Yesterday I reviewed a fun new book, “How to Date Your Spouse.” Today we are joined by the author of that book, Lindsey K. Rietzsch.
Lindsey, you just released your first book. How does it feel to accomplish the goal of being a published author?
It’s been such an amazing experience and very humbling. Ever since I was a little girl I dreamed of publishing a book someday. To those who know me, this came as no surprise. I’m happy to say that I accomplished my dream and the journey has been worth it!
Your book is designed to help couples keep the spark alive through dating. Do you find that many married couples forget to court once they’re married? Why do you think that is?
Yes, too many couples quickly lose motivation and creativity. The more years we are married the more that time, school, money, work, kids and routine seem to dominate our lives. Most couples are quick to agree that dating is a great way to keep the spark alive but have been caught in a rut and are not sure how to get out.
My book lays out the blueprint so that the ideas and steps to take have already been thought out for you. For example, if not having a babysitter has been a major road block for you, the simple solutions are in my book. You’ll find that once you begin implementing courtship back into your marriage, not only will you regain that spark, but you’ll see a big difference in how your marriage was before. Dating is not just about the dates themselves, it’s a new mentality, a daily experience and a new way of life.
In the back of the book, you list several ideas for fun dates. How did you come up with those ideas?
I have always had a knack for creative ideas. I guess. I also have much event and party planning experience in my background. It’s something I enjoy doing. After determining the various date categories in my last chapter, I combined ideas from other successful couples along with my own and the inspiration just seemed to flow. There is something for everyone!
You mention that your husband is from Germany. How did you meet?
Well, the long version is so unbelievable that I actually wrote a book about it four years ago and hope to eventually publish it. There are a lot of details that occurred years before we met and months to follow that clearly point to divine intervention. We truly know that we were meant to be. I do know that if we never would have met, I probably would not have written this book.
The short version is that we officially met at my job. It was the week before our freshman year began at college and I was working at a print store in Roy, UT. Manuel had received an athletic scholarship to Weber State and was the goal keeper for the men’s soccer team. He came by my store to make copies of the fall soccer schedule. He said that when he saw me, it was love at first sight. It was a different story for me because he had a little boy with him. Though I found him attractive, I assumed he was married, a father and much older than he was. I brushed off his flirting, as I thought about his poor wife who had no idea. Manuel came back a couple days later and it was then I learned that we were the same age, he was not married and the little boy was a member of the host family he was living with as an exchange student. Suddenly I fell head over heels for him. The rest is history!
What are your favorite dates to share with your husband?
Though he is very shy, Manuel is usually a good sport. A couple of years ago we were invited to an 80’s prom night. We went to Saver’s and purchased some very hideous and hilarious prom clothes. It was so much fun. He played the role the entire night and we both stepped out of our comfort zones to be silly just for a night. For two hours we forgot that we were parents and instead we were prom dates. It was so much fun. This date is actually included in my book.
Group dates are fun but my favorite dates to spend with Manuel are usually low key and very inexpensive. From backyard golf to our themed dinners, there are so many ways we enjoy spending time together. Creativity is key! These dates are all included in my book.
I’ve been married for twelve years. Is it too late for my husband and me to start dating again?
It’s never too late! In fact, dating helps you get to know your spouse better than you thought you did. After twelve years you’re sure to have both changed since your dating days. What a perfect opportunity to re-explore each other. You’ll find that dating brings out your inner youth. Many empty nesters enjoy dating just to feel young again. Not only is dating a great way to forget your stresses for a night it’s also essential to building your relationship. Putting ourselves in new environments and new situations will give us the opportunity to see our spouse in a new light. The same old dinner and movie does not afford us that opportunity. What we model for our children can determine their future. When they see Mom and Dad enjoying each other daily, weekly etc. they understand what a healthy marriage is and how to have one.
Thank you for joining us, Lindsey. I’m looking forward to trying out your fun ideas.
If you would like to learn more about Lindsey and her book, visit her website here.
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