Date Night – a fun concept and vital to the success of any marriage, but doesn’t it seem to get lost in the hustle and bustle of dinner, dishes, homework, laundry, bathing, bed time stories and night time prayers?  By the time you collapse in to your bed at night, you barely have the energy to utter “good night” to your spouse!  Besides the time crunch, who has the money to fund date night?  The final bill at the end of the evening is sure to include babysitter fees, per child, per hour, 2 movie tickets and dinner.  Sometimes it can be a high price to pay for a small taste of sanity.

 Date night is possible with a little bit of effort and a commitment to taking time out for your marriage.

First, recognize the resources you have right at hand.  Find neighbors or families in your ward who are willing to “swap” babysitting services.  A family with children is sure to be interested in helping watch your kids, especially when they know the favor will be returned.  Take advantage of children’s functions, whether they be birthday parties, church get-togethers, or after school activities.  Sneak away for just an hour if that is all that time permits.  Don’t forget bedtime.  Date night can happen in your own home as long as you and your spouse are making a connection.

 Second, remember that dates don’t have to be grand or expensive.  Just taking time out to celebrate your spouse and your relationship is enough to keep your bond strong.  Keeping date night alive will not only better your marriage, but will set an example for your children who will soon be raising families on their own.

 Some great free dates that my husband and I enjoy are: