Paying for an Anniversary Dinner; Can We Afford it?

You've been married two years, 10 years, 50 years...whatever. You need to celebrate those milestones. With the divorce rate in this country hovering around 50 percent, anytime you reach another year, it is worth a dinner out, at least.



But in these trying times, can you afford it? You can't afford not to. You and your spouse need to put each other first. For one evening a year, don't think of the kids or the carpools or the bills or any other problem. You've got to have joy in your marriage. You're not roommates, you're a united couple, so act like one! Go out on the town, even if it means the local diner for an early-bird special or an all-you-can-eat buffet with a $5 off coupon. As long as the two of you go out and stare into each other's eyes for at least one hour! This doesn't have to be an elegant gourmet meal at the swankiest French restaurant in town. The local Dairy Queen will do (in a pinch.) In fact, don't wait for your anniversary. Try and make a point to have a quiet meal together once a month. And if you can't afford a night out, make it a picnic in the park with cheese from Sam's Club and some bread from your local bakery outlet. Don't let a lack of money ruin the good times. Remember when you were very young and very broke and you still had fun? Or if you are young and broke now, are you still having fun?



It's not about the money, it's about the relationship, and making a point of putting it first.