As often as possible...the kids are older now so we have more opportunities than when they were little. Even if it is just getting in the car to get gas or pick up bread...it is valuable 'us' time.
Let me share with you what the OB/GYN (who delivered our firstborn) gave us the day I was discharged from the hospital (17 yrs ago)..
"Now that my job is done, may I give you a bit of advice that will ultimately have the most impact on this precious childs life, I believe much more than any book on childrearing will.
No matter how busy you become, and you won't believe how busy you will be, take every spare moment you have to remove yourself from parenting and nurture the intimate relationship that created this family. Date on a regular basis and have NO guilt for leaving your children with a sitter.
It all started with your love...the example you set in nurturing that love for eachother will be what your children will seek in mates (good or bad). If you do not see it as important, neither will they. You want your baby to be happy...the hugs, kisses and toys will do it for a short time, money, friendships and 'things' will be nice when they are older. But when they are adults (the longest period of their lives), they will fall back on what they have been taught by your example. They will thank you for not only staying together...but for staying in love. They will find happiness because you showed them how. "
Man....he was the best doctor and I didn't even realize it until I read those words. He was married to his wife for 40+ years and had 7 children (at the time).