3. Keep a List

Another way to avoid the milk snafu is to keep a list on the refrigerator door. When you find you are out of something, mark it on the list. The next person who goes to the store takes the list and buys whatever is needed. Then you start a new list. That way, things are not forgotten, and you won’t waste cell phone minutes with “Honey, are we out of pickles again?”

On that list, make sure you mentioned what brand you want, if you want something specific. Your spouse loves you, but he or she may not notice what brand or flavor coffee you drink every morning (this is helpful for the 1st year until you know each others brand preferences).

4. Housework Fun!

Yes, sharing housework. It is part of marriage. Landscapers and maids cost money. But you can make housework fun if you do it together. Cleaning up after dinner is a great casual way to chat about your day. Saturday mornings or Sunday afternoons can be a wonderful time spent outdoors together, digging in the flowerbeds or installing a hammock. If you want to paint the master bedroom, do it together! It may be a little messy, but it can also be fun with the right attitude. And then you get to enjoy it together when you are done.

5. Workout Together at Home

Gym memberships are expensive. But now you have a built-in spotter and coach who can help you get in those last ten sit-ups or push-ups. Jog together or do sit-ups on the living room floor. Get that adrenaline pumping and your hearts will go aflutter.

6. Skip the Movie Theater

Movie tickets cost an arm and leg these days- and you can forget about popcorn and sodas. A night at the cinema for two can run you 50 bucks! Instead, rent a movie, pop some microwave popcorn, and snuggle up on the couch. Plus, watching a movie at home gives you a little more privacy for in-the-dark cuddling.

7. Raid Mom’s Attic

You may only be able to afford cardboard boxes and sagging couches for furniture as you start off your marriage, but we bet your parents might have a lot of handy items stored away in their attic that they’d be more than happy to lend you. Grandpa’s old chair? Great! Aunt Verna’s coffee table? Cool! It may not all match, but it works, plus it has the added sentimentality of coming from your family. Maybe you might even be able to use your very own old baby crib someday (don’t gasp, I said someday).