Relationships take work, but making an effort doesn’t have to be a drag. Inject some imaginative and goofy play into your lovemaking routine by following these tips from real North Shore women — all of whom have sworn me to secrecy about their identities. Many couples only feel truly uninhibited in a hotel room or when their kids are out of the house, but the truth is, adult play dates are easiest to schedule at home in the evening. So before the games begin, make sure you have a decent lock on your bedroom door so you can get silly without worrying about interruptions. 1. Go on the Prowl Make a regular date night extra exciting by letting your inner bad girl run the show. Get a bikini wax and a manicure in a deep, vampy shade. Send a risqué text or email to your mate early in the day, wear slinky lingerie to dinner, give him a peek at unexpectedly bare thighs over stockings, or hand him your panties on the way back from the restroom. It’s so wanton and unladylike, he’ll love it — and according to my seductive sources, you will too. 2. Hello, Stranger A friend and her husband often use role-play to get in the mood. At bedtime she might say to her man, “Hey Mister, you look like a guy who has a hot wife.” Then he’ll look her up and down and say, “I do have a hot wife, but she’s not as hot as you.” Then the two “strangers” go on to have a passionate night. To heighten the illusion of newness, create a sexy scenario and dress the part — a blonde wig, cowboy hat, pirate eye patch, tall boots, whatever. If it doesn’t turn you on, at least you’ll share a good laugh. 3. Sweet Treats It’s fun to sip schnapps out of a navel or paint each other with liquid chocolate, but one local mother of four uses this trick to encourage her husband’s good behaviour. She’ll place a cherry lifesaver in an intimate spot about a half hour before having sex so when he explores the area he’s rewarded with a tasty, fruity surprise. (Note: Mint flavors are a no-no!) 4. Host a Quickie Only got a few minutes? Slip an invitation into your guy’s back pocket or dinner napkin saying, “Your presence is requested in the master bathroom from 8:35 to 8:42 p.m.” Chill little splits of champagne in the sink, light some candles, and wear nothing but high heels and clean fragrant skin under your bathrobe. When your guest arrives, he’ll be so impressed with your hostessing skills that the party will be rocking in no time — and your kids won’t even know you’ve gone. 5. Friendly Competition Games are fun, especially when something exciting is at stake. Play gin rummy, poker, or Scrabble with your partner and let the winner cash in for backrubs, foot massages, or any sexual favour of choice. 6. Bedtime Stories Many North Shore couples use fantasy and erotica to get their fires burning. Making up sexy stories, reading romantic literature aloud, or watching scenes from a steamy movie arouses the imagination as well as the libido. The brain is the biggest sex organ, so why not give it some fresh material? 7. New and Improved Couples who share good sex lives are inventive, so if you and your partner have gotten into a rut, it’s time to do something different to spice things up. What new location or position or sex toy or technique would you like to try? If you need ideas, ask your friends what they’ve been up to. It’s amazing what you might learn.