7 Ways to Impress Your Date on a Dime
by Linda Rains

So Uncle Sam paid a visit and left you strapped for cash. Now without that extra coin, you say you're out of the dating scene? Hardly! The good news is that it doesn't take a wad of cash to wow a gal. What's required is a good ale dose of genuine interest to get our hearts pounding. And the best way to do that is with a little careful planning on your part. A touch of romance is key, and that's typically available for a very low price. So stash that wallet, find your date book, and get ready for love!

Get Fresh Together
Grab your date's hand and make your way down the aisle (no, not THAT aisle). Not only does the farmer's market offer fun while shopping for fresh produce (a truly entertaining combination), it's got the makings for a great dinner date. Fill up the fridge for less than 20 bucks and retire your date in the recliner while you do your best damage in the kitchen. The spicier the better!

Hit the Trails
By bike or by boot, taking to the dirt makes for a great workout AND a great date. Work up a sweat together and explore the great outdoors. For the truly adventurous and advanced, seek out more secluded trails and discover a little animal attraction!

Bowl Her Over
For sheer entertainment value, there's little that beats watching your loved one heave a hefty 12-pounder at a pile of pins. Strut your stuff down the lane and have a laugh at the new, unique positions each of you discover. Get the balls rolling!

Sing a Song
It costs little or nothing to stand in front of strangers and belt your best impersonation of Elvis, Abba or any other Karaoke favorite. Take turns singing popular solo selections, opt for a couple duets, and end the evening with a slow serenade. Alternate: take to the dance floor and discover swing, salsa and disco together.

Sun of a Beach
You needn't live on the coast to enjoy the water. Even us landlocked folks have access to local beaches on the lake. Strap on those sandals, load up a few snacks, and spend a day on the sand with your loved one.

Don't Forget the Standbys
A trip to the zoo, aquarium, or museum offers hours of entertainment at minimal cost. Best for afternoon get-togethers, you'll score extra points if you bone up on relevant trivia before going (mating season for monkeys, lifespan of the seahorse, the latest controversial display). Check Citysearch for attractions in your city.

Make a Racquet
Take to the tennis courts and bounce those balls around. Lack of athletic ability is no excuse - it takes little talent to lob a yellow ball back and forth. Bonus: awkward attempts to reach the tough shots will help to melt the ice.

Rough It
No need for fancy sleeping bags and pricey tents when camping (Hint: that's why it's called rouging it). Take your date to the nearest lake and stake your claim on a prime camping spot. Start a fire, sizzle up a few snacks, and spend a little quality time under the stars. (Don't forget to put that fire out!)

Park it
Grab the hacky-sack, Frisbee, softball and mitts. Then make a day of it at your local park. Fresh air, a few rays, lots of action, and plenty of laughs. What could make for a better date? How about a blanket and beverages for a little after-play rest and relaxation.

Dine Out
Surprise is a key element here, as is timing. Wait until nightfall when the moon is full and the stars are bright. Light a few candles and grill up your gal's favorite outdoor dinner. Blindfold those baby blues, then lead her to a night of outdoor seduction! The fuller the moon the better!