By Dr. Deborah Skomba

Summer invites us to breathe again. It’s a season filled with light, laughter, and longer days—an opportunity not just to recharge, but to reconnect with the one we love. And while it’s easy to get caught up in errands, obligations, and routines, I want to remind you: joy is a spiritual practice. And summer is the perfect time to enjoy one another—intentionally.

Yes, even in your marriage.

“Live happily with the woman you love through all the meaningless days of life that God has given you under the sun…”
— Ecclesiastes 9:9 (NLT)

This verse is more than poetic—it’s a divine nudge. God wants us to enjoy each other in marriage. To laugh, to share lighthearted moments, and to pause long enough to say, “I’m glad I get to do life with you.”

Before we dive into the date ideas, let me share a quick Hebrew word that reflects the heart of this blog: Sheva, the Hebrew word for seven.

Sheva comes from the root shaba (שָׁבַע), which means to swear an oath, to make a covenant, or to be complete. In Scripture, the number seven signifies God’s covenant, completion, and rest.

Why does this matter in a blog about fun?

Because joy in marriage is part of God’s covenant design. He created us to love and laugh, to live and enjoy one another—not just to endure each other. When we take time to pause, play, and be present with our spouse, we’re stepping into a rhythm of completeness, just like God did when He rested on the seventh day.

When we’re stressed or distant, laughter can often feel like the last thing on our minds. I’ve been there. There were seasons I didn’t think we’d make it. But God stepped in—and He used understanding, grace, and even playfulness to bring us back together.

When my husband and I took the APS Temperament Assessment (I would love to tell you more about this - it brought my husband and me closer together), we gained a deeper understanding of each other. I learned to express how I wanted to be loved, and he shared how deeply he needed to be respected. That clarity softened us, and from there, joy started to return.

Sometimes healing begins with laughter.

7 Summer Fun Date Night Ideas on a Budget

  1. Walk on the beach or a favorite trail – Let conversation flow naturally.
  2. Night swims – Refreshing, playful, screen-free connection.
  3. Watch a sunset – Be present in the stillness together.
  4. Dinner al fresco – Add candles or string lights and linger in conversation.
  5. Invite friends or family over for a BBQ – Share laughter and lighten the mood.
  6. Attend a minor league baseball game – Cheer, snack, and just have fun.
  7. Meaningful conversations under the stars – Talk about your dreams, not just your to-do list.

Choose Joy—Intentionally

If you’ve felt stuck in your marriage, here’s your invitation:
Don’t wait for the other person to change. Let joy start with you.

Start by expressing gratitude.
Choose laughter over irritation.
Invite your spouse to try one of these ideas with you—and see how even the smallest intentional act can soften the heart and build connection.

Let’s Hear from You

Which idea will you try first?
Leave a comment or email me—I’d love to celebrate your journey toward joy this summer.

And remember, joy isn’t separate from your faith—it’s a reflection of it.

Let’s Grow Together

"Better Marriage Podcast: The I do and I don't of everyday life," found on Apple, Spotify and Here 🙂

Next Steps

  • Need help building or rebuilding your marriage? Let’s talk. Book a 20-minute clarity call with me today. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE
  • 10 Questions Every Couple Should Ask Before the Ring. It’s not a checklist—it’s a tool for clarity, communication, and confirmation. It helps couples slow down and see the red flags and the real, God-given strengths they already carry. CLICK HERE FOR GUIDE

Know a Couple Who Needs Clarity Before the Ring?

If you know someone who’s seriously dating or newly engaged, I’d be honored if you referred them to Before the Ring. When they complete the program, I’ll send you a $25 Amazon Gift Card as a thank-you. Have them mention your name when they sign up.

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Let’s walk forward - together.

With grace and joy,
Dr. Deborah

Founder, Heart to Heart Ministry and Coaching
"Helping you align your life, relationships, and calling with God’s design—so you can live and lead with purpose."