Wallet a little thin these days? That shouldn't mean you have to cancel all your dates until things begin to look up in the finance department. The solution is to get creative and find reasonable and fun alternatives that require only pocket change and the right attitude or, with any luck, are absolutely free.

Here are nine ideas to get your creativity going.

VOLUNTEER TOGETHER. Find a local charity that involves some area of life you are passionate about, such as a soup kitchen or pet shelter. Volunteer for the day.

FREE DAY. Most art galleries and museums have a free day or free hours each month. For example, in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is free for L.A. County residents after 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. And admission at The Getty Center is always free. You'll be amazed how many museums have gone to a "pay as you wish" admission. Check museums in your area.

KARAOKE. Just hear me out. Karaoke is guaranteed to be a fun night, even if you can't carry a tune. Let your hair down; spring for a few drinks; and have a ball.

STARGAZE. When is the last time you laid down on a blanket and stared at the stars? Grab some hot chocolate, some warm blankets and your best gal or guy, and then try to find your favorite constellations. If you need some guidance, you can download apps like Star Tracker.

WINE OR BEER TOUR. Most tours of local breweries and wineries are free or only a few bucks — and so much fun. You'll learn some stuff you didn't know, get to taste a variety of drinks and have a great time.

WALK. Seriously. Whether it's in a park, downtown or along a waterfront, walking is such a good way to have a great talk and open up. Actually, you won't find a better activity to get to know each other. And you'll get a little exercise to boot.

HIKE. If you live in Colorado, as I do, you already know the meaning of hiking! There is no end to the number of hikes available, and they're all free. All you really have to pay for is gas to get to the trail, and a few snacks and bottles of water for the journey. Don't know of any hiking trails near you? Google the name of your city plus the word "tourist." You'll be amazed how many things there are to do, some of which you may not even be aware.

PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR. Grab your digital cameras or camera phones and take off. Just wander around and take pictures — of each other, your surroundings and so on. Open you eyes to really see and record all of the beauty that surrounds you.

HIT THE BOOKS. Whether it's a glorious central library downtown or a cozy regional bookstore, spend a few hours browsing. Talk about your favorite books. Browse the art and photography books, and point out what you like. You can be as corny or intellectual as you like. Grab a coffee, and then sit and chat.

Mary invites questions, comments and tips at mary@everydaycheapskate.com, or c/o Everyday Cheapskate, 12340 Seal Beach Blvd., Suite B-416, Seal Beach, CA 90740. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, a personal finance member website and the author of "Debt-Proof Living," released in 2014. To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com.