8 Sexy Ways to Spend Earth Hour

Get physical.

What's a cooped-up couple to do? Copulate, of course. Pretend electricity is not an option and you're unable to carry on with your usual evening routine. Then abide by all of the urban myths that suggest a baby boom occurs nine months after every blackout and blizzard, and get it on. Since you can plan ahead here, remember to use protection if you're not looking to procreate.

Enjoy a romantic, candlelit dinner.

Light some candles, pop the cork, and enjoy how good your mate looks illuminated by the soft glow. With no electricity, dinner will either need to be prepped and ready in advance of Earth Hour, or you could take the noncooked route. Think foods that are reputed aphrodisiacs: asparagus, almonds, figs, oysters, and chocolate for dessert. After sharing this spread, you'll want to keep the lights out for longer.

Gaze at the moon and stars.

Spread out a blanket in the yard or on your rooftop, and enjoy a view of the moon unobstructed by ambient light. Impress your partner with remarks such as "looks like Last Quarter" (which will be the moon's phase on March 29, 2008). The March full moon is known variously in different traditions as the Fish Moon, the Budding Moon, the Worm Moon - all of which reference the new season (fish spawn in spring, flowers begin to bloom - and, as spring robins know well, worms emerge). Tonight, it should also kick-start a little romance.

Play strip poker.

Listen to the bird and the bees.

Spring is in the air, and it's a good time to reconnect with the rhythm of the seasons by perking up those ears. Depending on where you live, you might hear the tiny, loud frogs known as spring peepers; owls hooting; insects chattering; or just the eerie silence of the city. No matter - draw each other close, and embrace in the natural noise of a TV and radio-free night.

Play charades. Nude.

Wear nothing but your birthday suit and put on your best performance in a round of charades. You know the rules - act out a phrase without talking. With no teams, it won't be much of a competition, but it will be fun to see what the dark does to your communication skills.

Make music.

Write a love song for your sweetie, and belt it out surrounded by candlelight. Not so good with words? Just use an old standby and strum along. Can't play? Fine. Call it a poem and recite. But you might want to have some of those oysters on hand.

What better time to contemplate your fate than when it's dark and spooky? Try your hand at palm reading. Pick up a book for beginners and learn the basics before darkness sets in. Be sure to focus on that love line. Or break out the old ouija board and ask questions about your future. Will you be together forever? Will you have kids? Will you get lucky at the end of Earth Hour?