Let’s see a show of hands. How many people out there are rolling their eyes and groaning at the thought of all the money they feel like they have to spend on Valentine’s Day?
I know, I know. We all try to be humble (at least some of us) and say that we don’t expect anyone to get us anything, but human nature being what it is ,we are inevitably disappointed (at least a smidgen) when others take that seriously. There are many people out there who think the more money they spend on someone the more it shows that they love them.
Now, I’m not saying I’d turn down a big diamond ring or throw out a bouquet of roses, but rather I don’t think this is what love is supposed to be about. Love should be about finding the time to spend with that special someone in your life even if you feel like there are not enough minutes in your day to accomplish this. Love should be about stopping and truly listening to the other person when they talk or going out of your way to do something for the other person that you know they would appreciate. Making someone feel special and appreciated can bring more joy than a really expensive meal or fancy jewelry.
This year for Valentine’s Day, with the economy the way it is, I thought everyone might appreciate some money-saving ideas for that special day.
Have a picnic in your living room. Throw a soft blanket on the floor, pack a basket with finger foods like fruit and whipped cream, or strawberries and chocolate with a bottle of wine. Light a fire if you have a fireplace or if not then light candles all around and boom…instant romance.
Make a key to your heart. Go to your local hardware store and buy a red or pink key, put it on a heart shaped key chain and present it to your loved one with a note or card telling them they have the key to your heart.
Decorate your driveway. Buy some sidewalk chalk from a craft store and decorate your loved one’s driveway or sidewalk with hearts or just write “Happy Valentine’s Day…Love, (insert name here).”
Post your love. Write a bunch of romantic messages (such as how great you think your honey is or how beautiful they are) on Post-it notes and put them all around where your loved one can find them.
Love notes or cards. Buy a package of inexpensive cards or note paper and write little love messages on them and then proceed to hide them around the house. This is a gift that keeps giving for weeks or even months as they continue to find them.
These are just a few inexpensive ideas to use for Valentine’s Day. And in the words of Frank Sinatra, from the song “All the Way” -
“Who knows where the road will lead us
Only a fool would say,
But if you let me love you
I’m sure to love you all the way.”
Jennifer Foraker is the ombudsman coordinator for the Area Agency on Aging.
