A Not So Top 10: Ideas for Valentine’s Day

Well it is the day before Valentine’s day and if you haven’t found the perfect gift for that special someone you may be panicking. Remember that it doesn’t have to be expensive to be a creative and memorable day. My favorite Valentine’s Days have been the times my hubby has stepped out of the box. Two of my favorites were a Koala from Build-A-Bear and flowers he got on campus from the chemistry club. As a fund raisers they were selling carnation in beakers. Here are a few ideas to get you started and help you avoid the last minute trap of wilted flowers and a squished box of chocolates. The ideas are listed in a no particular order

1. Make a special breakfast. It may be as simple as toast and coffee. If you are adventuresome you might try making a French Breakfast.
2. Make a coupon book for your sweetie. Include things like a free back rub, a night out, cook dinner, clean the house, etc.
3. Plan a special night in: fix or pick up dinner and select a movie.
4. Picnic in the park.
5. OK, this one that needs to be started before Valentine’s day. You will need a bag of Hershey’s Kisses and one of Hershey’s Hugs. Hid them through out the house. Be sure to hid them in places your sweetie can find. Oh, avoid hiding them in places that might get hot like above the stove. Leave a note on somewhere like on your special some ones pillow or the bathroom mirror. Be sure to attach a hug and a kiss to the note. Include instructions to about finding the hidden candies. The reward for finding them is a hug or kiss per candy found. Be prepared for this one to last for weeks.
6. Show up at your special someones work with their favorite snack or lunch. This is always a nice surprise.
7. A walk along the beach.
8. Turn the your bathroom/bedroom into a spa for your special someone. OK, guys this is going to take a little planning. If you have kids make arrangements for someone to care for them, keep them in another room or send them to bed early. Get some chic flicks or reading that your wife likes and special food be sure to include chocolate. Make sure the bedroom/bathroom is clean. You will need candles, bubble bath and relaxing music. Light the candles & run a bath. Be sure that the bed is made. Turn the back covers and leave a chocolate or nice cookie on the pillow just like in the fancy hotels. Then allow your wife some time just to chill out uninterrupted.
9. Plan a theme night. Decorate the house or one room to fit the theme like Mexico, Disney, or sleep over. Plan movies and food that fits the theme.
10. Pack a special lunch for your Valentine. Make a note using Message heart candies. Be sure to include at least one note and 2 or 3 special food items.

For more date ideas see Top 10: Date Night Ideas.