Romance On A Budget

One of the biggest misconceptions with today's holiday, Valentine's Day, is that you have to spend large amounts of money to show your love and appreciation for someone. Not true. Some of the biggest ways to say "I Love You" cost little to nothing at all. So if you find yourself scrambling to find that last minute display of affection and find your wallet a little light, here are some ideas to help you through.

1. Write a love letter. In this modern day of technology, most have forgotten the art of putting pen to paper. Spend some time putting your appreciation into a letter. Detail all the things that you find endearing in the other person. It doesn't have to be sappy, just as long as it comes from the heart.
2. Take a walk holding hands. In our busy daily lives, sometimes we forget to just slow down and enjoy each others company. Go for a walk in the neighborhood, park, mall, beach, or where ever you may like, and hold the hand of your loved one as you do. Its the intimacy that is the gift.
3. Leave little notes everywhere. Try leaving little bits of paper expressing your love all over the house. Write "I Love You" on the mirror in the bathroom. Put cut out hearts in obvious places.
4. Cuddle. Spend some quality time just holding each other. Not to be confused with sexual cuddling, but simply being there for the other person to enjoy.
5. Cook a favorite meal. You are going to eat anyway, so make it a special meal by making the other person's favorite dishes, or recreating the first meal together.
6. Create a video. Create a video message for the other person telling them why you love them. Make it something they will cherish. Burn it to a CD and create a special unique envelope to put it in.
7. Sing a song. Sing them their favorite love song. If you can't sing, lip sync.
8. Create a photo. Pick a romantic setting and arrange flowers or place a sign spelling both names with a heart. Take a photo and make it their background image, or print it out and frame it.
9. Go out for a cup of coffee. It does not take an expensive meal to go out, enjoy each other's company and simply talk and listen to each other.
10. Say "I Love You" every time you see him/her. Each time you are apart for more than a few moments, when you see each other again, say "I Love You". Try learning how to say it in many languages to make it even more fun.

I hope this helps some of you get some ideas for sharing your love with someone. And remember, love is always, not just Valentine's Day. Love to all.

Burly Bear Chris