Saving a relationship

Since the warmer weather is coming, you can find a babysitter and the two of you find a pretty park some where, pack a lunch and make a day of it. There are things you can find to do that takes very little, if any money. It's all about planning some personal quality time, that's all. Simple things like walks and bike rides make for some great memories.

I'm not clear on what type of ideas it is that you never come up with... Ideas on activities the two of you can share?

If so, that's easily remedied (and you don't have to spend money).

Are there any free events in your area? A town near me has free music in conjunction with its weekly farmer's markets.

You can pack a picnic lunch and go for a hike or go to the beach; visit a nearby park; check out summer Arts & Crafts fairs (you don't have to buy anything and looking's fun).

If you want to do something which costs money, make a plan to gradually save up the fee. Cancel a lunch out, or cut out that cup of Starbucks coffee and put the money you would have spent into your "Future Outings" jar!

It is tough to be out of work, especially when you were used to contributing (I am in that same boat) but you do not have to feel stuck at home. You could take a class to update your skills (or just for fun) or volunteer somewhere (you can even take your child with you to many places).

If you feel as though you are a valuable member of society with something to offer, you'll find that your feelings of jealousy will lessen and you'll be more accepting of your boyfriend's outside activities.

I'm sorry that you're feeling low. You're experiencing 'cabing fever' and you feel that you are worth more, and you do not get the respect or praise you deserve. In my opinion, your bf should not be 'going out' with the boys, but I do not know what the circumstances are. Your boyfriend's life is fullfilled, a job, a home, a girlfriend who is always home a child, friends. And there's nothing wrong with that. You just need to get out of your rut, you need to be you again. I know it's difficult right now, but you're doing a good thing taking care of your child, always remember that. But here is my answer on what you should do.....FREE THINGS!!! There are tons of FREE things to do! And all of them have to do with the great outdoors, so pack a lucnh, go to the park, the beach, the lake, the pool, feed the ducks, whatever!!! Then, splurge and go to a lower cost restaurant, like a buffet, or what the heck, Taco Bell or something. Please do not lose sight that we are ALL suffering in this recession...just because people SEEM like they are not, TRUST ME, they are...most people don't let it show because they have to keep plugging on! Good luck!!!

Since you are staying home now and saving money since you don't have to pay a sitter or Nursery, why not every two weeks take a few dollars of that and go to Dinner and a movie?It will keep you from being jealous of his time out, and keep your relationship on a even keel. Both of you deserve a night out, preferably with each other.Discuss getting a sitter every two weeks for 4 hours, and go out and have fun. Maybe he will decide that it's more fun to be with you and the baby. Good luck.

Go to a park, have a picnic, go to ourdoor festivals, which are free.  go to the movies usually during the week before 12 for $5.00, look for coupons for restaurants.  Once in a while just the both of you go out.  Or have friends come over and all bring different things to make a meal and play games.  Good luck!!

Belle, your live in boyfriend should be suppoting you mentally and emotionally.

If he can go out, why can't you ?  Why do you have to come up with all the answers ?  I'm sorry, he seems like a jerk.  If this man really cares for you, he will help take care of the child, help with the household chores and give you a break.  I know all about being out of work and being broke.  It's down right scarry.

We have hade our utilities cut off, our car taken away, and our home almost forclosed on.  One thing I could always count on is the support of my wife.

Can you say that about your boyfriend ? I hate to ask, but does he really love you or does he just use you for food and clean clothes and sex ?  Think long and hard about that and you will find the answer.

God bless you and keep in touch.  Every friend you have is one more answer to the puzzle.

Ken Reed Sr