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  Even the happiest of relationships can hit a dry spell. When this happens, you need to find ways to spice up your relationship and reconnect with your partner. That is not as hard as it may seem at first. With some creativity and a bit of forthrightness, you and your partner can fire up the old excitement again.
  
  

Communication

• Tell your partner what you want out of your relationship, both physically and emotionally. Make sure to tell your partner what you do not want, as well. Then listen to him when he gives his feedback to you. Both of you need to be open and non-judgmental.
  
  

Honesty

• You don't have to be nasty when you tell your partner how you feel, but you should be honest. Otherwise, things might never change. The older you are, the more likely things will never change, which both of you may have to accept. The question is, can you live with this person and can she live with you?
  
  

Invest in Non-Sexual Intimacy

• Smile at your partner while you make direct eye contact. Rub his back. Cuddle with him on the sofa while you watch your favorite television program. Non-sexual intimacy throughout the day can lead to intense passion once one of you lights the sexual candle.
  
  

Let's Get Physical

• Go on walks with your spouse. Go hiking, jogging, or golfing. Do anything that forces you to spend quality time with each other.
  
  If you are out of shape, plan on going for walks first. They can be short, half-mile walks that gradually grow into two- to five-mile walks. The longer you are together, doing something as a couple, the more you can connect with each other.
  
  

Take a Blast to the Past

• Reminiscing can be fun, if you focus on the positive memories. Talk about the day you met your partner, what you felt when you first saw her, and when you fell in love with her.
  
  Also talk about the things you used to do before you got married. What was the best time that you had? What was the funniest? What was the worst time . . . that you can laugh about now?
  
  

Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

• When was the last time you did something that was completely out of your normal routine? Let's face it, we're all creatures of habit.
  
  Think about all the things that you have yet to do with your spouse and write them down. You may have put off an adventurous water rafting trip. You may want to go to a quaint bed and breakfast but keep putting it off for when you can better afford it. Whatever it is, don't think about it. Do it.
  
  

Plan a Staycation

• Send the kids off to Grandma's for the weekend and plan a couple's weekend for you and your partner. Turn off the telephone. Pause the mail. Park your car at Grandma's so you will give the neighbors the illusion that you are not home.