Bring romance to your marriage

Conversation starters
When was the last time you learned something new about your spouse's thoughts, beliefs, or experiences? If you've been in a conversational rut lately, it might be time to experiment with some ways to open up again. Here are some resources for jump-starting interesting discussions:

• The Book of Fabulous Questions: Great Conversation Starters about Love, Sex and Other Personal Stuff by Penelope Frohart is nicely sorted and organized. It's also a nice size to bring along on longer car trips or for a walk in the park.

• If..., Volume 1: (Questions for the Game of Life) by James Saywell – ranging from the serious to the ridiculous, these hypothetical questions can really give you some new appreciation or insight for your partner – and even invite your own self-exploration.

• Things Party Board Game – although you'll need to invite some friends over to play this game, it still gives a lighthearted look into your spouse's mind. The game presents players with provocative topics, such as "THINGS... you shouldn't say to your doctor", or "THINGS... that could get you arrested", and allows each player to write down whatever comes to mind. Then, after each answer is read aloud, players take turns guessing who wrote down each response.

Return to your beginnings
What was the movie you saw on your first date? Is there a restaurant that's special to you? What about that long walk together when you first said "I love you?" It might be time to arrange for a trip down memory lane. (Remember that A&W commercial where the husband arranges for the manager to bring the burgers out to the car?) It might be as simple as renting a DVD and settling down to enjoy an old film, or as elaborate as revisiting a honeymoon spot, but consider taking your spouse back to a shared moment. Sometimes that's all it takes to reignite the spark that brought you together.