We live in a crazy, busy world - a world in which we're tempted to put everything on a "to-do" list and plow through the items one by one. But that's exactly the approach you shouldn't use in your marriage - lest your spouse simply become a co-worker and your relationship more of a business arrangement than one of the heart. So how do you keep love alive and flourishing when the house is a wreck, the kids need help with their homework, and your boss wants you to work overtime every day? With kindness, patience, and small gestures strewn throughout the landscape of your life together. Stop waiting for life to slow down, for the perfect moment, or for vacation to come around. Exercise some of the following ideas to keep your love blooming now, not later.
Shelve the multi-tasking mentality.
Multi-tasking is a great skill to have, especially for women. But that same skill can put your relationship in hot water. So instead of flipping through the mail, listening to your answering machine, and trying to listen to your spouse at the same time - give your spouse your undivided attention - even if it's only 5 minutes. Fully listening to what your partner has to say will make him feel more satisfied with 5 minutes of undivided attention than a half hour of being part of your multi-tasking.
Compliments never go out of style.
How often do you find yourself nagging your spouse about all of the things that aren't quite up to par? And how often do you really feel good about yourself after one of those episodes? Focus instead on the things that are right about your partner, the characteristics both great and small that you love. Compliments make your partner feel good about himself - and feel good about you.
Small but steady wins the day.
Small and steady displays of affection are often more realistic than grand gestures. You may not have time every day for epic lovemaking, but you can always find a few moments for a hug, a kiss, holding hands, any kind of physical contact. Physical affection is important!
Make your relationship a top priority.
Block out 15-20 minutes every day that's just for the two of you. Establish a routine of "couple time" and your kids will learn to respect it - and generally feel more secure as they see you connecting on a daily basis. During your time together, interact as interesting individuals - and leave the daily concerns for another time.
Keep dating.
Plan a night out as often as possible (but no less than once a month). If you can't get out, then plan a late dinner for the two of you after the kids are in bed. Romance depends on your attitude, not location - so there's no excuse for giving it up.
Nurture each other.
Gestures can be short and sweet and strengthen your relationship. Here are ten ideas:
- Make coffee before your spouse gets up.
- Mail a loving card or note to your spouse's office.
- Look up to say "hello" when your partner gets home.
- Leave a loving phone message during the day.
- Send positive e-mails of encouragement, love, a funny thought, or a quotation.
- Do an errand that your spouse hates to do.
- Leave a love note in a pocket, car, or any unexpected location.
- Remember days or events that are important to your spouse.
- Say "I Love You" on a regular basis.
- Make your partner laugh - in the way that only you can.
Life is short. Don't wait for the day that may never come to show how much you care. 
