There's a belief that absence makes the heart grow fonder. While this may be true in some instances, presence makes a love grow stronger. When a couple first falls in love, they can't get enough of each other. The days are filled with constant text messages and the nights are filled with conversations that extend into the wee hours of the morning. Unfortunately, things become stale after a while. However, there are ways to keep the love going and enjoy your significant other. The key is quality time. Consider these four ways you can spend more time with your significant other and grow more in love.

Cooking

Nothing's lovelier than watching a couple build a life together and season it with their experiences, perspectives, desires and dreams . In the same way that it takes a lot to create a wonderful cake, the same can be applied to life. Life is better when it's shared. Food is also better when it can be shared with someone else. Whether it's once a week or every day, create a ritual where you can spend time creating a dish with your significant other. The creative process can truly be one that facilitates weekly bonding.

Check-In

It's one thing to check in through a phone call or text message. It's another thing to check-in on a face-to-face basis. Put away all the electronics, sit on the couch and connect with one another. It's a chance for you two to stay in tune with one another. It's a time where you can vent, release and reconnect. It can work well before the start of a day or at the end of the day.

Date Night

It's understandable that couples get very busy and struggle to find down time to connect with one another. Date nights are perfect because many couples are so busy and need to schedule in time to connect and have fun. Create a date night jar. Cut up pieces of paper and on each piece, write down some date night ideas. Each week, open up the jar and pull out one activity. Date nights don't have to be incredibly expensive either. A walk in the park, a sit-down dinner at the mall eatery or even a coffee date will work just fine.

Exercise

When a person exercises, the body naturally releases tons of endorphins. As the body releases these endorphins, it creates a euphoric feeling that leaves most people in a great mood. It would be great to experience these types of feelings with your significant other. Decide on an exercise that you can enjoy together. Whether it's swimming, tennis, dance or a simple jog, it's nice to do these types of workouts together.Some people are averse to this because, let’s be honest, it’s hard to look your best while you’re working out. It’s hard, but it’s not impossible. For starters you can buy some stylish workout clothes from businesses like Bad Girl Brazilian Fitness Wear and similar outlets. You may be surprised at what you can pull off when you dress right.

These four activities are excellent ways to squeeze in some quality time. If this isn't natural to you and your partner, it may feel difficult to squeeze in. Do your best to be intentional and it'll get easier as time goes on.

Author's Bio: 

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max. Kara is the youngest of four. She has two hilarious brothers and one beautiful sister. She also is the aunt of 5 crazy little girls that she loves more than anything!! Kara is not yet able to be a mom, but she loves being around kids and being like a second mom to her nieces. She dreams of the day that she can start her own little family.