When you were courting your sweetie, what did you do to be fun or romantic? Sure, we all imagine flowers and candy, maybe even a nice dinner out. Or you went dancing or to a club? Maybe the romantic evening was a concert to see their favorite entertainer. Whatever it was you probably remember as it being one of the most romantic things you've planned or experienced. Whenever and whatever it was made you…you!
Now just because you might think something you planned was the most romantic thing you've ever done; your partner might have other ideas. So, you might want to have that conversation sometime.
Sometimes It's the Small Things
I had what I thought was one of the most romantic fun and exciting thing I'd done for my charming bride over our 40 years. But…I discovered I was totally wrong! I had asked her to lunch and had brought along a bag with a stuffed leopard inside and it had an envelope pinned to it. Inside were tickets to an African photography Safari! Out of all my memories I would have thought that was "it." The most romantic moment.
But it turned out that it was some of the small things she talked about. She mentioned the occasion I had gotten a nice bonus, and instead of just handing the check to her, I went to the bank and got cash in small bills. I piled the cash on the bed in our spare room. And when she got home, I handed her a note. It was a clue to where the next note was located. After visiting a dozen spots around the house, the last clue was to check the bed. But it wasn't just the pile of money on the bed that she loved, it was the time I took giving her a treasure hunt!
Another thing was a simple cardboard Easter bunny I had made for her and had written "Good for a back rub anytime" on the back of the cardboard bunny. That was 20 years ago, and she still has it, treasured with love!
So a conversation about what romance means to your sweetie might surprise you. And those romantic experiences are parts of what make you… you! Why not ask your partner today what moment they remember as the most romantic?
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's story really hits home because I hear this from couples all the time – especially those who've been married 30, 40, or even 50 years. One question that comes up often is "how do we keep romance alive on a fixed retirement income?" The good news is that David's examples prove romance doesn't require big spending. That treasure hunt cost nothing but time and creativity, and the handmade Easter bunny coupon became a 20-year keepsake.
Here's what I love about this: when you're planning your retirement lifestyle and budget, remember that the most meaningful experiences often cost the least. Whether it's a surprise picnic in your backyard, stargazing from your porch, or recreating your first date at home, these moments become the stories you'll treasure. Think of it this way – you're not just planning financially for retirement, you're planning for all those extra hours together to create new memories.
A little creativity today can make your retirement years even more romantic than your courting days.