The 12 Days of Christmas Countdown: Day 9 (Dates Under the Mistletoe)

On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, chances for romancing, stockings for stuffing, greens for the trimming, cookies a-baking ... five golden rules, "You're Invited!" cards, ways to spread the love, and a little time reserved just for me.

Ask any parent why they go all out for the holidays and they'll more than likely tell you it's for the kids. The credit card debt, sugar comas and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer marathons are all willing sacrifices made for those cherub-cheeked youngsters.

But somewhere between assembling the new toys and sitting through that movie about chipmunks for the third time, mom and dad need to carve out a little time for themselves ... a little time for romance.

While you may not be able to find a lot of reasons to be glad the relatives are in town, there is one big one – free babysitting. The grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins only get to see your precious babes once or twice a year, so by all means, let them spend a little extra time one-on-one.

Dress your best and take your special someone out to a restaurant without a kids-eat-free option, or leave the sweats on and watch a movie you've been wanting to see – but never seem to have the time to – from the comfort of your couch. 

Candle-light dinners and strategically-placed mistletoe won't hurt, but if that's not your style, keep in mind that the real key here is to enjoy your party of two.

If your creativity is shot this time of year, here are a few "romancing" ideas you can steal:

• Dinner for Two: Definitely try to pick a restaurant with some holiday decor, such as Aurellio's Italian Grill, Mario's Luigis Downtown, J. Baldwin's, or even Shogun (not so much for decor as for the fiery style of service at this Japanese steakhouse). 
• Movie Date: Now is your chance to catch that PG-13, or Rated-R flick you've been waiting to see. Try a romantic comedy like Playing for Keeps starring heart-stopping Gerard Butler and Jessica Biel or a straight-up comedy such as The Guilt Trip with Seth Rogen and Barbra Streisand.  Both films are currently playing at MJR Partridge Creek. 
• Gift of Massage: Relax together, while someone else does all the work. Belle Sante Spa in St. Clair Shores is offering a couples massage special on its website now. You can give the gift of massage closer to home at Gina's Salon & Spa, too. 
• Cup of Joe: Reminisce over cappuccino and a slice of tiramisu at Luciano's Restaurant or snag two chairs by the fire at Biggby and order a cup of your favorite coffee or tea concoction. Then ... here you're on your own to come up with conversation.

Keep the mistletoe handy and happy romancing!