We pass so quickly through the stages of romance that we don’t even notice the lack of romance in our everyday lives. That pitter patter of our hearts, that nervous flutter, gets lost in the hum drum of our everyday lives. Romantic rituals are a way of keeping that feeling alive.

Anticipation is a delicious part of a romantic getaway, but we don't always have the money or the time to get away. Send the kids away for a night. Send him an invitation that will entice him for an evening of intimacy. Call him, send him the perfect card, or write a poem on the back of a photo of the two of you laughing together.

Your shopping list for your at-home getaway:

2 Sumptuous bath towels
A bottle of Champagne
Chambord or cassis liqueur
2 champagne flutes
Bubble bath
Lots of candles
6 to 60 red roses

(note: If you do not drink alcoholic beverages, you can concoct your own libation for that romantic evening.)

Set the scene in advanced with passionate music and sensual candlelight. Before your lover arrives, place the champagne and glasses in ice next to the tub with the liqueur. To make a Red Rose Royale, pour an inch of liqueur into the flute and add chilled champagne. Top with a rose petal.

Fill the tub with steamy water and mountains of frothy bubbles. Undress and wrap yourself in one of your new, fluffy towels. Gather your roses. Begin in the bedroom and pull the petals of a rose and toss them on the bed. (Watch for thorns!) Scatter a trail of roses from bed to bath. Cover the bubble in the tub with a sprinkling of rose petals. From the tub, continue the trail to the door and greet your lover with his towel and your last rose. Retrace your steps and savor your romantic getaway.

The effects of an evening of intimacy will remain in your heart and soul throughout the busy week. A single rose on your desk….or his, will transport you back to your interlude. Feelings and memories linger long after the rose is gone.

A Romantic Getaway can be had, even without leaving your home.