Want to treat your man to something special this summer?  Lyra Pappin has a few ideas he’s sure to love.Whether it’s a spring fling, a summer romance or a long-time sweetheart, the heat of the summer is a perfect excuse to heat up your relationship.  Sometimes women can get so caught up with our own high standards and expectations for our boyfriends, we forget to throw some extra effort their way.  With great weather comes a wide variety of outdoor activities that are sure to bring some new sparks to your relationship.  So skip the dinner and movie and do something a little more exciting with your boyfriend.

Pack Up the Romance

A picnic is a simple, classic idea that is perfect for any couple, new or old.  You can make it as light or heavy as you want, just make it special!  You could stick with champagne and strawberries or you can up the unique quotient by including a more delectable spread.  Grab a freshly baked baguette, some quality Brie, tomatoes and tasty meat from the local butcher.  For dessert, go for pears and chocolate, an amazing combo that is simple to prepare.  Don’t forget your portable iPod player and a blanket for the ultimate in cosy couplehood.

Get Sporty

You could surprise your boyfriend with tickets to a MLB game or for a more affordable way to have a good time, find out about your local elite teams and support your neighbourhood sports organizations.  For even bigger brownie points, why not head outdoors with your partner?  Whether your boyfriend plays soccer or loves golf, spending time teaching each other new skills and laughing together at the mishaps is a great way to bond and catch some rays.

Hike It Up

Your boyfriend might like this to be a reference to your skirt, but actually, I’m talking about hitting the dirt.  Trails, that is.  Almost every town has a conservation park or hiking trails nearby which are great exercise and fun to explore together.  The air is fresh, the atmosphere is calming…it’s perfect!  You can have fun pointing out different wildlife together or photographing the landscape.

Set Sail

Swimming is a typical summer sport, but for those who are a little more adventurous, summer sailing lessons can be a luxurious and relaxing way to spend time together.  Other simpler options could include paddle boats, fishing with friends, canoeing or kayaking.  All are readily available and if you aren’t an expert, no worries!  Lessons are fun to take together or you can have an expert take you out for a while.  The shared experience will leave great memories.

Get Your Grill On

Nothing says summer like barbecues and beer, and nothing says, “Hi, I’m a guy” like the thrill men get from this combo.  Whether you want to have a dinner date beneath the stars or organize a patio party for your boyfriend, this is a simple yet sizzling way straight to his heart.  Let’s face it, with most men, the simpler the better.  All you really need are the basics:  burgers, buns, hot dogs, beer and some condiments.  If you want to go the extra mile, grab a selection of imported beers and incorporate a beer tasting aspect into your night.  Some fancy cheeses for an upscale cheeseburger can also add a great twist.

Car Wash

This might not be the sexist idea of all time, but what guy wouldn’t love to have his girlfriend doing the whole Jessica Simpson-bikini-car-wash thing?  Guys love cars, they love bikinis and they love their girlfriends!  If you aren’t comfortable going as far as a skimpy swimsuit, you can wear whatever you feel cute and comfortable in.  It’s still a really nice treat for your boyfriend and he’s bound to be pleasantly surprised!  To add a more playful element, throw on some silly music or splash bubbles on him, making it a fun afternoon for both.

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selfless or selfish?

Take advantage of all that summer has to offer and make it a great one for you and your boyfriend.  While these may not all be your favourite summer plans, if you’re doing it for someone you love, it pretty much guarantees a good time.  Hey, what kind of boyfriend would he be if he didn’t cook up some payback summer treats for you?  So relax and enjoy the heat together!