I want to be more intentional about having regular dates with my husband. I know it is easy to get busy and not prioritize doing something together, but I also know it is essential to stay connected. Here are some tips to make spending time with your loved one a priority without breaking the bank.
Each month plan your date nights or outings
Once a new month hits, not having a plan will increase the likelihood of date night being forgotten. My husband and I have been guilty of this. Both of us can focus on other activities we need to do and forget to be intentional about going out—plan times to spend together and put them on your calendar. You can keep it simple and it doesn’t have to be expensive, just enjoy being with each other.
Dates don’t have to be complicated
It can be as simple as going out for ice cream or enjoying your favorite drink at a local coffee shop and chatting about your week.
Because I have 3 children of my own, I understand date nights are more difficult with young ones. Many times our time spent together was just watching a movie or playing a game after the kids went to bed. If your children are older, consider taking care of another couple’s children in order for them to go out on a date. We have appreciated the kindness of other couples who watched our kids while we went out.
Other simple ideas to try:
Go out to a movie. Take turns to pick and don’t complain or at least try not to (I may have grumbled once or twice when it was my husband’s turn and he chose Hit Man’s Body Guard), but also be respectful of each other. My husband knows not to take me to a horror movie.
Take a day trip to explore stores and restaurants in a nearby town. Break out of the routine of going to the same places where you live and see what other interesting spots can be found.
If you are both the outdoorsy type you could plan a fishing outing for the day and pack a picnic lunch.
Learn a new sport together or take dance lessons.
Be creative, especially if your budget is limited
Having a small budget can make going out on a date difficult. One of our most memorable Valentine’s dates was when my husband and I lived in Portland and couldn’t afford to eat out. We bought the kids a heart-shaped pizza from Papa Murphy’s and started a movie for them in the living room. Dan set up a card table in the middle of the kitchen with our nice tablecloth and dishes. He cooked up a couple of pepper steaks along with a tasty cream sauce for our dinner, and we enjoyed a wonderful meal like we were sitting in a restaurant.
Some inexpensive dates to consider:
Check out a local brewery or cider house. You can get a flight and share it.
Go for a walk or hike. Play tennis at the park or relax together at the beach (if it is close by).
Hunt for the best cupcakes in town. I am a cupcake lover and this would be so much fun.
Valentine’s Day is coming up. If you don’t like to go out on that night, because of the craziness, plan a stay-in date. Order takeout at a local restaurant (do it early), get those cupcakes, and settle down on the couch and watch a favorite movie.
What are your ideas for a simple or inexpensive date night?
Oil and Shine 