Sometimes it takes only a small gesture to help you reconnect with your partner. Although a weekend ski trip can do wonders in adding a little fun and romance to your relationship, you don’t always have to go all out to add a spark. Sometimes all you need to do is get out a pen and paper.

It’s one of those little gestures that many of us have heard about or thought about doing, but perhaps have forgotten to try recently – leaving love notes. Leaving a little note someplace unexpected will let your partner know that you've been thinking of them, and that you care enough to let them know. Remember how thrilled you were in school when a boy or girl you liked passed you a note or left something in your locker letting you know that they liked you, too? Why not bring that thrilling feeling into your adult relationship by "passing notes" with your partner? Even though you're all grown up now, it will still be exciting for them to know how much you care about them.

Here are some suggestions you may want to try:

• "I love you" is a great way to start. Who wouldn’t be delighted to get a note saying that from their partner? But don’t forget that you can also add a lift to your partner’s day with humor. "Shake it, Hot Pants" may not be as sincere as "I love you," but it will let your partner know (as they laugh) that you're thinking of them. And don't be shy! Feel free to spice it up as much as you like. How about a note letting your partner know exactly what sensual avenue you'd like to explore with them that evening? Let your imagination run wild. Remember, you get to write whatever you want – it's your note.


• Consider carefully where you'd like to hid your note. Underwear drawers are an all-time favorite, and hiding notes under your partner's pillow also works well. But sometimes an even more unexpected place can be fun. How about in the box of your partner's favorite cereal? That way the note will come spilling out first thing in the morning. Try to really surprise your partner – it's half of the fun. But be careful not to intrude on areas that your partner feels private about. You may not want to stick a goofy love note in her daily planner if she's very serious about keeping organized. And a sexy proposition may not be the best thing to have fluttering out of one's briefcase in the middle of a business meeting.

Leaving little notes for your partner can add a wonderful zip to both their day and yours. You get to feel sneaky and loving at the same time, and they get a caring surprise. A love note is a simple, delightful way to bring you instantly closer, no matter where you are.

Excerpt from Love Tune-Ups: 52 Fun Ways to Open Your Heart & Make Sparks Flyby Matthew McKay, Ph.D., Carole Honeychurch, M.A., and Angela Watrous