The Art of Dating: Why It Matters

Josh and I have never really been movie date people. Going to a cinema is either the result of "needing" to see a particular film that's just come out (Deathly Hallows Part 2?) or of being so bored that we can't possibly come up with anything else more creative to do. Sitting side by side while craning our necks up towards a flashing screen is not worth upwards of $20.

We've always been of the opinion that the best dates are those that let you interact with your significant other on a personal level and witness how he or she interacts with the world around the two of you. This doesn't really happen at the movies in our experience.

Using your God-given creativity to devise unique ways to make something beautiful together, even if it's nothing more than memories, is incredibly rewarding for many reasons:

1. It provides a new perspective and new inspiration.
2. Feeling as though someone else understands your creative process is very encouraging, and your partner is much more likely to understand if he or she is a part of it.
3. It is a relaxing break from "real life" that still engages your mind and heart. Who wants to just shut down in front of a movie screen?
4. Synergy is a powerful force that drives two artists closer to a goal and closer to each other. In short, two can achieve more than one.

Even something like keeping your date under ten dollars can become a fun goal that helps you learn how to work together as a team. Below I have compiled a list of dates that will help you grow your love without shrinking your pocketbook. It just so happens that the best things in life money just can't buy. 

Stay tuned for some low-cost, high-love date ideas!

Also, check out Joshua Harris's book Boy Meets Girl: Say Hello to Courtship for lots of other great ideas for dates that really help draw the two of you closer together..

May your love story be lovely :-)