Make This Summer Magical:

The year was 1972 in St. George, Utah. I had just finished second grade and was off for the summer—free from homework and structure. I remember riding my bike alone to Ben Franklin, where you could buy a root beer and a comic for under a dollar. Summer felt magical. What changed?

Many of us grow up, take on responsibilities, and let that summer magic fade. But who says it has to? Just like in my childhood, the magic won’t create itself—you have to make it. As your Relationship Fitness Coach, I invite you to rekindle that magic through five powerful events designed to rejuvenate your romantic and family life.

One night each week, unplug as a family. No phones, no screens—just connection. Eat a meal together, play a game, talk, and laugh. When done consistently, this becomes a ritual your children will grow to expect and treasure.

Date night is essential for what I call relationship self-care. Plan five uninterrupted hours with your partner each week. No electronics, no movies—just time to talk, laugh, explore, and remember why you fell in love. Prioritize it like you would church or work.

Once a week, hold a structured check-in with your partner:

• Share five positive things about the past week.

• Address any unresolved issues calmly.

• Ask, “What can I do this week to show my love for you?”

These weekly moments build emotional intimacy and mutual understanding.

Break away from daily life. Whether it’s camping, a city staycation, or a dream destination, get the whole family involved in planning and saving. These shared experiences create memories far more powerful than any gift.

Just the two of you—no kids, no friends, no work. This is your time to court one another again. Celebrate your marriage by escaping distractions and focusing solely on connection and romance. It’s your relationship’s reset button.

Good question. Here are a few budget-savvy tips we teach at our Relationship Fitness Camps:

1. Cut a Habit to Fund the Magic
   Let each family member give up one small indulgence—coffee, candy, eating out—and contribute the savings to a dedicated “relationship” account.

2. Plan in Advance
   Dream big, even if it’s a few years out. A Costa Rica trip in three years starts with saving $10 a week today.

3. Create a System
   Keep your funds separate, track progress, and get the whole family excited about the goals.

Start today. Finish this summer strong and start planning next year’s magic. You don’t have to wait for your relationship or family to be “in shape” to start investing. These rituals will help you get there.