As a wife and stay-at-home mother of two toddler boys and now a 6-month-old baby girl, I am constantly making lunches, driving the kids to sports practices, play-dates and birthday parties. Not to mention making meals, doing the laundry, breaking up toddler fights, and giving my family my love devotion and attention all the while trying to keep you all inspired through my blog posts LOL. As a business owner, my husband is battling deadlines, drumming up new business and commuting by train, Uber or car all around the city. The moment he steps in the door he’s playing baseball with the kids, supervising them while they ride bikes, bathing them and putting them to bed. We are hardworking parents. It can be all too easy not to prioritize romance in our marriage as a result of the demands of work and family life.
So we have to be intentional about regularly spending time with one another. Our hope is that by putting our marriage first, even before the kids, we are setting a foundation of love that is strong enough to be a rock of security for all in our home. We want to model a marriage our kids will want one day—we want a love that, though imperfect, is a reflection of Christ & His church.
So we work at preserving and sparking our romance because it is vital for a healthy marriage. When my husband surprises me and takes the time to get a babysitter so we can spend time together I feel loved and pursued. I need that. After a great date (and a good night of sleep) I am refueled and recharged to be a better mother and partner than I was the day before . With that being said, I have 5 amazing recommendations for dates that will bring on all the feels.
ONE. CATCH LA. 
We celebrated my birthday last year at CATCH LA when I was just a month away from giving birth to Brielle. The gorgeous views of Downtown LA and the Hollywood Hills gave us quite a romantic scene. The entrance is just gorgeous— it’s like you are swept away in a tropical flower forest and it’s so perfect for pictures. The seafood was extremely fresh and well seasoned! We ordered seconds it was just that good. Can’t wait to visit again!
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TWO. The CASTAWAYS in Burbank. 
We have been going to the Castaways for years. Our family tradition has been to eat brunch there for Father’s Day after the guys have played golf at the onsite golf course—DeBells. I was bummed because they had closed for renovations but let me tell you—it has been worth the wait. Errol and I have gone twice to escape our children since Brielle has been born as it’s pretty close to the house. They have a really nice outdoor scene with dramatic panoramic city views. We have gone just to have a drink and chat—they’ve got good music too y’all. Our last time going there was our New Year’s Eve date where we showed our excitement about the new decade in roaring 20’s attire.
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THREE. Disneyland
Last year Errol and I ditched the kids and went to Disneyland solo for Valentine’s Day. Disneyland takes on a whole new feel without kids after dark. We also stayed in a hotel overnight which made Valentine’s Day really special. Disneyland also has a special after hours event for Valentine’s Day—you can check it out here: Sweetheart’s Night
FOUR. PERCH in Downtown Los Angeles!
One of our favorite brunch or dinner spots is Perch in Downtown Los Angeles. The views are impeccable. The food is fresh and not too expensive. Another perk is that they pretty much always have live music—which I love of course. There’s a rooftop bar if you just want to have a drink. If you visit during the holidays make sure to head across the street to Pershing Square for ice skating before or after your meal. And be sure to make a reservation to avoid the wait! http://perchla.com/
FIVE. The Swans at Echo Park Lake!
Soak in all the nostalgia as you and your date pedal in a swan-boat around the lake with the city skyline, lotus beds, turtles and fish to view! For one hour the boat rental is only $11 per adult! Can’t beat that! You can grab a bite to eat at Beacon—the on-site restaurant! For more information visit https://wheelfunrentals.com/ca/los-angeles/echo-park/
SIX. Catalina Island!
Just an hour away from Long Beach by ferry or 15 minutes by helicopter Catalina Island is a gorgeous get away destination right on the outskirts of Los Angeles! There are plenty of restaurants to eat at, arcades and candy shops if you’re just wanting to enjoy the island for a few hours before heading back to the city. Or, stay overnight and indulge in a little adventure with zip lining, tanning at the beach or hiking. Our stay at Snugg Harbor Inn made our visit extra special with homemade bread and breakfast delivered to our room in the morning and a wine and cheese reception each afternoon. Oh, and the ferry ride is free on your birthday!
SEVEN. The Getty in the Hills of Los Angeles!
I know I’ve recommended this as a great thing to do with your kids but it does make for the perfect date night as well. I’d recommend going an hour before sunset in the summertime— there’s so many exhibits and breathtaking city views. And the best part is it’s free! I still can’t believe that! For more info visit http://www.getty.edu/museum/
EIGHT. Go to a game!
One of the best dates my husband and I enjoyed was going to a college football game in the Fall. The tailgating, team spirit and all the excitement set off sparks of romance! Rooting for your team and eating the game-food is so much fun!
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Congratulations, love you