How to Keep Your Relationship Alive (and Healthy!)

Now this isn't rocket science but it appears it isn't obvious to a lot of people - dare I say 'most' people. Its all about making an effort, communication, being positive...see told you it wasn't rocket science.
To make it easier Ill do a list for you.
1. Talk to each other, he open and honest about how your feeling, good and bad, just be tactful !!
2. Make an effort, this means with yourself, as well as with your partner. Don't fall into the trap of not taking the time with how you look because he/she loves you, just the way you are - always make an effort, this could be going to the gym or going for a walk (together, with the kids, whatever works)
3. Tell each other much you love each other, regularly, what you appreciate about each other.
4. Have 'date nights' where you get dressed up, separately if possible and then just before you go out you reveal yourselves to each other - its fun and will remind you both why you fell in love.
5. Ensure your children get used to spending time in another room on their own regularly, so you and your partner can spend time every day just talking, the two of you.
Nothing worse than you not being able to talk because one of the children wants 'mummy'...not easy I know - but with persistence it can be done - haven't you watched Super Nanny!! Yes if you have a young baby then thats not always possible but there will be a time when the baby is in bed (preferably not in your room) when Mum and Dad can have some time together, appreciate everyone is tired with a young baby around but still make the effort to connect, it only takes a minute to show appreciation. Mums often develop low self esteem after children - think their bodies aren't attractive anymore - its up to the dads to remind them that they still are. Dads don't get away scot free either ! Its up to you to keep yourselves looking good as well. It takes two to make a relationship work - I know its not easy, but it can be done and as I said its not rocket science, just takes effort on both sides. Good Luck !

Helen Lingard