Let’s face it, It is harder than ever to find time for yourself and your significant other. Kids, jobs and lack of funds are just a few of the obstacles we face in our journey to relax and reconnect.
If kids are an issue, make a date night for when they can spend the night at a friends or at grandma’s house. If you don’t have a babysitter , make your date for after their bedtime. Let’s assume at first that the kids are safely tucked away somewhere other than with you. Don’t try to make a gourmet meal. Keep it simple. The old saying that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach still holds true. He doesn’t want something he can’t pronounce. Meatloaf , mashed potatoes and green beans are just perfect and let’s face it, cheap! You can make this meal for around 7.00 ( or less with coupons and sales). I will include some simple recipes at the end of this post.
After dinner, forget about the dishes, they will be there tomorrow. You can have a romantic DVD picked out or if you have on demand on your cable, choose one ahead of time. snuggle up on the couch and relax together as you enjoy the movie. You may have a little snack during the movie. Try some strawberries maybe dipped in a little chocolate. Try feeding some to your man trust me he will enjoy it. ( strawberries are usually cheaper at a fruit market or store like Aldi’s or save a lot and chocolate syrup around 2.00)
Now, the movie is over. I’m a firm believer that feeling like you look good is a huge aphrodisiac, so excuse yourself to the bathroom( where you have some lingerie or even his tshirt and some cute panties waiting) fluff up the hair a bit ( men love that just out of bed look) & put a little ( or alot) of makeup on & a little perfume or scented lotion ( but please no food scents likes vanilla or sugar cookie, you dont want your man thinking about food).
No matter what size we are or age, WE ARE SEXY!!! Come on, say it aloud!! I AM SEXY! And guess what? Your man thinks so too!!!! Confidence and a little arrogance are a turn on to most men. If you think you look good, guess what? So do others!!!
Give each other a mini massage! The feet are always good because of the pressure points linked to every other part of the body. Talk to each other while you massage. NO talking about work or kids or money problems. Talk to each other about hopes and dreams or even fantasies. Think about it. When was the last conversation you had with each other that did not include all the daily problems? Look into each others eyes when you talk and yes this means leaving the lights on!! you’re beautiful!!! Then let the night go where it may!!!!
Now you have a beautiful, romantic night together for less than 12.00. Thats the price of one movie ticket! Have Fun!!!!
MEATLOAF
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell’s® Condensed Tomato Soup
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1 egg, beaten
1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup water
1.Thoroughly mix the beef, 1/2 cup soup, bread crumbs, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce and black pepper in a large bowl. Place the beef mixture into a shallow 3-quart baking pan and shape firmly into an 8 x 4-inch loaf.
2.Bake at 350°F. for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through. Let the meatloaf stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
3.Heat 2 tablespoons pan drippings, remaining soup and water in a 1-quart saucepan over medium-high heat until the mixture is hot and bubbling. Serve the soup mixture with the meatloaf.
GREEN BEANS
2 pounds fresh green beans
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
Ground black pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, cut in half
1.Heat the oven to 350°F.
2.Wash and trim the beans and spread them in a 17 x 11-inch roasting pan. Sprinkle the beans with the oregano and pepper. Pour the oil over the beans and toss to coat.
3.Bake for 10 minutes. Remove the beans from the oven and squeeze the lemon juice over them. Bake for 10 minutes or until the beans are tender.