The new car and the new marriage hold its charm for the first year. Well, that’s a joke but marriage after a few years leaves no space for romance. We all want that freshness in our marriage like the first honeymoon but not many sustain it after starting years. For couples a few years into their marriage, honeymoon is usually only a distant memory. A honeymoon gives the newly-weds the time and space they need to get to know each other, to come closer and adjust to their new roles of husband and wife. But after the honeymoon whose magic may stay for months and sometimes more, but then you get busy with daily chores, other responsibilities and may be kids and alas the magic of honeymoon is gone. The only way recreate the magic of honeymoon is to have another one.
Marriage is about ups and down. No marriage in this world is about ups. Work, children, family, time and egos often come in between the most made-for-each-other couples. A few days together will help open up stagnant lines of communication, create space to discuss issues - and to revive the romance. Even if you have no pressing issues to be resolved, a second honeymoon can bring you closer to your partner and give you that couple time you have been craving for so long.
Even in your house you may have space but these days with so many busy schedules and deadlines, we get so tired that the moment we hit the bed, and we are out like a light. Go out of town, just the two of you. Once out of the house you will realize that there is so much you have not shared and expressed. For a middle class couple living in a nuclear family and coping with demanding careers and the responsibility of parenting, taking off on their own is often a pipe dream.
If you cannot leave the kids with anyone, take them along. To make things easier, try to find hotels with babysitting facilities and activities that will keep the little ones busy. If you have a domestic help, take him/her along to care for the kids while you two spend quality honeymoon time together. Or, if you know another couple with kids, plan a joint second honeymoon. This way, each couple can take turns in taking care of the kids.
Make sure you plan your second honeymoon just like the first some. Get involved, make lists, and do research. Choose a special location. Indulge; Relax, indulge and pamper yourselves. Discuss, but avoid fighting. You may want to resolve some issues, but fighting and arguing is strictly not allowed. While a few phone calls home are allowed, especially if you have left the kids back home, do not carry office stress and other worries to your honeymoon. Once back home, you will be more attuned, expressive and loving towards each other - good for you, good for the kids.