Active Relationship

Saying 'I love you' to your partner can mean a lot but doesn't really convey very much.  What you need to consider is that 'love' is a verb - a 'doing' word.  So instead of telling the love of your life that you love them, why not show them by your actions!

What is it that your partner craves most?  Is it 10 minutes peace and quiet in the morning to scan the newspaper whilst they drink their coffee?  Think about how you could arrange that for them.  Not every morning, that would start to become a routine.  Rearranging the usual schedule once in a while so that you take a cup of coffee and the newspaper to them in bed as they wake up, and let them enjoy it whilst you take care of the normal morning routine however, is a great way of starting the day with a silent 'I love you'.

Would your partner love to have a bubble bath before bed, but is usually so tired by the time she's finished with the chores that she just jumps into the shower before collapsing into bed?  While she's busy with other things, run that bubble bath for her.  Light a few candles if you have them.  Fluff up a couple of towels; leave a magazine and something to drink near the tub.  Once you're prepared, go and collect her, and leave her to enjoy the soak whilst you finish up whichever chore she was busy with.

Does your partner have a favorite hobby?  When you're doing the grocery shopping add a magazine associated with this to your shopping cart and leave it on their chair to see when they come home.   On a similar theme, if your partner has mentioned wanting to join an association or organization for their hobby but hasn't managed to find the money to do so, put a little money aside each week until you have enough and then send off the application form.  Imagine the surprise when the membership pack arrives!

Is there something that your partner hates to do - for example, washing the car, vacuuming the floor, bathing the dog, etc?  Next time it's time for it to be done, wait until they're out of the way and then do it - no questions, no discussion, no warning - it's just done!

Often the smallest gestures can mean a lot.  For example, running your finger softly down the cheek of your loved one as you pass, or placing your hand on theirs as you sit in a restaurant.  Think about your body language with your partner.  Do you keep out of each other's space outside of intimate moments, or are you obviously a couple wherever you go together?  Whilst public shows of affection aren't for everyone - couples and observers alike - taking your partner's hand whilst you walk through the mall, or opening your partners car door for her and treating her as if she's someone special, shows your partner that you're proud to be with them.  That's another unspoken 'I love you'.

Whilst big gestures such as 'I love you' banners flown from aircraft, weekends at luxury spas or mini-breaks to a different city are very nice, nothing says I love you more than doing something that has added extra work to your day to create a treat for your partner.  Not only do they appreciate that you did this for them, but they also know that you love them enough understand what it is that will make them happy.  That's love, the verb, at work!