Unless you have been living under a rock, or you have been asleep for a fairly long while, you are aware by now (we hope) that Valentine’s Day is this Friday. If you are on a limited budget…or if you don’t think that you can get reservations at your favorite restaurant in time, let me suggest something novel: stay in this Valentine’s Day.
Does your sweetheart love flowers? That’s easy. Most florists, even as busy as they are, have loose bouquets, wrapped in paper. Those are easy to pick up. If you go by the grocery store on the way home, you might be able to pick up some posies…but I would be careful. The stores may well be picked over for flowers and balloons, by late afternoon. Regardless, DO pick up a Valentine’s Day card. If nothing else, get the card. Show that you remembered.
What will you have for dinner? You can always grill steaks and bake potatoes, with salad on the side. You can order from one of your favorite restaurants and have one of the local delivery groups bring that to your home, or to your work. Just be prepared to warm the meal up when you get home. Or pick up a bucket of chicken, if you two love that. If you don’t want to do that? Make your own pizza at home. Get a bake-and-take one, or buy a box of Jiffy brand Pizza Crust Mix, and follow the directions. Put your favorite marinara sauce, cheeses, and toppings on the baked crust, and enjoy a pizza you make together. Have a nice beverage on hand, and toast one another. Dr. Pepper will do just fine, too. Whatever works for you.
As you are enjoying dinner, cue up your favorite romantic movie. Not sure what to watch together? That’s okay. Lifehack has a list of over 20 Most Romantic Valentine’s Films. Pick one of those or ones you saw on one of your first dates together. Cuddle up under a blanket, pop popcorn, build a fire in the fireplace, and enjoy.
Other ideas include: enjoying a spa night together in your bath, with candles, bubbles, bubbly, and coziness. Or make a coupon book for your sweetheart, with some very specific and romantic ideas. You can make the book yourself, with card stock and heart stickers. You will know what to say or suggest on the coupons. Strip Poker, anyone? Massage? Free Kiss? Well. You get the idea.
Hopefully, these ideas will help you, if you are planning to stay in and have Valentine’s Day together, instead of going out with everyone else. It is less expensive and can be more creative, as well.
At least you can turn off your phone, computers, and television. Turn on some music you both love, and let the evening progress naturally.
Happy Valentines Day, from me to you.