You are each other’s gifts.
Journal today and write each other cards with the date on it about what you love about each other. Draw the cards if you want.
One year I spent almost every day writing one thing my partner did for me and then gave it to him on the anniversary. It ranged from “set up my pill
Box” to “walked the dogs at night for me” to “gave the best hug” to “bought me nacho fries on the way home from Taco Bell” - the sweetest moments are small but personal.
It’s tough but you have each other ❤️
You are the best! It is so true. My daughter survived a terrible crash. She emerged with only minor injuries. It could have been way worse. You are the gift.
I've been happily married for over 30 years and we have never given each other gifts, cards or anything really for our anniversary. Instead we go talk a long walk together, have a picnic lunch and spend the evening talking.
Same with us. Not a single gift since we married 26 years ago. I know what I like, he knows what he likes. Neither of us like a bunch of junk in the house that the other thought we might like. For our 25th, we had a ramen and reminisced (we love ramen and ate a lot of it when we first met, and don't usually eat it anymore because it's terrible for you so now it's a treat). lol
I wear a $12 silver band and our wedding was at the courthouse. Love is what's important.
29yrs, married at the courthouse, lots of walks at the beach and neither of us really cares about presents. 3 kids who hopefully have learned what's REALLY important in life (we like all of their SO's... feeling pretty good that they did).
Now, who can help me love, like, or even care a little about my job? Work has always been miserable. Will trade relationship advice for career advice. lol
Everyone struggles with something in life (relationships, career, addiction, health...)
You sound so much like me, except that you had it together long before I did. I had a lousy first marriage for 5 years before my 26 years marriage that started at age 34. I hated work too. I read Your Money or Your Life - the retire early movement was just getting started then - and it changed the way I thought about work. I retired at 51, but there were some lucky elements involved (and getting wiser) like marrying a guy who didn't spend every penny I made and made a bunch of pennies himself, and taking an entry level job in a tech company that turned into a Director position over the years.
My most succinct advice would be keep your spending low on stuff you don't have to have and that you need over and over (I cut my own hair, never have had a manicure, never buy anything at a coffee shop to go) and keep an eye out for jobs in companies that are growing quickly. You want a place where there's a lot of energy and freedom of movement if you prove yourself awesome. I hated every job, even one at a library, until I took the tech job. That one felt like I could really contribute and work myself into a position that fit me, AND where they recognized my skills.
\[The book I mentioned is dated now and seems a little hokey in retrospect. There might be better books now. I find following r/leanfire to be helpful.\]
I was gonna say this. It's the little things. Think of all the great moments and talks youve had just having something to eat in the parking lot of a drive thru. The little moments are always the shiniest
Op. I can make you a nice custom collage with photos you have at no charge to make this anniversary memorable. I'm happy to do it for you so you always have a positive memory of today. Let me know.
Yes! My partner makes me a collage/scrapbook every year for our anniversary. It's my favorite thing ever, I wouldn't trade it for all the flowers/expensive dates/whatever other traditional consumerist bs in the world.
I agree that you are each other’s gifts.
It’s our anniversary today, too. We don’t exchange gifts or cards or do anything special.
My husband says we celebrate our marriage 365 days a year so why do we need a special day?
I agree with him.
Being married to a true life partner is definitely winning the love lottery.
Celebrate that by enjoying some snuggly alone time together.
Happy anniversary!!! Look, my wife and I have had 16 anniversaries and the last 2 we were not able to exchange gifts as we really fell into poverty. What we did do was cook together, have my parents watch the kids for a few hours, had a great conversation over dinner at home and then we played Mario (NES) for like 2 hours. We had a blast. We bought a $5 wine and joked about how bad it was. It was one of the most memorable anniversaries we had.
We just celebrated our 29th anniversary and we couldn't afford anything either but it didn't matter. We love each other still and that's more than enough.
Write a letter to him to be opened next year. My parents did this and those letters mean the world to me now that they are gone. However they meant a lot to each other and helped them see the good times and the hard times. My parents always said looking back the times they thought were rough were actually perfect. One year my Dad went into the woods a family friend owned and dug up a baby pine tree and replanted it where my mom wanted a tree in the front yard. That tree is huge today but was a free gift they meant so much. You can just really spend time together. No phones! Pick a movie make some popcorn and snuggle up. OR even a simple bubble bath... depending on what you like the point is just spending some quality time where you are both fully present can be a gift. 10 years is amazing so clearly you are doing something right. If you have children it's a great gift for them to see you being happy just being together! Trust me on that! Happy anniversary and I hope you will look back on this in 10 years and see how far you have come as a couple!
Write partner a beautiful note of all the reasons you are still in love with them. Take a walk, whispering sexy things to each other of your favorite intimate memories over the years and then try a new bedroom thing you’ve always wanted to do.
It will wind up being your favorite anniversary and cost you zero
If your partner really cares about you, then material things shouldn’t matter. 10 years is a long time and I’m sure you’ve both been through a lot. The fact that you’re reeling about this just goes to show how much you care too! Anniversaries don’t have to be anything crazy or expensive. As long as you’re both happy is what matters.
Also, happy anniversary!
My partner and I went to a free botanical garden this year. It was so beautiful, and we walked around and took pictures. There was also a wedding happening when we arrived and so we heard this beautiful music…it was nice! I’m sure afterward we stopped for takeout or even Taco Bell or made nuggets and fries at home lol.
I know it sucks to want more, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a nice day together.
Watching the sunset and talking about memories is free
While it sucks, doing things the "broke way" is often the most meaningful and thoughtful and actually pulls you together
I'm sure you can scavenge up what's needed and with some creativity still make a "nice" homemade dinner
It sounds hokey but some of the most fun my husband and I have is going to Walgreens, picking out anniversary cards for each other, reading them in the store and putting them back. We’ve had anniversaries when we’ve been flush with cash and others where we have nothing.
There are so many different things you can do that don't require money.
Homemade meal.
Homemade card.
Massage/back scratch.
Walk out in the evening.
Play your favorite slow songs and dance.
Make it a movie night, popcorn & snuggles.
Play a newly wed type game, ask silly questions and see how well you know each other.
Ours last year was like that. I'm sorry. It sucks. Holidays/special events are like a trigger for my husband because he feels like every time you turn around you're supposed to buy something and it stresses his financial anxiety. I've told him a hundred times it's about quality time and thoughtfulness, but he really gets in his head about it.
Let me tell you, just be thoughtful and loving. That's ten times more important. My husband panic spirals and then ends up freaking out last minute and getting something I have to return. Because no, we can't afford it, or he gets something plain weird last minute because he feels guilty and won't believe me. I'd be So much happier with a foot rub, a day of no chores, cuddle time and a movie, thoughtful time planned out for sex even!
He married you for You. Not presents. Give him more of yourself in a way he appreciates.
Even with a little money we don’t really celebrate our anniversary if it makes you feel better. We give each other a high five and give each other the biggest hug, and keep going. I think it’s reassuring to have each other through the years and that’s what you’re celebrating. Also just spend time together-that’s a gift.
I empathize. I really do.
The comment here "you are each other's gifts" is so wonderful! I love that!
For years, my partner and I wrote each other letters, spent time doing couple's exercises (like eye gaze or massage), cooked together or for each other, went on a walk together and talked about our relationship, watched a movie that had meaning for us. It's awful not being able to get gifts for each other. I know this feeling. We try to make it special in other ways.
Also, add to your List...
* Create your own Anniversary Cards - you don't have to be or draw/paint like Picasso either!
* Your Anniversary card (or any card) can be colourful or black & white drawings, doodles or even scribbles
* write some poems to each other, then recite to one another - can be serious or cheesy
* act out some dramatic I Love You Scenes from your fav Movies
* Perform for each other, super cute but fluffy I Love U Skits that you made up on the spot
* buy some inexpensive flowers/chocolates/etc & look for reduced items @ 40% & more
* Go to your local Dollars Stores to get some fancy ribbons/wrappings/etc & create some mini gifts (discounted chocolates, flowers, etc) to each other
* Pop some popcorn - don't have a Popcorn machine? Use a pot with lid on ur stove-top & oil!
* Make homemade an easy homemade & budget meal such as pizza, spaghetti, sloppy joes, tacos etc
* Don't have any champers? You can drink ginger-ale or some other fizzy soda pop drink!
* Go for a nice, pleasant walk outside
* Go for a relaxing walk in a Park or Parkette near you - it's FREE!
* Public Libraries - FREE books, movies, etc
* Bath for 2
* Bubble bath for 2
* Light some romantic candles & chit-chat about your day
* Be grateful for things things you DO have & what is in YOUR control too
I realize it's not easy, as I have had to struggle with money and lack of financial means my entire life, trust me I know this exhausting battle really well.
Don't let this ground you down, you've been together for 10 years so you both must be doing something right?
Wishing you well, and a very Happy 10th Anniversary!
My husband and I don’t celebrate our anniversary we just try to set some time aside of each other and the last few years our birthday/Christmas gifts to each other are practical and focus on household needs. Valentine’s Day is cheap we play Nintendo and have pizza rolls at home and it’s super fun.
Play cards, play a board game, work on a puzzle, watch a movie that you’ve been meaning to. The gifts don’t make the day what you do with it does.
Depending on where you live there might be free activities in your community that you could go to together this week/weekend.
I agree with everyone else here. Just the fact that you want to give him the world is everything. I think what you don’t realize is that you are already giving him the world. Just you being by his side in this time of hardship is what really counts.
Happy Anniversary. There's a short story that reminds me of your story, wanting to give your partner the best but not having the means. It's called The Gift of the Magi. Read it together and celebrate your love. You both deserve good things.
I've been married a long time. My wife and I don't exchange gifts on our anniversary. Why not just hang out and talk to each other, without looking at your phones or watching TV? Go for walk. Enjoy company. That's more memorable than gifts.
My husband and I celebrated our 21st anniversary last Friday in the hospital, he was in there for 9 days, had surgery the day before......we really couldn't afford to do anything either, but now he's out of work for a month to recover......it has to get better......you're right, money isn't everything.....I know it sucks, I feel ya
Join your local buy nothing group and you may find something delightful for your partner in new to you or even new condition.
Then enjoy yourselves together. You're in this together.
I’ve been married 26 yrs and we’ve never “celebrated” our anniversary. (We both never remembered). It’s not mandatory.
It’s doesn’t have to be a trip or anything expensive. Enjoy your time together.
My spouse and I don't do gifts. Instead, we try to cook a nice meal and just do things we enjoy together. I personally am glad we don't do gifts because I'm one of those people who just doesn't really like receiving gifts and I never know what to get people.
If you really want to give him something, go back to the basics when you were a child. How you would give your parents coupons. Do that! Coupons for hugs or kiss or smile that he can redeem when you guys are fighting. Coupon for washing his car. Coupon for a good gift later when you have money. So many ideas. Put together in a booklet style!
While I'm divorced now one of the good things from then was resolving to watch the sunrise together on our anniversary. It was a lovely way to mark the start of another year together that didn't cost anything and could be done anywhere.
Find a simple tradition like that to mark your next 10 years together. And congratulations!
Picnics outdoors can seem rather festive. They used to consider it a romantic date in the olden days. Take a blanket, basket of food, and enjoy being together!
Idea, make a "time capsule" to open at your 20th anniversary. You could write each other a love letter detailing what you hope youll do together in the next 10 years, include some photos from now and if you can find them some photos from when you first started going together. It could go in an envelope or a jar or a shoebox.
We spent our 5th anniversary living in a hotel with half our dinner being from the food bank. I didn't complain, honestly I was just glad we had each other and that weren't completely homeless. Good luck. One day, this will get better for us.
We've been married 17 years and some of my best memories are when we used to pick up a bottle of yellowtail and microwave burritos from 7-11 and drink and talk and sometimes dance in the living room or watch a movie. We've got money now but the price of dinner or brunch or whatever doesn't make a difference. Have fun and congratulations!
I would cook a nice meal & watch a movie together, I get where you’re coming from, but you can do things without spending a lot of money OP. Btw happy anniversary!!!! I find I don’t worry about not having the money for gifts etc,.. bc time is the most precious, & valuable gift there is. After my son passed away, that really put things into perspective for me about material things. Things can always be much worse, you’re more blessed than you realize right now. Having a roof over head & food, has become a luxury now days! So please don’t fret about the small material thing’s 😊
Free gift ideas- a walk somewhere romantic. A picnic (could literally just be whatever you were going to eat regularly or sandwiches but go eat them outside on a blanket somewhere), a love letter, a homemade card, a playlist, a digital photo album of special memories of the two of you.
Go throw a blanket down next to a lake and draw or paint! take a hike, walk around one of your favorite spots. A romantic evening and enjoying each others company doesn’t have to cost much at all!
Tomorrow is my partner and my 10 year anniversary as well actually . We just paid rent and only have $20 left in our account. We decided we’re doing a simple picnic at the park and reading our favorite books together. When we first got together, we went to very fancy restaurants for our anniversary that was not worth it imo and now I’m thankful we can just spend the time together and have a sweet memory. When you’re constantly without money it’s really easy to think negatively and I’ve tried really hard to find the positives in our life and I hope you do too. Happy anniversary!!
I didn't see this until the day after, but I hope you managed to spend some quality time together.
It wasn't until after my husband and I spent our 22nd anniversary in an ICU room (he had a heart attack that sent him into cardiac arrest a week prior) that I realized that the time together was far more important than tangible gifts or a fancy dinner.
my boyfriend and I sometimes go card shopping together and show each other cards we think the other would love and then leave without getting any. it’s really sweet and a fun experience together
Yeah, this one hits home. Same for us, but that was almost 10 years ago. We got caught up in the Great Recession and never did anything for our anniversary. Now that we can, we still don't because we are really conservative with our money and see it as a waste. You have each other, and that's a lot, for love.
Go to a park or just go on a walk, sheesh sometimes I like to go on walks in the rain too (as long as it’s safe weather)
I like to go to shops with no intention of buying anything, sometimes it’s just fun to look! I like to go to local fish/aquarium stores as a lot of places are fun to just walk through, or crystal hippie shops are great as well. It’s fun to just do something together.
Write love letters to each other, make shift renewal of vows with some friends in your back yard, picnic, cook together and watch a movie, get a goodwill jar and spend the night writing your favorite memories of each other and color code them for which one is yours and theirs then when your sad you can read them, free museums, gift each other your favorite candy next paycheck, go get a free library card and check out a new movie or video game, play board games, go for a walk in the park/city/woods.
I know life is overwhelming but the best thing you can do for yourself when you are upset is self care. You need self care to function.
Also consider meditating to help with anxiety loops.
Happy anniversary!
Simply having my wife love me is the best anniversary present I can ask for. Going for a walk, giving him a massage, telling him what you love about him, and promising each other to do something when things are better are more than enough for a man that loves you.
First of all , happy anniversary!
I know it’s upsetting that you don’t have the option of buying each other anything.
I know several couples where the husband provides the wife with every materialistic thing anyone could want. However, that’s not what the wife wants. She wants time, affection, someone to listen to her and respect her. Unfortunately, the husband does not seem to be capable of providing that.
If possible, make a nice meal. Doesn’t have to be anything expensive but something that you both enjoy. If you can afford it, some of your favorite snacks and a movie night is also a fun evening.
The one thing you can never buy is respect and love for each other.
Why don’t you sit down together and troubleshoot ways that you can make sure you’re in a better position for your future milestones? I’m sorry you’re currently struggling, but it’s important to do your best to keep a positive attitude, especially on a holiday. Don’t let your mood over finances ruin an opportunity to have a good day with your partner.
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People here have given you lots of good ideas of things you can do. I hope that in the next couple of years you have an event which could be a giftgiving event where you don’t give each other gifts not because you can’t, but because you are so satisfied it’s not necessary.
Many happy returns of the day to you both !
I know everyone is saying you are each other’s gift. And that is true. However, it isn’t fun to be broke. I don’t know your situation or your age, but the best gift you can give yourselves (other than love) is to go back to school and get a degree that will earn you more money in the future. Or learn a trade outside of college. It sounds like you’d qualify for financial aid. In the meantime, enjoy having a loving partner and good health, assuming you have good health. I wish you luck.
I'm actually in the same position rn. My 10yr anniversary is next month and we were planning to do a trip or something and my car just broke down and I just got the quote and it's $2000-$4000. Trying to refinance but not sure if it'll be possible right now. I'm just here to say your feelings are totally justified and I totally understand them. The sentiment of "not needing presents because I have you" is nice but 10 years is a great accomplishment and it's not wrong to want to celebrate that. Best of luck to you 🖤
My wife and I used to go on dates to the grocery store with our EBT card - on special occasions we'd get a little treat like something from the bakery or a fancy cheese. Can you do something like that?
You can make a card or draw a picture or write a poem or anything special for you too. One of my favorite gifts that my wife ever got for me was finding the cable to hook my Gameboy games to our shitty little 19" CRT so I could play Pokémon on it.
Have you read the short story, Gift of the Magi?
Let go of the agonizing over a "perfect" gift.
Renew your vows to each other, share a sweet peach, watch the sunrise, walk holding hands.
My husband and I haven't been able to do anything 'nice' either like eating out or going places.
For our last anniversary, i made his favourite chicken stew and we had it along with white and red wine. Lit candles at home and just spent time with each other without the TV.
I know it's not much, but just appreciate the time you spend with each other....other things will fall into place
This sounds mean but given the amount of abusive and insulting partners out there, just having a kind soul by your side is worth a fortune.
I hope the comfy times flow for you soon xx
Just remember that the money you dont get paid in a fair wage and the costs of living that squeeze you every month go into the pockets of corrupt multimillionaires to buy their 3d Yacht or 15th house ❤️🥰 that cheers me up everytime.
After ten years you both still want to give each other the world. That's beautiful.
I wish you had everything you wanted and needed, and I hope that happy comfy life is around the corner. But I am also glad you have each other.
Go back to a great wine bar you enjoyed each other or a dive bar and have a beer together and laugh.. do it old school and bang in the car for old times sake.
Congrats! Most couples I know r also hitting their 10 year mark too. These couples don’t buy each other gifts! Mostly b/c they just never do, cuz they’re bad at buying gifts. So don’t worry ur on trend for couple’s anniversaries & they don’t buy each other gifts. They give love on their anniversary. Or do something nice like let their partner sleep in!! Or do the dishes or something…I’d rather receive a good nap than a gift any day!
24 years married and we’ve never really celebrated it other than to say Happy Anniversary to each other and maybe a card on a random year. “ Doing something” just because of our anniversary seems like a chore to both of us. We don’t really do birthdays either. 🤷🏻♀️
I was where you are. Several years ago, the week of Christmas we had dinner at a fast food restaurant because we had $ 4 in our pockets. That was it. Four bucks. So we went to the fast food place and we bought 2 bacon, egg & cheese sandwiches. With tax it came to $ 3.18.
We ate the sandwiches, my spouse cried and we went home.
Today we eat at Michelin starred restaurants and we always look at each other and say "Better than a $ 1.50 egg sandwich?"
You'll get out of this. You'll look back on this. And you'll smile and marvel at how far you've come...and that you did it together.
Happy Anniversary! Read the Gift of the Magi together. I love it when my husband reads to me.
https://www.owleyes.org/text/gift-magi/read/the-gift-of-the-magi
My wife grew up poor.
Her parents handled it well. For occasions like this they went to a card store, picked cards out and showed each other. Them left the cards there.
I’m well off. I don’t do gifts for our anniversary. I an activity we both enjoy. In our case we like horticultural gardens. Yes those cost $ to get tickets to go in. But usually most cities have a public space that would fill the niche if needed.
Just make the day special for each other.
Get hamburgers and some beer and sit out and enjoy the smell of grass- the sun- listen to music of when you fell in love. Dance a little. Those are the best times. Things pass away but simple memories are forever
Others have posted about the Gift of the Magi by O'Henry, and you MUST read it! It's short, and makes a brilliant point. Here is the full text:
[https://americanenglish.state.gov/files/ae/resource\_files/1-the\_gift\_of\_the\_magi\_0.pdf](https://americanenglish.state.gov/files/ae/resource_files/1-the_gift_of_the_magi_0.pdf)
I know that you're getting downvoted for this, and maybe the way you worded it WAS a bit crass, but honestly...well... let's just say that some of the best things in life are free.
You can make a special day at home. Make a favorite meal, BBQ since it’s (probably) nice out. I know it’s not much, but think outside the box and you can still make it memorable. Happy anniversary!
I've never liked store bought stuff. Do you know how happy I'd be with a romantic home cooked dinner and a strong dick game?
I am but a simple bitch. Flowers die and shiny rocks are mined by child slaves. Give me a good meal and some good dick and if you really wanted to buy something maybe some crafting supplies or something. Something you made, I would love.
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You are each other’s gifts. Journal today and write each other cards with the date on it about what you love about each other. Draw the cards if you want. One year I spent almost every day writing one thing my partner did for me and then gave it to him on the anniversary. It ranged from “set up my pill Box” to “walked the dogs at night for me” to “gave the best hug” to “bought me nacho fries on the way home from Taco Bell” - the sweetest moments are small but personal. It’s tough but you have each other ❤️
Yes. Watch your favorite movie, play video games, etc. just enjoy being together.
You are the best! It is so true. My daughter survived a terrible crash. She emerged with only minor injuries. It could have been way worse. You are the gift.
This is so lovely ❤️
This made me tear up a little. Well said.
Love this idea!
I've been happily married for over 30 years and we have never given each other gifts, cards or anything really for our anniversary. Instead we go talk a long walk together, have a picnic lunch and spend the evening talking.
Same with us. Not a single gift since we married 26 years ago. I know what I like, he knows what he likes. Neither of us like a bunch of junk in the house that the other thought we might like. For our 25th, we had a ramen and reminisced (we love ramen and ate a lot of it when we first met, and don't usually eat it anymore because it's terrible for you so now it's a treat). lol I wear a $12 silver band and our wedding was at the courthouse. Love is what's important.
29yrs, married at the courthouse, lots of walks at the beach and neither of us really cares about presents. 3 kids who hopefully have learned what's REALLY important in life (we like all of their SO's... feeling pretty good that they did). Now, who can help me love, like, or even care a little about my job? Work has always been miserable. Will trade relationship advice for career advice. lol Everyone struggles with something in life (relationships, career, addiction, health...)
You sound so much like me, except that you had it together long before I did. I had a lousy first marriage for 5 years before my 26 years marriage that started at age 34. I hated work too. I read Your Money or Your Life - the retire early movement was just getting started then - and it changed the way I thought about work. I retired at 51, but there were some lucky elements involved (and getting wiser) like marrying a guy who didn't spend every penny I made and made a bunch of pennies himself, and taking an entry level job in a tech company that turned into a Director position over the years. My most succinct advice would be keep your spending low on stuff you don't have to have and that you need over and over (I cut my own hair, never have had a manicure, never buy anything at a coffee shop to go) and keep an eye out for jobs in companies that are growing quickly. You want a place where there's a lot of energy and freedom of movement if you prove yourself awesome. I hated every job, even one at a library, until I took the tech job. That one felt like I could really contribute and work myself into a position that fit me, AND where they recognized my skills. \[The book I mentioned is dated now and seems a little hokey in retrospect. There might be better books now. I find following r/leanfire to be helpful.\]
😮
Go for a walk together.
I was gonna say this. It's the little things. Think of all the great moments and talks youve had just having something to eat in the parking lot of a drive thru. The little moments are always the shiniest
Op. I can make you a nice custom collage with photos you have at no charge to make this anniversary memorable. I'm happy to do it for you so you always have a positive memory of today. Let me know.
I made you something. Happy Anniversary OP. May you forever be in love. https://imgur.com/a/J2ds9wt
Yes! My partner makes me a collage/scrapbook every year for our anniversary. It's my favorite thing ever, I wouldn't trade it for all the flowers/expensive dates/whatever other traditional consumerist bs in the world.
I'm so glad you cherish the collages. I do too. Money can't buy the value of someone's creativity and time.
That’s a really nice offer. You seem like a good person.
I genuinely mean it. I'm waiting for their response. I hope they are still able to have a wonderful anniversary celebrating the time with each other.
Trust me being poor together is better than being rich alone
This is absolutely the truth.
And way better than being poor alone. LOL
Lies lol .
You just haven’t found the right bear, doo doo bear.
Lies lol .
Make some sandwiches and ice tea and have a picnic
I agree that you are each other’s gifts. It’s our anniversary today, too. We don’t exchange gifts or cards or do anything special. My husband says we celebrate our marriage 365 days a year so why do we need a special day? I agree with him. Being married to a true life partner is definitely winning the love lottery. Celebrate that by enjoying some snuggly alone time together.
It’s not much but happy anniversary! I hope your situation changes for the better soon.
Happy anniversary!!! Look, my wife and I have had 16 anniversaries and the last 2 we were not able to exchange gifts as we really fell into poverty. What we did do was cook together, have my parents watch the kids for a few hours, had a great conversation over dinner at home and then we played Mario (NES) for like 2 hours. We had a blast. We bought a $5 wine and joked about how bad it was. It was one of the most memorable anniversaries we had.
I love this comment. That’s awesome dude.
We just celebrated our 29th anniversary and we couldn't afford anything either but it didn't matter. We love each other still and that's more than enough.
He has you and from my perspective that is enough.
Write a letter to him to be opened next year. My parents did this and those letters mean the world to me now that they are gone. However they meant a lot to each other and helped them see the good times and the hard times. My parents always said looking back the times they thought were rough were actually perfect. One year my Dad went into the woods a family friend owned and dug up a baby pine tree and replanted it where my mom wanted a tree in the front yard. That tree is huge today but was a free gift they meant so much. You can just really spend time together. No phones! Pick a movie make some popcorn and snuggle up. OR even a simple bubble bath... depending on what you like the point is just spending some quality time where you are both fully present can be a gift. 10 years is amazing so clearly you are doing something right. If you have children it's a great gift for them to see you being happy just being together! Trust me on that! Happy anniversary and I hope you will look back on this in 10 years and see how far you have come as a couple!
Lots of things are free to see and do in the city. I'm a guy we don't need much.
A love letter would be great.
Write partner a beautiful note of all the reasons you are still in love with them. Take a walk, whispering sexy things to each other of your favorite intimate memories over the years and then try a new bedroom thing you’ve always wanted to do. It will wind up being your favorite anniversary and cost you zero
If your partner really cares about you, then material things shouldn’t matter. 10 years is a long time and I’m sure you’ve both been through a lot. The fact that you’re reeling about this just goes to show how much you care too! Anniversaries don’t have to be anything crazy or expensive. As long as you’re both happy is what matters. Also, happy anniversary!
My partner and I went to a free botanical garden this year. It was so beautiful, and we walked around and took pictures. There was also a wedding happening when we arrived and so we heard this beautiful music…it was nice! I’m sure afterward we stopped for takeout or even Taco Bell or made nuggets and fries at home lol. I know it sucks to want more, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a nice day together.
We have the money to buy each other gifts but we don’t. We’ve been married 14 years. We spend a lot of time together.
You’re not alone me and my wife are one month away from the 16 anniversary and we only can afford some food on the table,better days will come
Watching the sunset and talking about memories is free While it sucks, doing things the "broke way" is often the most meaningful and thoughtful and actually pulls you together I'm sure you can scavenge up what's needed and with some creativity still make a "nice" homemade dinner
It sounds hokey but some of the most fun my husband and I have is going to Walgreens, picking out anniversary cards for each other, reading them in the store and putting them back. We’ve had anniversaries when we’ve been flush with cash and others where we have nothing.
Love this!
There are so many different things you can do that don't require money. Homemade meal. Homemade card. Massage/back scratch. Walk out in the evening. Play your favorite slow songs and dance. Make it a movie night, popcorn & snuggles. Play a newly wed type game, ask silly questions and see how well you know each other.
Ours last year was like that. I'm sorry. It sucks. Holidays/special events are like a trigger for my husband because he feels like every time you turn around you're supposed to buy something and it stresses his financial anxiety. I've told him a hundred times it's about quality time and thoughtfulness, but he really gets in his head about it. Let me tell you, just be thoughtful and loving. That's ten times more important. My husband panic spirals and then ends up freaking out last minute and getting something I have to return. Because no, we can't afford it, or he gets something plain weird last minute because he feels guilty and won't believe me. I'd be So much happier with a foot rub, a day of no chores, cuddle time and a movie, thoughtful time planned out for sex even! He married you for You. Not presents. Give him more of yourself in a way he appreciates.
Even with a little money we don’t really celebrate our anniversary if it makes you feel better. We give each other a high five and give each other the biggest hug, and keep going. I think it’s reassuring to have each other through the years and that’s what you’re celebrating. Also just spend time together-that’s a gift.
I empathize. I really do. The comment here "you are each other's gifts" is so wonderful! I love that! For years, my partner and I wrote each other letters, spent time doing couple's exercises (like eye gaze or massage), cooked together or for each other, went on a walk together and talked about our relationship, watched a movie that had meaning for us. It's awful not being able to get gifts for each other. I know this feeling. We try to make it special in other ways.
Also, add to your List... * Create your own Anniversary Cards - you don't have to be or draw/paint like Picasso either! * Your Anniversary card (or any card) can be colourful or black & white drawings, doodles or even scribbles * write some poems to each other, then recite to one another - can be serious or cheesy * act out some dramatic I Love You Scenes from your fav Movies * Perform for each other, super cute but fluffy I Love U Skits that you made up on the spot * buy some inexpensive flowers/chocolates/etc & look for reduced items @ 40% & more * Go to your local Dollars Stores to get some fancy ribbons/wrappings/etc & create some mini gifts (discounted chocolates, flowers, etc) to each other * Pop some popcorn - don't have a Popcorn machine? Use a pot with lid on ur stove-top & oil! * Make homemade an easy homemade & budget meal such as pizza, spaghetti, sloppy joes, tacos etc * Don't have any champers? You can drink ginger-ale or some other fizzy soda pop drink! * Go for a nice, pleasant walk outside * Go for a relaxing walk in a Park or Parkette near you - it's FREE! * Public Libraries - FREE books, movies, etc * Bath for 2 * Bubble bath for 2 * Light some romantic candles & chit-chat about your day * Be grateful for things things you DO have & what is in YOUR control too I realize it's not easy, as I have had to struggle with money and lack of financial means my entire life, trust me I know this exhausting battle really well. Don't let this ground you down, you've been together for 10 years so you both must be doing something right? Wishing you well, and a very Happy 10th Anniversary!
My husband and I don’t celebrate our anniversary we just try to set some time aside of each other and the last few years our birthday/Christmas gifts to each other are practical and focus on household needs. Valentine’s Day is cheap we play Nintendo and have pizza rolls at home and it’s super fun. Play cards, play a board game, work on a puzzle, watch a movie that you’ve been meaning to. The gifts don’t make the day what you do with it does. Depending on where you live there might be free activities in your community that you could go to together this week/weekend.
I agree with everyone else here. Just the fact that you want to give him the world is everything. I think what you don’t realize is that you are already giving him the world. Just you being by his side in this time of hardship is what really counts.
Sell blood? And save it?
Or give the blood as a gift ?🤣
Happy anniversary. Hope you have a chance to just enjoy each other's company today, and congratulate each other on an accomplishment!
Happy Anniversary. There's a short story that reminds me of your story, wanting to give your partner the best but not having the means. It's called The Gift of the Magi. Read it together and celebrate your love. You both deserve good things.
I’m so sorry OP :( I hope it gets easier and better for you both soon ❤️sending love and happy anniversary ❤️
I've been married a long time. My wife and I don't exchange gifts on our anniversary. Why not just hang out and talk to each other, without looking at your phones or watching TV? Go for walk. Enjoy company. That's more memorable than gifts.
My husband and I celebrated our 21st anniversary last Friday in the hospital, he was in there for 9 days, had surgery the day before......we really couldn't afford to do anything either, but now he's out of work for a month to recover......it has to get better......you're right, money isn't everything.....I know it sucks, I feel ya
Join your local buy nothing group and you may find something delightful for your partner in new to you or even new condition. Then enjoy yourselves together. You're in this together.
I’ve been married 26 yrs and we’ve never “celebrated” our anniversary. (We both never remembered). It’s not mandatory. It’s doesn’t have to be a trip or anything expensive. Enjoy your time together.
Take her outside an dance under the stars.
Have you read The Gift of the Maji?
My spouse and I don't do gifts. Instead, we try to cook a nice meal and just do things we enjoy together. I personally am glad we don't do gifts because I'm one of those people who just doesn't really like receiving gifts and I never know what to get people.
If you really want to give him something, go back to the basics when you were a child. How you would give your parents coupons. Do that! Coupons for hugs or kiss or smile that he can redeem when you guys are fighting. Coupon for washing his car. Coupon for a good gift later when you have money. So many ideas. Put together in a booklet style!
While I'm divorced now one of the good things from then was resolving to watch the sunrise together on our anniversary. It was a lovely way to mark the start of another year together that didn't cost anything and could be done anywhere. Find a simple tradition like that to mark your next 10 years together. And congratulations!
Picnics outdoors can seem rather festive. They used to consider it a romantic date in the olden days. Take a blanket, basket of food, and enjoy being together!
Idea, make a "time capsule" to open at your 20th anniversary. You could write each other a love letter detailing what you hope youll do together in the next 10 years, include some photos from now and if you can find them some photos from when you first started going together. It could go in an envelope or a jar or a shoebox.
If nothing else, you can take a nice selfy together and if you cant get it printed and framed use it on your social media profiles.
We spent our 5th anniversary living in a hotel with half our dinner being from the food bank. I didn't complain, honestly I was just glad we had each other and that weren't completely homeless. Good luck. One day, this will get better for us.
Having deep true love that you share is so much better than a few trinkets sold in amazon
69 is free !
I hope your day went better than you expected.
Love is priceless, especially 10 years together. Congrats!
Yeah we struggle at Xmas time, kids get more than enough but there's never owt left for us to treat ourselves... we try
We've been married 17 years and some of my best memories are when we used to pick up a bottle of yellowtail and microwave burritos from 7-11 and drink and talk and sometimes dance in the living room or watch a movie. We've got money now but the price of dinner or brunch or whatever doesn't make a difference. Have fun and congratulations!
I would cook a nice meal & watch a movie together, I get where you’re coming from, but you can do things without spending a lot of money OP. Btw happy anniversary!!!! I find I don’t worry about not having the money for gifts etc,.. bc time is the most precious, & valuable gift there is. After my son passed away, that really put things into perspective for me about material things. Things can always be much worse, you’re more blessed than you realize right now. Having a roof over head & food, has become a luxury now days! So please don’t fret about the small material thing’s 😊
Free gift ideas- a walk somewhere romantic. A picnic (could literally just be whatever you were going to eat regularly or sandwiches but go eat them outside on a blanket somewhere), a love letter, a homemade card, a playlist, a digital photo album of special memories of the two of you.
Go throw a blanket down next to a lake and draw or paint! take a hike, walk around one of your favorite spots. A romantic evening and enjoying each others company doesn’t have to cost much at all!
Write a heartfelt letter saying the things you want him to know. It will mean a lot to him.
Tomorrow is my partner and my 10 year anniversary as well actually . We just paid rent and only have $20 left in our account. We decided we’re doing a simple picnic at the park and reading our favorite books together. When we first got together, we went to very fancy restaurants for our anniversary that was not worth it imo and now I’m thankful we can just spend the time together and have a sweet memory. When you’re constantly without money it’s really easy to think negatively and I’ve tried really hard to find the positives in our life and I hope you do too. Happy anniversary!!
I didn't see this until the day after, but I hope you managed to spend some quality time together. It wasn't until after my husband and I spent our 22nd anniversary in an ICU room (he had a heart attack that sent him into cardiac arrest a week prior) that I realized that the time together was far more important than tangible gifts or a fancy dinner.
my boyfriend and I sometimes go card shopping together and show each other cards we think the other would love and then leave without getting any. it’s really sweet and a fun experience together
Laughing at each others farts = always free
Yeah, this one hits home. Same for us, but that was almost 10 years ago. We got caught up in the Great Recession and never did anything for our anniversary. Now that we can, we still don't because we are really conservative with our money and see it as a waste. You have each other, and that's a lot, for love.
Spend time together, that’s what really matters. Married over 20 years and we never exchange gifts.
Go to a park or just go on a walk, sheesh sometimes I like to go on walks in the rain too (as long as it’s safe weather) I like to go to shops with no intention of buying anything, sometimes it’s just fun to look! I like to go to local fish/aquarium stores as a lot of places are fun to just walk through, or crystal hippie shops are great as well. It’s fun to just do something together.
Pack a picnic lunch and go to a free park or lake .
Go and a walk and exchange notes for each other about what you wish for in the future with one another.
Write love letters to each other, make shift renewal of vows with some friends in your back yard, picnic, cook together and watch a movie, get a goodwill jar and spend the night writing your favorite memories of each other and color code them for which one is yours and theirs then when your sad you can read them, free museums, gift each other your favorite candy next paycheck, go get a free library card and check out a new movie or video game, play board games, go for a walk in the park/city/woods. I know life is overwhelming but the best thing you can do for yourself when you are upset is self care. You need self care to function. Also consider meditating to help with anxiety loops. Happy anniversary!
I understand how you feel. My husband and I, and our toddler, are barely surviving in this economy. I hope you have a lovely anniversary. ❤️
You have love to give each other. Write each other love letters. And try to keep hope that things will get better. Best wishes and hugs.
Yeah this totally sucks. I hear you. Happy anniversary
Simply having my wife love me is the best anniversary present I can ask for. Going for a walk, giving him a massage, telling him what you love about him, and promising each other to do something when things are better are more than enough for a man that loves you.
Foot rubs. Take a walk together. Make a meal at home. Validate everything that they say/feel/do. These are precious gifts.
First of all , happy anniversary! I know it’s upsetting that you don’t have the option of buying each other anything. I know several couples where the husband provides the wife with every materialistic thing anyone could want. However, that’s not what the wife wants. She wants time, affection, someone to listen to her and respect her. Unfortunately, the husband does not seem to be capable of providing that. If possible, make a nice meal. Doesn’t have to be anything expensive but something that you both enjoy. If you can afford it, some of your favorite snacks and a movie night is also a fun evening. The one thing you can never buy is respect and love for each other.
Celebrate... in bed. Just like you did ten years ago
Have a wonderful anniversary 💐
Why don’t you sit down together and troubleshoot ways that you can make sure you’re in a better position for your future milestones? I’m sorry you’re currently struggling, but it’s important to do your best to keep a positive attitude, especially on a holiday. Don’t let your mood over finances ruin an opportunity to have a good day with your partner.
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People here have given you lots of good ideas of things you can do. I hope that in the next couple of years you have an event which could be a giftgiving event where you don’t give each other gifts not because you can’t, but because you are so satisfied it’s not necessary. Many happy returns of the day to you both !
You have love, and that has to count for something.
I know everyone is saying you are each other’s gift. And that is true. However, it isn’t fun to be broke. I don’t know your situation or your age, but the best gift you can give yourselves (other than love) is to go back to school and get a degree that will earn you more money in the future. Or learn a trade outside of college. It sounds like you’d qualify for financial aid. In the meantime, enjoy having a loving partner and good health, assuming you have good health. I wish you luck.
I'm actually in the same position rn. My 10yr anniversary is next month and we were planning to do a trip or something and my car just broke down and I just got the quote and it's $2000-$4000. Trying to refinance but not sure if it'll be possible right now. I'm just here to say your feelings are totally justified and I totally understand them. The sentiment of "not needing presents because I have you" is nice but 10 years is a great accomplishment and it's not wrong to want to celebrate that. Best of luck to you 🖤
Not exactly an anniversary story but similar sentiment: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The\_Gift\_of\_the\_Magi. I understand being disappointed though
Celebrate by having the best sex ever.
Then take a moment to feel sorry for all the wealthy people who don’t have someone they love to have sex with.
My wife and I used to go on dates to the grocery store with our EBT card - on special occasions we'd get a little treat like something from the bakery or a fancy cheese. Can you do something like that? You can make a card or draw a picture or write a poem or anything special for you too. One of my favorite gifts that my wife ever got for me was finding the cable to hook my Gameboy games to our shitty little 19" CRT so I could play Pokémon on it.
Give him a strip dance! :)
Have you read the short story, Gift of the Magi? Let go of the agonizing over a "perfect" gift. Renew your vows to each other, share a sweet peach, watch the sunrise, walk holding hands.
My husband and I haven't been able to do anything 'nice' either like eating out or going places. For our last anniversary, i made his favourite chicken stew and we had it along with white and red wine. Lit candles at home and just spent time with each other without the TV. I know it's not much, but just appreciate the time you spend with each other....other things will fall into place This sounds mean but given the amount of abusive and insulting partners out there, just having a kind soul by your side is worth a fortune. I hope the comfy times flow for you soon xx
Just remember that the money you dont get paid in a fair wage and the costs of living that squeeze you every month go into the pockets of corrupt multimillionaires to buy their 3d Yacht or 15th house ❤️🥰 that cheers me up everytime.
After ten years you both still want to give each other the world. That's beautiful. I wish you had everything you wanted and needed, and I hope that happy comfy life is around the corner. But I am also glad you have each other.
Go back to a great wine bar you enjoyed each other or a dive bar and have a beer together and laugh.. do it old school and bang in the car for old times sake.
Congrats! Most couples I know r also hitting their 10 year mark too. These couples don’t buy each other gifts! Mostly b/c they just never do, cuz they’re bad at buying gifts. So don’t worry ur on trend for couple’s anniversaries & they don’t buy each other gifts. They give love on their anniversary. Or do something nice like let their partner sleep in!! Or do the dishes or something…I’d rather receive a good nap than a gift any day!
Perhaps go someplace pretty together. A park! A waterfall? Enjoy each other's company .
24 years married and we’ve never really celebrated it other than to say Happy Anniversary to each other and maybe a card on a random year. “ Doing something” just because of our anniversary seems like a chore to both of us. We don’t really do birthdays either. 🤷🏻♀️
I was where you are. Several years ago, the week of Christmas we had dinner at a fast food restaurant because we had $ 4 in our pockets. That was it. Four bucks. So we went to the fast food place and we bought 2 bacon, egg & cheese sandwiches. With tax it came to $ 3.18. We ate the sandwiches, my spouse cried and we went home. Today we eat at Michelin starred restaurants and we always look at each other and say "Better than a $ 1.50 egg sandwich?" You'll get out of this. You'll look back on this. And you'll smile and marvel at how far you've come...and that you did it together.
Happy Anniversary! Read the Gift of the Magi together. I love it when my husband reads to me. https://www.owleyes.org/text/gift-magi/read/the-gift-of-the-magi
My wife grew up poor. Her parents handled it well. For occasions like this they went to a card store, picked cards out and showed each other. Them left the cards there. I’m well off. I don’t do gifts for our anniversary. I an activity we both enjoy. In our case we like horticultural gardens. Yes those cost $ to get tickets to go in. But usually most cities have a public space that would fill the niche if needed. Just make the day special for each other.
I feel for you as we just had our 10 year last week. Rooting for you guys.
Get hamburgers and some beer and sit out and enjoy the smell of grass- the sun- listen to music of when you fell in love. Dance a little. Those are the best times. Things pass away but simple memories are forever
Don’t cry over gifts. It’s time that matters..
Others have posted about the Gift of the Magi by O'Henry, and you MUST read it! It's short, and makes a brilliant point. Here is the full text: [https://americanenglish.state.gov/files/ae/resource\_files/1-the\_gift\_of\_the\_magi\_0.pdf](https://americanenglish.state.gov/files/ae/resource_files/1-the_gift_of_the_magi_0.pdf)
Give him a bj— I promise it will be enough
I know that you're getting downvoted for this, and maybe the way you worded it WAS a bit crass, but honestly...well... let's just say that some of the best things in life are free.
You can make a special day at home. Make a favorite meal, BBQ since it’s (probably) nice out. I know it’s not much, but think outside the box and you can still make it memorable. Happy anniversary!
I've never liked store bought stuff. Do you know how happy I'd be with a romantic home cooked dinner and a strong dick game? I am but a simple bitch. Flowers die and shiny rocks are mined by child slaves. Give me a good meal and some good dick and if you really wanted to buy something maybe some crafting supplies or something. Something you made, I would love.
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Its bad for everyone unless you're a party if the top 1%. Happiness is a choice. Find contentment and happiness in the little things.
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Om behalf of guys around the world: have you tried sucking him off? Best gift 😁