Like many American families we are struggling with an unusually tight budget right now, as our adult son moved back home after being laid off from long-term employment. We have scaled back on every non-necessity except one, which is our weekly dinner date.

Ever since our children were small we have tried out a different restaurant each Wednesday night. This mid-week treat was an opportunity to put aside our busy work and school schedules to come together as a family. Even now that our children are grown they often join us on Wednesdays for a family meal.

We have maintained this tradition by making use of coupons and discounts. Many restaurants offer special prices at certain times of the day. For instance, one restaurant chain offers half-price entrees after 10pm while another has a 5pm happy hour with free appetizers. Our local newspaper prints a section of coupons every Friday with some excellent deals that are often from newly opened eateries. I also look online for deals and have actually received valuable coupons in exchange for visiting or registering with certain websites.

Wednesday is still our dining out day. We might have to eat a little later or a little earlier than usual, use a coupon or settle for McDonalds but we always have a great time.What’s 1 more click? Your boss isn’t watching… Printable Kelloggs Coupons are Back