Ned suddenly burst into laughter. “One thing that makes you so interesting, Nancy, is that I never know when I ask you to go out, what mystery will come our way!”
-Sign of the Twisted Candles
It does seem as if Nancy Drew and Ned Nickerson have been together forever. Yet Nancy is able to keep Ned interested, even when she’s busy solving a crime. He’s fascinated by her independence, intelligence, and stick-to-itiveness, and he often joins in her mysterious adventures. More than once those adventures have been dangerous, even life threatening, but perhaps that’s part of the appeal. Keeping romance alive over the years–and even decades–can be a challenge, but if anyone can be considered an expert in this area, it’s Nancy Drew.
1. Surprise him. Do something out of the ordinary once in a while to shake things up and catch him off guard. For example, you might send him a mysterious letter to decode or have chocolate chip cookies delivered to his dorm or office, just to say, “I’m thinking of you.”
2. Do something he likes to do. While many couples share a lot of interests, they often have their own separate activities as well. Enchant him by joining in one of his hobbies or activities from time to time. He’ll appreciate the gesture.
3. Listen to him. Sometimes we take our partner for granted and forget to really listen to him. If he’s had a bad day at the university or office, pay attention by making eye contact, nodding in understanding, and adding your comments in support. You don’t have to solve his problems, just allow him to express his emotions.
4. Plan a different kind of date. If you’re stuck in a rut, such as going to the same movie house or hanging out with the same friends, try something different. You might go to a séance, take a cruise to an exotic location, head for a dude ranch, or take in the circus. It can be anything, as long as it’s new to the two of you.
5. Compliment your man. Be specific. Remark on his looks and style sense (”Your eyes sparkle when you wear blue!”); or his recent accomplishments (”I’m so proud of your promotion!”); or his athleticism (”You really hit that ball out of the park!”).
6. Remind him why he loves you. Not overtly, of course, but in subtle ways. For example, if he loves your apple crisp, make it for him often. If he loves to hear your latest sleuthing triumphs, regale him with the clues in your current case. And if he loves to have you all to himself, spend a romantic, stay-in evening with him.
