Whether you have been with your partner 3 months or 30 years, spending quality time together is an essential part of keeping a relationship on the right track. The good news is that even if you are really strapped for cash, you can still have great times together.

A quick call to your local trade of commerce or a look online should bring up a host of activities or events in your locality which either cost only a couple of bucks or are free. This is especially good in the summer as you can attend outdoor theater shows or concerts.

Due to the current economic clime, there are some real bargains to be had on theater and movies tickets during off peak times. It surely makes sense to be able to have 2 nights out midweek than just 1 on a Saturday. You get to spend more time together and save money.

Why not combine your date with taking some physical activity. Go on a long bicycle ride down one of the trails, or dig out your old tennis racket and head for the local park and have a few games on the free courts.

When we go camping, one of our essential items is the cheap and cheerful badminton set. Dig it out and play together in the back yard.

Everyone is struggling financially at the minute; gas prices are rising constantly and babysitters don't come cheap. There are some great nights in to be had with your loved one with are extremely frugal.

If you have young kids wait until after they are in bed, older kids can be bribed to stay out of the way with extra computer time etc. Then why not have a romantic picnic on the living room floor, or out in the yard?

When you have a busy life with kids etc it's very easy to start taking your relationship with your partner for granted. Spend as much time together as you can without the TV set, kids and other distractions.

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