by Maureen Mower

Created on: March 01, 2007   Last Updated: April 23, 2007

Although I am married, both my husband and I feel it's important to keep the romance alive in whatever way we can. Quite often the details and distractions of daily life can leave little room for us to just be together and talk. From the beginning we both agreed that we needed to make time just for us, so approximately once a month, we set aside some time for a "date". Naturally, with a child to raise and many other bills to pay, our "mad money" is pretty limited, so our dates are simple and inexpensive, but still very enjoyable and romantic.

When we met, the very first place we went on a "date" was to Dunkin' Donuts (substitute any donut shop if you don't have Dunkin' Donuts in your area). We each got coffee and a donut, then sat in his car, just talking and getting to know each other. It was one of the most enjoyable dates I'd ever been on because we talked about so many things, and even held hands once we finished the donuts (it was the first date, after all).

Now that we're married, we will schedule an hour or so to have another Dunkin' Donuts date, and sometimes we will have one on the spur of the moment as well. It's a great way to get away from all those daily distractions (no kids, phone, computer, doorbell, etc.)and just be together. It gives us time to talk about anything that's on our minds, and sometimes we even make out a little. ;-)

Another thing that we will do on occasion is rent a movie. Unless it's something we really can't wait to see, we don't go to the movies much because they've become so expensive. But we will go to the local video store, rent one or two movies we both enjoy, buy some microwave popcorn, and then come home and snuggle together as we watch the films and eat our popcorn. Usually we plan this for a night when my son is sleeping over at a friend's house or something, so that we can be alone and should we want to do more than snuggle, there won't be any interruptions.

These are just two ideas for inexpensive dates. The best advice I can offer though, whether you are married, engaged, or just getting to know each other, is to remember that it's not about what you do or how much you spend; but about the quality of the time you spend together, and the intimacy (not just the physical kind) that you share. Keep those lines of communication open, and remember that the simple pleasures are often the best of all.

Learn more about this author, Maureen Mower.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.