A regular newsletter designed to show you how to spend less for more.

Date Ideas for the Romantic, Fun and Pennywise Valentine's Day is here, and while you may want to make a statement, you don't have to spend a lot of money! Whether you are venturing out on a first date or have been married for years, it's essential to enjoy your couple life. And that doesn't necessarily mean spending a fortune on high-priced concert tickets or lavish dinners out!  Here are some inventive ways to have fun together day in day out, while keeping the romance fresh.

1) A Romantic Dinner at Home Put on some romantic music, light candles, and whip up a delicious meal for two. Look on the Internet for creative menu ideas and splurge at a Fresh Market or wine shop. Your costs will be well below a restaurant fare. Plus, cooking together can heat up the passion and set the tone for a sexy night together. 2) An Intimate Film Screening What are your favorite classic films? Have your own private film festival in the comfort of your own living room. Pick a theme that works for both of you.  Be it screwball comedies or film noir, cuddle up together on the couch and be entertained. 3) A Trip to the Zoo Unleash your inner child and take your date to the zoo. Maybe you'll be lucky enough to witness some mating rituals practiced by our furry or feathered friends. Somewhere between the bird house and the sea lions, you'll be holding hands, getting close to nature. 4) A Cultural Museum Outing Looking at artwork can open your mind and stimulate conversation. There is no need for clever talk — just take it all in and chat about the paintings and sculptures before you. Consider museums with "suggested" admission fees, which allow you to pay as you wish. 5) Events at Your Local Public High School or University This can be an inexpensive way to attend lectures, see plays or cheer on the football team. 6) A Visit to the Library See what's going on at your local library. Inquire about film screenings, lectures, and concerts — free of charge. It'll give you a chance to share in each other's interests. 7) Local Bookstore Readings Check your bookstore for scheduled events. You could meet your favorite author or attend a literary presentation. Think about getting an autographed copy of a book and have it dedicated to your date. 8) Tour a Local Brew Pub or Winery Sampling a variety of beers or wines will pick up your spirits and make for a fun outing. Invent silly ways to describe the various tastes such as "voluptuous" for full-bodied, "complicated" for complex, or you can just look up current wine tasting descriptions and see if your taste buds can discern them. 9) Head for the Great Outdoors Why not get some fresh air on a hike or bike ride? Pack a light lunch of sandwiches or some bread with fruit and cheese then look for a picturesque spot for a romantic lunch. 10) Volunteer Volunteering can be extremely fulfilling. So why not share this philanthropic experience? You will enrich your community while you bond with someone close to you. Look at VolunteerMatch, Idealist, and Network for Good for opportunities to help those less fortunate. The main goal here is to spend quality time together and deepen your appreciation of one another. You don't have to spend a lot of money to do that. In fact, the fun of coming up with unconventional, quirky dates will most likely bring you closer and certainly keep you from falling into a rut!