Play’s The Thing!

Paul: Anyone who knows us, knows that we’re not going to go down in history for our sense of spontaneity and silliness. We’re serious people. But some years ago good friends of ours encouraged us to take a break from the consistent seriousness and make time for play. They said playfulness in our marriage can help us keep some perspective when the trials of daily life get us down.

Steph: This was an eye opener for us. Play? Really? I wondered how exactly were we supposed to become more playful?  What would that look like? We decided to start by being more intentional about our playfulness.  Here are some of the things we came up with.

Paul: We began playing more board games as a family. While things can get competitive, more often than not we wind up laughing and teasing about the sculpture or drawing one of us made during a round of Cranium. In fact, our kids now buy us board games as gifts so we can play them when we are together.  And we enjoy playing them when it’s just the two of us also.

Steph: Having a grandchild in the house certainly makes play a bit easier. We do so many goofy things we just wouldn’t have done before she came along – faces, silly songs, dances, getting down on the floor and playing hide and seek. It’s a virtual fiesta of ongoing fun! When we make the effort to be silly and chuckle over little things there is more laughter in the house and the atmosphere is lighter.

Paul: I’ve noticed how we’ve also brought play into the bedroom. For too long our sexual relationship was an off limits topic. As we’ve grown older and a bit more secure, we’ve incorporated playful grabs, tickles, and humor as part of our love making. This really lightens the mood and keeps us in a good place.

Steph: I marvel at how laughter can enhance our lovemaking instead of causing hurt or distraction. We’ve come to believe that having some play as part of our daily married life keeps us happier and healthier. We are most grateful to our friends who had the courage to push us in this direction many years ago!

What do you do for playful fun? Please leave us a comment below!