Valentine’s Day doesn’t typically come top-of-mind as a traditional holiday, probably because it comes close on the heels of the festivities of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Regardless, this day is a fun way to celebrate and appreciate the ones we love. But you don’t have to wait for Valentine’s Day to celebrate romance! Here are some fun ideas to incorporate into your heart day year after year.
- Create homemade Valentine’s cards. Give Hallmark a break and make your own cards. Simple or elaborate, your choice – you probably already have supplies on hand, like photos, paint, and mementos. Have your kids help, even if they can only add a few stray crayon marks on the card. Give your cards to friends, family, neighbors, and those special people who brighten your day (i.e. teachers, librarians, cashiers, postal service workers, etc.) A simple note can really brighten someone’s day. Bonus points if your two-year old hand-delivers these notes!
- Watch a romantic movie. Watch some lovey-dovey movies leading up to the big day to put you in the loving spirit. Some favorites of mine include A Walk to Remember, The Notebook, The Princess Bride, and P.S. I Love You. For kids, Frozen and Beauty and the Beast are our favorites. My husband would also add Die Hard to this list!
READ: 2023 Valentine’s Day Date Ideas in South Central PA
- Cook a special meal. Some people like to make a date night out of Valentine’s Day, but not for those of us with young children, or those still hesitant to be out in a post-COVID world. Cook something fancy like filet mignon, or try a new recipe. Set the scene with a tablecloth and candles, and enjoy some nice wine, followed by a fun dessert, either homemade or store bought; make it feel like you’re dining out, all while staying in and wearing sweatpants. Make it even more special by using your fine china and glassware for the occasion, and play some romantic music to set the mood – jazz anyone?
- Decorate your home. Add a splash of pink and red throughout the interior and exterior of your home. Make a fun wreath for your front door simply by adding red ribbon to an existing wreath, and now you’re ready for Valentine’s Day! Add a garland of red ribbon in your kitchen or over your mantle. Twinkle lights indoors are still pretty and festive. Add some brass candlesticks and colored candles throughout your space. Make it cozy and cute.
- Read a romance novel. No need to get into Fifty Shades territory here, but a fun chick-lit novel will help set the mood. Some ideas include: the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon, Chocolat by Joanne Harris, Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks, and Gone With The Wind by Margaret Mitchell. A non-fiction option to try is The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts by Gary Chapman – very interesting to learn more about yourself and your partner. And for kids, we love reading Happy Valentine’s Day, Mouse and I Love You Like No Otter.
- Exercise. Nothing crazy here but try getting outdoors for a walk if the weather is nice or watch a yoga video indoors. Take care of your heart and your body this Valentine’s Day. Show yourself some love and move your body, guaranteed to make you feel good.
Do you have any fun traditions to celebrate Valentine’s Day?
