Netflix and Chill

Netflix and chill. 

I'm sure if you're around teenagers/young adults or if you've been on social media over the past couple of months, this phrase isn't new to you.

Sounds relaxing right?

Not for me. I cringe every time I see or hear the words "Netflix and chill."

Let me clarify: I LOVE NETFLIX, and I really love kicking off my shoes and relaxing too.
But unfortunately, society has twisted this phrase into something that throws dating out of the window while instead encouraging couples to lay around in bed and indulge in the physical aspects of a relationship instead of truly spending quality time together.

When I look at my own relationship, I cannot imagine over a year of dating Mitchell where all we ever did was "Netflix and chill." Quite frankly, I don't see how one could even call "Netflix and chill" dating when the TV is the one doing all of the talking. And if I were to be completely honest, if my boyfriend was to try to cross physical boundaries with me while we were on that so-called date then he would have hit the curb before the movie was even over.

I don't mean this post to discourage watching a movie every now and then with your boyfriend or girlfriend, but I do hope it helps you to realize what dating is not because dating is so much more than lying around behind closed doors with your girlfriend or boyfriend.

Dating is a time where you are suppose to talk with and get to know your significant other.
Dating is a time where you are suppose to respect the heart, emotions, and body of the one you are with.
Dating is a time to go do things you might not have time or money for after marriage and especially after kids.
Dating is a time to make memories; memories that will last a lifetime.

Here's a glimpse of some of my favorite dates with Mitchell

Blueberry Picking

The Safari Park 

A visit to his work

Road trip to a baby canyon 

Ice Skating

Watched the sunset

Climbed a fire tower

Chased "waterfalls" 

I share all of this to say that actually dating is still in existence if you make the choice to GO, and it doesn't always have to be something formal or expensive!

Don't settle, and surely don't let "Netflix and chill" be the only stories you have to share with your grandchildren one day.