by Laura Reynolds

Created on: September 26, 2008   Last Updated: October 23, 2009

Your dress is packed away, and you are getting used to saying "my husband" to strangers. The tan you worked so hard for is starting to fade from your honeymoon on the beach. You've unpacked all your wedding gifts and written the necessary thank you cards. Your husband and you have christened' every room in your new house, have chased each other, and fixed elaborate meals for each other "just because" you love each other. How can you keep this up? When you finally ask yourself that question, it's time to focus on real life. Daunting, isn't it?

There are couples out there that still chase each other, believe it or not. Here are few tips to keep the spark alive and well for years to come.

Have a Date Night. I know this sounds silly, but it will help you reconnect with your spouse. Make it a point to make reservations and get dressed up for dinner. Go to the movies together and pick something you both can live with and share a tub of popcorn. Play miniature golf together, go bowling, go to a concert do something that it just for the two of you.

Get Creative in the Bedroom. Now that you are married, sex is no longer taboo (at least in your mother's eyes). Don't worry about what he or she might think of you. You are legally bound together! Role play with each other, watch movies, try new toys do something out of the ordinary to surprise your loved one. And if he or she doesn't like it, don't do it again. This needs to be a couple-decision, and make sure you don't force anything on your loved one that he or she isn't comfortable with.

Listen to Each Other. Sometimes we tend to tune each other out during what we believe is a boring conversation about our spouse's work situations and problems. Make a point to really try to not only listen, but make comments, offer suggestions, and most of all, be supportive. We all want to feel important and supported in whatever endeavors we try. It should start with our own spouse.

Flirt. This is one of the biggest hints to a successful, happy marriage after the honeymoon. It not only makes the flirter feel good, but it makes the flirtee feel great, too! Bat your eyes when you want something, give that smirky smile that only he or she knows, pinch his or her behind "just because."

Be Spontaneous and Have Fun! Sounds ridiculous, doesn't it? Flash your chest to your husband every once in a while. Whisper something naughty in his or her ear when it's inappropriate. Cook dinner in an apron only. Anything is possible! It doesn't have to be on a weekly basis, but keep it fun.

No marriage is the same as it was during the honeymoon stage forever. However, it can get better than the honeymoon stage! The more time you spend together, the more to are comfortable with each other, and the more willing you are to keep it interesting. Learn from each other, confide in each other and trust one another. Life is too short!

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