FocusOnTheFamily

Cheap dates, rich rewards

Written by Greg Asimakoupoulos

Sadly, the cost associated with maintaining a vibrant marriage mounts with inflation. Dinners out add up; so do tickets for a day on the slopes, a night at the movies and a weekend at the beach. When paying off kids’ university tuition, maintaining an aging home and quenching the car’s thirst for gasoline, money for dates can be limited. Fortunately, fun times with your mate need not require a small fortune.

Exercise rendezvous

As Wendy and I entered our 50s, we recognized our tendency to gain weight while eating modest amounts. Counting calories wasn’t sufficient; we needed to add an exercise regimen to our day. We started walking in our neighbourhood. Not only did we work up a sweat (we could cover over four kilometres in just 45 minutes), but we also brought up hopes and concerns we had for our grown girls and aging parents. We held hands and prayed aloud while taking our route in stride.

Cup of tea?

On lazy Saturdays in the summer, Wendy and I head to an older part of town where local farmers and artisans market their fruit, flowers and crafts. We stroll by the stalls chatting with the vendors and nibbling on the free samples. It’s a rare day that we buy any knick-knacks, but without fail, we stop by a little shop that sells loose tea and kitchen gadgets. We’ll pour a cup or two of hot tea and enjoy the morning.

Breakfast for two

Ever since we started courting, Wendy and I have enjoyed eating out. Early on, we discovered that breakfast is the least expensive meal. What makes such occasions even more affordable is splitting a meal, such as a four-egg omelette. Portions are usually so big, it’s easy to share. The reality is that it’s possible to date without breaking the bank. After being married 26 years, we’ve found dating is the fuel that keeps our marriage running. And fortunately, it isn’t nearly as costly as what I’m paying at the pump. Greg enjoys the rich rewards of cheap dating in Mercer Island, Washington.

© 2008 Focus on the Family. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Used by permission.

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