DETAILS: SUEDE LACE-UP DRESS | WEDGE SANDALS (ALSO LOVE THESE) | CHANEL BAG (BLACK CROSS BODY UNDER $30 HERE) | WATCH

CODY’S OUTFIT: COLORBLOCK CHAMBRAY BUTTON DOWN | DENIM (BUY 1 GET ONE < $30) | WHITE SNEAKERS

Between the blog, working on ILY, and being a mom, my days can get pretty packed sometimes. Cody’s schedule is the same way and our down time usually involves binge watching netflix. So during an especially crazy week we try to make a habit of breaking away from whatever we have going on and making time for us. We love going out to eat, so we we like doing lunch dates so we have time to our selves. We have our tried and true favorite restaurants but we also love branching out and trying new places.  We also have a “no phone” policy during meal times so we can really enjoy our time together. It was really cool, a couple weeks ago we were at dinner at Ruth Chris and the manager came up to us and said it’s so nice to see a couple laughing and enjoying their time together so many people spend dinner on their phones. It’s funny because it’s become such a habit for us we don’t think about it anymore, but it’s such an easy way to connect with your significant other.

It’s funny how life gets so chaotic sometimes that you actually have to carve out time with your significant other.  Below are 5 other great ways to make time for each other when you both have a busy schedule:

1. Plan ahead: I know it might seem obvious, but if your schedule starts filling up make sure you coordinate your schedule so you can figure out a time that works for both of you. We always try to plan date nights ahead of time, whether its meeting for lunch, catching a movie together, or a dinner date. Planning ahead also gives you something to look forward to and a chance to dress up. I just got this flirty suede dress that is perfect for day or night.
2. Time Block: I have started time blocking my days and it makes a huge difference being effective with my time. Set the timer for things you need to get done, work, cleaning the house whatever it is and you are ten times more effective. I have seen a huge difference in my day and effectiveness.
3. Find something you love to do together: There’s nothing wrong with having your own hobbies, but finding one you can share together is a great away for you both to relax and unwind while spending time together.
4. Learn to turn it off: Whether it’s work, school, or whatever responsibilities you have, learn to turn it off every once in a while. That might mean disconnecting from the world and banning phones, or just setting a work curfew. Cody and I both decide on a time we have to power down the computers and stop working for the night. If something doesn’t get done, we just wake up early to finish it.
5. Getaway: It might mean you pay the price for taking time off the week before and after, but it is so worth it. Plus the time spent planning and leading up to the trip means even more time to spend together and is half the fun. Even if all you can swing right now is a weekend staycation, there’s no better way to guarantee time together than getting away.

What are some of your favorite ways to make time for each other?

XX, Christine

*Photos by JessaKae. In collaboration with Express.