Sometimes, you’re so busy doing everyday things – working, raising children, getting those children to all their various activities, maintaining a household, and a million other little things that take up all your free time – you forget about simple pleasures.  Pleasures like adding some romance to your relationship with the person you’ve teamed up with for the long haul.

As many of you know, Raymond and I have been married more than 25 years.  We’re not old! (At least we don’t feel that way yet.)  We’re mature – and with that maturity has come an appreciation for our relationship and how we’ve managed to stay incredibly happy – really, truly, enduringly happy as a couple all this time.  We remember to enjoy each other’s company and there’s no place better for this (to us) than when we’re on a Disney vacation.

In honor of Valentine’s Day, I give you my top five ways to add…

Romance at Walt Disney World

Hold Hands – I know there are different cultural norms in different parts of the world and even in different parts of the country, but holding hands is not only romantic, it allows you to literally connect with the one you love.  No, you don’t have to tour Epcot’s World Showcase hand-in-hand if that makes you uncomfortable, but walking to the bus after a long, happy day in the parks or strolling around, leisurely exploring your resort is a good time to feel like kids again…together.

Take in a Sunset (or a sunrise) – I don’t know if it’s Florida or just being at Walt Disney World, but we’ve notice that there are some spectacularly romantic sunsets (and sunrises) to be enjoyed!  If your resort accommodations have a balcony, step out for a quiet moment to enjoy a cup of coffee together in the early morning or after a busy day, a late-night snack or nightcap.  Plan for these special moments and make them count!

Enjoy Some Time for Two – Use a Disney babysitting service or kids’ club, but go out ALONE!  Spring for a nice dinner or, if that’s not in the budget, a cocktail and snacks.  Even if you just want some alone time to watch a movie or stroll along Disney’s Boardwalk – remember where this whole adventure began…when you were just two.

Splurge on Luxury! – Whether it’s a couples massage at the Senses Spa (Grand Floridian), dinner at the California Grill (Contemporary Resort), or a Wishes Fireworks Cruise – Nothing says romance like a special occasion planned just for the two of you!  Yes, it’s expensive, but your relationship is worth it!  And the memories are priceless.

Be Goofy!  I’ll bet that one of the things you fell in love with in your favorite person was their sense of humor.  They make you laugh out loud – and vice-versa.  Life isn’t always a piece of cake, but finding joy in the midst of mortgage payments, medical bills, and college tuition is what keeps you going!  I don’t care how rusty you might be at this – find your inner goof and be a kid again.  Happiness is contagious and absolutely free of charge.

What’s your favorite way to add a little romance to your Disney vacation?