Showers of . . . Fun

By Cindee Johnson
Encompass Relationship Facilitator

Life gets busy. Jobs, kids, errands, church, cooking, laundry, cleaning, family, holidays,, friends…what would you add to the list? My husband Dave and I would add fun. Yes, FUN! With intentionality.

When we married nearly 33 years ago we committed to a Friday date night. That has looked very different over the years. Early in our marriage, it occasionally meant taking the kids along. As they became teens, it sometimes meant serving side by side at high school football games in the band parent concession stand. When finances were tight, it was a movie or game night at home. Even in the most difficult times, we would find some small way to have fun. Intentionally. Together. Now, as empty nesters, we remain devoted to date night.

But does all the fun in marriage have to be reserved for one evening each week? Scripture says Proverbs 17:22 says, “A joyful heart is good medicine.” Which is why it’s important to create fun in the ordinary moments, too. Because life doesn’t just get busy, it gets intense.

Studies show playing together increases bonding, communication, conflict resolution and relationship satisfaction. Having fun together has proven to help couples unite when working to overcome differences and gives hope when working through difficult challenges. Some studies have even found that having fun together is the most important factor in the sense of friendship, commitment, and the greatest influence on overall marital satisfaction.
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Allow spontaneous joy to brighten the day. Inject a little humor into mundane routines. Intentionally bring a smile to the face of your spouse every single day. Shower each other with joyous fun.