a variety of trails or mountain hikes. I’ve found All Trails a helpful resource for getting information on hiking trails before setting out on an adventure.

2. Bring a Picnic to a Park
My and my husband’s fifth wedding anniversary fell on a weekend about three months into quarantine. Instead of enjoying a fancy dinner out like we normally would, we ordered takeout (and supported a local business in the process) and enjoyed a picnic lunch at a nearby park.

It’s a bit old-fashioned, it’s a bit cliche, but it can be so wholesome and a great time of enjoying something calm together.

3. Take Turns Picking a Movie for Movie Night
Sometimes my husband and I agree on what we want to watch and sometimes we don’t, but we’ve found that branching out from what we would normally choose when it comes to our movie or show preferences has its rewards which is why it can be fun to take turns choosing the entertainment for the night. This is a great opportunity to learn to love what your partner loves!