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Monkey Business

At-home Play for New Parents

By C.J. Johnson

"The Rocky Mountains are a half-hour drive from our home," says Don. "My wife and I like to take our dogs there and train them for hunting season. Sometimes we also drive south of the city and train them for field trials."

There are times when they train the dogs separately, but working as a team to hone the skills of their hunting dogs is a bond between them. The Younkers also spend time near their home with the Labradors. "As often as possible we pack up the dogs for a walk," he says. "They get exercise, Jessica gets some fresh air and we get time together." As a family they also enjoy time in the great outdoors hiking, biking and fishing. For the Younkers, stepping into nature with some of "man's best friends" is keeping their marriage close.

Life is full of unexpected opportunities. With the arrival of a new baby and the necessity to stay home more often, find ways to incorporate brand new rituals to strengthen your marriage. Make your child's birth an unexpected opportunity to grow closer to your partner.