(Photo by http://www.pnpvideo.com)

A lot of people think a good date consists of lavish dinners at fancy restaurants, romantic canoe rides, etc. But sometimes, the best dates are quiet nights in filled with movies, popcorn and an amazing dinner that you cooked. Here are some tips on how to make your evening in just as amazing as an evening out:

• Rent a good movie! Steer clear of chick flicks (although the good ones will let you sneak in a good chick flick every once in a while.) “Say Anything” is a good in-between. John Cusack is adorably affable, and even the manliest man will fall in love with “Say Anything.” Pop in the DVD (or video cassette if you’re old school…) curl up on the couch, and enjoy the movie!
• Bonfire? If your dad is anything like my dad, he can whip up a roaring fire in no time. Or, if your dad isn’t an eagle scout, an electric fire does the trick. Imagine any romantic film montages- the majority of them have at least one clip of a couple cuddling and roasting marshmallows. Just try it- you’ll understand the appeal after spending the night by the fire…kissing if you’re lucky!
• Make a bangin’ dinner. Hawaiian Luau chicken is really easy and delicious. My clueless roommates made it, and it was fantastic- a perfect meal for your stay-at-home date.

Hawaiian Luau Chicken:

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup barbecue sauce

1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 tablespoon cornstarch

Directions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Place chicken breasts in a baking dish that has been greased or sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. In a shallow bowl, stir together barbecue sauce, pineapple, ginger and cornstarch. Pour over chicken. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 to 1 ½ hours.

This serves 4-6 people. Use chicken as your main dish, and rice is an excellent side dish.

• Lock your little sister in her bedroom! One of the biggest distractions during a stay-in date is little siblings. From personal experience, they enjoy candy or cash. Bribe them if you have to! Do whatever you can (obviously to a certain extent…) to get that alone time. Side Note: It’s one thing to be annoyed with younger sibs. But remember that somewhere deep, deep down, you love them. Don’t leave them out of your relationship! Your boyfriend should understand that and want to get to know your family.
• Sporcle.com is one of the best websites around! Switch off taking the quizzes and see who the master of pointless trivia is. Personal Favorites? Countries of the World and Name the Toy.

Next time your boyfriend wants to take you on an extravagant date, suggest staying in. Whip up some dinner and enjoy the night together!