Watch Out for Bedbugs - I Do Every Day - January 21

Watch Out for Bedbugs
By Lisa Lakey

One night, as the hubs and I were snuggling up and watching TV, something fluttered near my head. I tensed, sensing what was about to happen. Seconds later, it attacked. A giant (sort of) June bug flew straight at us. I dove left, and my husband dove right.

When we looked back, the flying offender was comfortably resting in our seats. And there we were, now at opposite ends of the room. We went from snuggling to fleeing in 0.7 seconds.

But flying bugs aren’t all we have to worry about. Ever heard of bedbugs?

No, not the things you worry about when staying at a not-so-5-star hotel. “Bedbugs” are all those things that get in between you and your spouse’s intimacy—kids, phones, entertainment, stress, etc. Anything that stops you and your spouse from heading to the bedroom for some private moments.

So how do you check for bedbugs? First, you have to know they’re there and identify them for what they are. For example, it’s hard to flirt with your spouse when your eyes are on your phone. If this is the case, your phone might be a bedbug.

After you have properly identified the source of the infestation, it’s time to exterminate. I’m not talking chemicals (although it might take a hefty dose of patience and an ibuprofen).

If a phone is your bedbug, set a time limit; no phones in hand after 8 p.m. Television? Turn it off after the kids are in bed a few times a week. Kids (yes, they can be bedbugs, too)? Tuck them in bed early a couple of nights, put a cup of water beside their bed, put an extra nightlight in their room, sing one more song … whatever it takes.

Don’t let these bedbugs come sneaking in between you and your honey. Instead of flying apart, see how fast you can come together.

Your bedroom should be a place of marital refuge. Read “10 Ways to Create a More Romantic Bedroom.”

The Good Stuff: Catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that spoil the vineyards, for our vineyards are in blossom. (Song of Solomon 2:15)

Action Points: What are the bedbugs in your marriage? Sit down with your spouse and identify any infestations. Then discuss any ideas to stop them from getting in the way of your intimacy.

Visit the FamilyLife® Website