Tired of spending the weekends lying around, doing the same old thing? Even the greatest, most compatible relationships can use a little “resparking” once in
a while.
Doing something completely new can help bring couples together. Go for a walk, a bike ride or a hike. If it’s dark, try stargazing. It gives couples the opportunity to enjoy comfortable silence together.
“Relationships are a game of
compromise,” said Kelly Feeney, a 21-year-old student, who recently went ice-skating with her boyfriend. “He went because he knew I really wanted to, which really shows
compromise.”
Student Jeff Meakins, 22, and his girlfriend enjoy trying new sports together, such as tennis, golf and snowboarding. He is currently teaching her how to snowboard.
“She’s never done it before, but she’s learning for me,” he said.
“A couple that plays together, stays together,” author Melina Gerosa Bellows writes in her book “The Fun Book for Couples: 102 Ways to Celebrate Love.” It suggests ways for couples to enjoy their
relationships through a variety of activities, from simple gestures to
romantic evenings.
Student Jessi Morgan, 20, and her boyfriend go to Alton Baker Park to feed ducks. Morgan said the two like to have fun and don’t worry about acting serious or emotional.
“Acting like kids is what we do best,” she said.
Planning a weekend getaway is a great way to spark a relationship and provides quality alone time. The mountains and the coast are both accessible from Eugene. At the beach, try flying a kite, building a sand castle or renting a tandem bicycle. In the mountains, snowshoe, build a snowman or visit the
hot springs.

Feeney and her boyfriend go to Portland for the day just to shop.
For a new twist on a date night, try planning an evening in. Put your comfortable clothes on, order take-out and snuggle up in front of a good movie.
“We cook for each other, which makes it really fun,” Morgan said.
Skipping the restaurant scene allows couples to be at home and comfortable, and it is easier on the budget. Whipping up something creative or fancy can provide some laughs.
“Fun does not need to be extravagant,” Bellows said.
Feeney said she appreciates random acts of kindness no matter how small they are.
“Showing affection and showing that you are thinking of the person is what makes it special,” she said.
“I’m big on surprises,” said Meakins, who likes to give his girlfriend notes or flowers when she’s least expecting it. “It’s really important to have surprises and stuff out of the ordinary.”
Being spontaneous adds variety to the relationship. Step out of the comfortable routine of dinner and a movie, and leave the dull moments in the past.

Lauren Wilson is a freelance reporter for the Daily Emerald