Winter has set in.
I’m cold, tired and hungry most nights, and the thought of heading out in to the darkness for some ‘romance’ is just not doing it for me right now. Indeed, my idea of high romance at the moment, is when he thinks to switch my electric blanket on for me or runs a bubble bath. And chocolate. Chocolate that is just for me; that I don’t have to share. Chocolate always scores high.
But somehow I know we have to find time for each other. Staying on top of everything really makes the love party in our house a little dull. At the moment our conversations barely extend past thoughts about dinner, what parties the kids have on the weekends and if the clothes in the laundry basket have just been dumped there or need washing.
SETTING THE SCENE
There are a few options up my sleeve for some romance that doesn’t involve heels, makeup or a big wad of cash for the babysitter.
- TALK DIRTY : For him, this involves anything about cycling. I could talk coffee rides, city commuting, lycra kits and those drivers who overtake too close. This would really rev him up. But…No. Sorry. No.
- PRESENT HIM WITH THE TV REMOTE : I know that it’s the kids bath time or that readers need to be heard or that the PJ’s need to be whipped out of the washing machine and into the dryer. No no. It’s been a long day. Let him watch the footy all night. Ummmmm….just no!
- LET HIM HAVE ALL THE DOONA : No need to say a word when he grunts and snorts and rolls over in the night, dragging the doona with him. Your man really needs his rest. But, so do I, so no go here, either!
OR…….
Here is actually an option I like.
CHECK OUT THE Date Crate.
WHAT WAS IN OUR DATE CRATE?
We were recently gifted a box to try and it did not disappoint. The beauty of this crate of goodies, is that whilst it is geared up for Adults Only fun, only a few small adjustments means the kids can actually play with the activities at a later date. The team at Date Crate have done all the thinking and planning for you, right down to dinner suggestions and mood music.
Our night had quite a playful theme. Given we both have a little (lot) competitive streak, this was so much fun. We played a Space Race Board Game, featuring some Truth or Dare questions. Both adult and child friendly options were included, so we can play this again with the kids.
Next we challenged our communication skills, as we directed each other through an ‘Asteroid’ Obstacle Course. So much harder than you think and really forces you to listen and trust each other; good skills for daily life! Next up we lightened the mood with an Alien Battle. This was my absolute favourite, as it involved shooting a round of darts from the the blaster provided. See ya later, alien blob! The mood then mellowed with a creative activity, as we created Star Cones. LED tea lights were provided and we decorated cardboard cones to place over the top. This then illuminated our designs in the dark. Quite a nice way to slow it all down and chat quietly in the dark. Finally, we settled in with some Relationship Talk; some thought-provoking questions designed to open up the conversations about topics you might rarely visit. These will definitely be used again, as it is a green light method to air issues that you may not otherwise deal with in the everyday world. The Date Crate even allows for some overtime suggestions, including a Fantasy Bowl (ooh la la) and movie ideas.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The Date Crate is an initiative by a couple of Mums, who understand the demands of small children, family finances and the need to keep the romance alive. Let’s face it, sometimes it’s just easier not to worry about it, and the cosy couch with some Netflix looks way easier. Or we tend to avoid a night out, as the cost of babysitting on top of dinner, makes it unaffordable for most. Or if you can grab a babysitter, you tend to use this option for a night out with a group of friends; not for a one on one with your partner.
Whatever the reason, Date Crate can help. It is beautifully put together, arriving at your door with well structured directions in a brochure outlining your date. Everything is provided for you and most importantly, the thinking has been done by someone else! We even had a bag of space themed lollies provided.
HOW CAN I GET A DATE CRATE?
There are a few of options. You can sign up for an ongoing monthly subscription, which reduces the cost of each box. If it’s not your thing, it can be cancelled at any time. A surprise box (different each time) will be sent out to you arriving around the same time each month. The 3 month pre-paid plan is *$171.60; great value when you compare it to the cost of even one night out (considering the cost of the sitter, drinks, dinner, uber, etc).
You can buy a one-off box at *$65 form the gift shop; a pretty cool idea for an anniversary or a friend’s engagement.
Alternatively, you can swing over to my Facebook Page for your chance to win a box. YAAAAYYYY!!!! Thanks, Date Crate!!
So if you know in your heart that your relationship is worth the investment, BUT YOU ARE JUST SO TIRED, maybe this is something you might want to take a look at. Have a look at their work on Facebook.
Also, have a peek at my previous date night form here.
For any other information, make sure you click HERE.
Thanks so much, Date Crate Crew, for the opportunity to review you crate from last month; such a clever initiative.
*Price correct at time of writing
