Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Inexpensive Valentine Ideas



This year’s Valentine’s Day reminds me of another similar one several years ago. Nature provided sleeting rain for the occasion, slowing rush hour traffic to a crawl. As I waited for my light, I was able to observe heavy traffic at the local Walgreens and florist where people hurried through the cold rain carrying balloons, roses, and bags containing candy and red or pink plush animals.

On the other side of the street was an elderly woman with a walker. Her equally elderly spouse held an umbrella over her as she walked. Icicles hung from his beard. There was no question which was the greater gift. An unselfish sacrifice or a red stuffed animal from the local drug store. With that in mind, maybe this could be a more personal V-day.

1.       You can make your own card or love letter.
2.       Write a poem or song.
3.       Make a collage from tickets, photos of things you’ve done together.
4.       Put together a scrapbook.
5.       Send a smile box e-card.
6.       Make heart shaped cookies, pancakes, or anything else you can press in a heart shape mold.
7.       Is your Valentine far away? Create a special box filled with dozen of messages, candy or other treats that can be read one at a time.
8.       Recreate a romantic dinner at home with candle light. It will be cheaper and easier than heading out to a crowded restaurant.
9.       Make it personal. Get her a book she’s been talking about or a model of the ‘57 Chevy he’s always wanted.  
10.   Recreate your first date.
11.   Make it a romantic movie night at home with plenty of snacks and tissues. If you can’t think of any movies, check out this link
12.   Reuse the same Valentine’s card every year and pen in different messages. Before you think ultimate cheapskate, keep in mind it reminds you of how your love has grown and changed with the years.
13.   Is your sweetie a gardener? Instead of roses, a live plant or seeds would be more welcome, or maybe a certificate for a rose bush since they aren’t in stores in most areas.
14.   Plan a fondue party at home.
15.   Do something totally different. It could be anything from indoor rock climbing to taking a cooking class together. You may not be able to schedule it on the day so a certificate can serve too.

Don’t be shy about your plans being on a day other than Valentine’s either. Business and restaurants raise the prices on roses, chocolates and a romantic night out. If you can wait until the next day after or even before to go out, you’ll experience less crowds and expense.

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