Date Night .... It's a must!!!

So recently our stake had a Womens Conference. The theme of the conference was the parable of the 10 Virgins. The idea was to go around to differnt booth and fill your lamp. They had all sorts of different ideas and items there. Our booth was date night. I'm proud to say that with the rare exception of just a few weeks Carter and I have continued go on a date every week for the past 2 1/2 years. We actually look forward to it. So I thought it might be nice if I posted some of our favorite cost friendly ideas for others to enjoy. I can't guarantee that once we have children we'll continue to date on a weekly basis, but we're going to give it our best shot.

1. Play a favorite board game, or challenge each other to childhood games—such as marbles, jacks, and hopscotch.
2. Make cookies and take some to a neighbor’s house. Place them on the doorstep, then knock or ring the bell and run to hide.
3. Read a book, the scriptures, or the Ensign together. If you prefer, read a book during the month, then discuss it in depth on your date night.
4. Make a list of the goals you want to accomplish in one, five, ten, or twenty-five years. Seal these lists in envelopes with a “to-open” date written clearly on the front.
5. Make holiday (Christmas, Easter, etc.) decorations for your home. Make Christmas gifts for family members or friends.
6. Plant a garden or a tree.
7. Dance to old records or to music on the radio. Learn new steps together.
8. Plan a special midnight supper, barbecue, picnic (summer or winter), make-your-own-pizza party, or candlelight dinner.
9. Make popcorn. Watch a favorite television show, video, or athletic event.
10. Refinish a piece of furniture for your home.
11. Read past entries from journals. Look at old photo albums and high-school yearbooks. Learn about your spouse’s childhood and teen years.
12. Plan an upcoming vacation or a second honeymoon—even if it’s only imaginary.