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www.FredParent.NET 43 FAMILY VALUES stoKE tHE EmBErs The element of surprise is not to be overlooked. Everyone likes a surprise from a loved one. Don't go for the big ones—think small. Hop over and sit by them on the couch. Open the door. Cook a favorite. Catch a few dance steps in the living room. Send an unexpected text. Leave an "I love you" note. Hold hands. FaN tHE FlamE Breathe some life back into the embers. Some use a bellows, puffing life into the heart, while others breathe slow wisps. Try an unexpect- ed whisper in an ear. Look through old photos, maybe even a wedding album. Remind yourself where it all began. Remember how it felt when they were all you could think about. Relive favor- ite dates. Take a stroll down memory lane. Or, if possible, take a live visit to the places of the "firsts"; first date, first kiss, your engagement or first vacation together. tHroW oN a loG Every fire needs a new log from time to time. Is it time to add one? Engaging together is fuel for love and passion. It takes intentional focus to reconnect. You can try talking alone, writing a love letter, spending an evening at home, going on a date or a walk, or taking a weekend away or vacation. Every healthy relationship requires time. If it is withheld, the fire will surely go out. Glance across the table. How's your fire burn- ing? It doesn't require a lot, just a little thought and action. A glowing blaze is worth it. Gotta run...Got a fire to tend. Elaine Stone, mother of three, lives in Spotsylvania. " " Love cannot endure indifference. It needs to be wanted. Like a lamp, it needs to be fed out of the oil of another's heart, or its flame burns low. ~ Henry Ward Beecher