Children are a great source of distraction when it comes to keeping a marriage happy. The parents become so wrapped up in taking care of the children they forget to make time for themselves as a couple. Before they realize it, they're marriage seems more like a job than a union. Here's a few ways any couple can keep their marriage vibrant and fun, even with children.

Just as you did before you became parents, it's important to continue offering those thoughtful -just because- surprises that made your spouse feel special. A little imagination will go a long way in creating surprises.

Send them a special card through the mail or place it next to their coffee cup in the morning. Place a single rose in the shower stall so they'll find it unexpectedly. Purchase a gift, and have it delivered to their place of employment. Leave a love note on the windshield of their car.

One of the most common complaints in a marriage with children is the lack of romance and affection shown to each other. It's completely understandable that most of your time is caught up in caring for your children, and by the time evening rolls around all you want to do is go to sleep. But, it's important to show you still care.

Snuggle up with your spouse on the couch at the end of the day. Take a moonlight stroll through the backyard after the kids are tucked into bed. Hold hands whenever you can. There are many way you can let your spouse know you still think they're the cat's meow, and it doesn't take much effort.

It's' also important to spend time away from the kids. Plan a private weekend get-a-way; no kids, no friends, no ringing phones or other interruptions. Tight budget? Have that get-a-way right in the comfort of your own home. Turn of the phone, light some candles, put on some soft music, send the kids to your mother's house and enjoy each others company.

The power of laughter is highly underrated. Laughter is one of the most effective ways to keep your relationship feeling fun and fresh. Laugh at yourself, laugh at your partner, and try to keep your sense of humor no matter how unfair the world seems to be.

Make sure you spend enough time apart. I know, it sounds ridiculous doesn't it? Spend time apart in order to keep your marriage happy? It's true, thought. When you see each other everyday, there's a tendency to take each other for granted. Spending time apart creates a longing to be together.

Just because you've become parents doesn't mean your individual interests no longer exist. Support each other in your common interests as well as those uncommon ones.

Work, kids and other obligations will only cause you to become unhappy in your marriage if you let them. With a little imagination, effort and time, you can make a difference in how happily married you are.

Learn more about this author, Cyndi Li.
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