POOR IS THE NEW RICH

I'm not sure if anyone else out there has noticed lately, but the economy isn't doing so hot.

If you are like me, you may watch the TODAY show and it seems like every single segment all four hours long is about saving money. They are usually really stupid, not-in-any-way-practical-in-the-real-world type of suggestions (save money at the grocery store and still by all organic foods! European vacations on a budget!, etc, etc).

So, I decided to do my own Saving Money guide. And unlike Matt, Meredith, Al, and Ann, I actually tried this suggestion and have proven that it really works.

Like, in the real world and everything.

THE BEST DATE NIGHT OF YOUR LIFE FOR UNDER $20:
(well, maybe not the best but still pretty darn good)

Step 1: Drop your kids off at a friend's house (= free babysitting)

Step 2: Go home and fire up the grill. Our meal consisted of steak, asparagus, garlic-herb potatoes, pineapple, and bread. I spent about 20 bucks at the store and had more than enough food to feed four people. Sorry we didn't invite you.




Step 3: Enjoy an instant pudding and (generic) whipped topping (lite) parfait for dessert.

Step 4: Kick your husband's trash in a game of Skip-Bo. Seriously, he went down in flames. It was awesome.
Step 5: Go pick up your kids while your husband walks the dog. Because, remember, we are in the real world here and even though this is a date night, we still have responsibilities.

Step 6: Put the kids to bed and enjoy the rest of your night together, however you so choose. I don't need to know the details.