Earlier this month, Kevin and I had the opportunity to go on a double date with two of my close friends from high school. They were married in May, and are both working and going to school full time. Talking to them was like taking a glimpse into our life five years ago. Five years might as well have been twenty, as I couldn't help but feel so much older after our conversation on the phone, even though we are the same age. While I was afraid that the "beaming newlyweds" and "crusty old marrieds" might not end up having much in common in our different stages in life, we quickly found similar ground in our {lack of} funds department, which was surprisingly refreshing. After discussing our concerns, I went to work and planned out a few fun activities that would go easy on our purse strings.
Task #1: CHILDCARE
I was able to do some bartering when it came to finding a babysitter. I babysat my nephew the week before, and so my wonderful brother and sister-in-law babysat for us in exchange. My girls LOVE their Uncle "Bubby, Aunt "Rawvin," and baby cousin "Lannon," as well as the delicious pizza that they brought with them, so it was a win win situation.
Did I mention that bartering is awesome?Task #2: THE DATE
Our first destination was the beloved Yogurtland, where you pay by the ounce and portion control is really a matter of self control. We browsed through each flavor, resting at those that whispered sweet nothings to our taste buds, and then carefully built our creamy castles one spiral at a time. Next were the toppings which were displayed in salad buffet fashion, with cheesecake croutons and tubes of chocolate and caramel dressing. No fat free vinaigrettes here. If you feel overwhelmed just reading this, you should. It's quite delicious, and much more exciting than salad.
While I had offered to share with Kevin to reduce our costs even further, I realized that our yogurt creations could easily be labeled "his" and "hers," and as such, were not meant to be shared. His chocolate jimmies will never be my granola clusters, but it allowed for a glimmer of selfishness so we allowed it.
While I had offered to share with Kevin to reduce our costs even further, I realized that our yogurt creations could easily be labeled "his" and "hers," and as such, were not meant to be shared. His chocolate jimmies will never be my granola clusters, but it allowed for a glimmer of selfishness so we allowed it. After catching up on the latest and greatest in our seemingly separate worlds, we made our way to the nearby $3 theatre to catch a cheap flick. Because we had already eaten dinner, and our bodies were still recovering from our soft serve wonders, the normally mesmerizing aroma of golden popcorn bounced right off of our noses as we made our way to our seats, saving us another couple bucks. 
The movie ended up being pretty good. Good enough to distract us from the worn seats, sugarcoated floors, and large tear in the screen, and thus it was a success.
The movie ended up being pretty good. Good enough to distract us from the worn seats, sugarcoated floors, and large tear in the screen, and thus it was a success.Total bill per couple came out to around $12, which was awesome considering that we had treated ourselves to dessert and a movie. We had a great time and it didn't feel like we had shortchanged ourselves when it came to choices of food and entertainment.
While I could be happy with frozen yogurt and a movie every week, I'd love to hear some different date ideas.
What are your favorite frugal dates and money saving tricks when going out on the town?
Do share:)
Plan "b" involved partying at Peter Piper Pizza, at tables that were reserved for
It involved the "Feed the Flounder" bean bag toss, and a fish pond full of sea creatures including: 
It involved my very charitable in-laws buying pizza for everyone, for which I am eternally grateful.
It also involved fish bowl birthday cupcakes
that were quickly consumed and thoroughly enjoyed.
There were presents that were opened, 
a few games,
