Love is in the air…
Okay, maybe not for everybody, right? Depending on who is taking a glance at this, it differs. Anyways, it’s February! YAY! And do you know what that means? It means that lovely holiday known as Valentine’s Day is coming around the corner on February 14th! Some might say it’s not really a big deal, but I personally find that day extra special. Just like Christmas and Thanksgiving, loved ones find ways to express their love for one another.
I recall several years in elementary school where my classes would have their “Valentine’s Day Exchange”. Each student would bring in Valentines for each student in their class and put them through the slot of a lovely decorated container, usually a cereal or shoe box scattered with hearts, stars or other pictures. Sometimes even the teacher was lucky enough to participate in such a fun day. All the students in the school would celebrate with mini parties before the school day was through with several choices of treats and drinks. Do you remember these days? Or are you experiencing them right now?
Of course the class valentines stopped after hitting middle school, but it still deter people from bringing in valentines for friends or favorite teachers. Then, after getting into my high school life, students barely brought any type of Valentine to school to handout. No, it was more like goodie bags, flowers, chocolates or even showing their love by buying someone lunch. The Student Council actually had a fundraising program every year just for Valentine’s Day. You could buy a plastic flower and flavored lollipop for a dollar to send to someone either with your name or anonymously. It always left a smile on my face to see someone’s day brightened because it showed someone really cared for them.
Certainly everybody has their own ways to share love on this day. Kids, teens and adults all have unique personalities being individuals. Each has their own idea of what they wish to give to somebody they adore. Sometimes it’s common goodies. Other times you figure a change might be in order and get something they’ve never had before. Either way, as a person, I’m always happy to receive something and give back when I can.
My question for you is: Do you know what to get for your special someone? If you’re having a hard time and feel your brain is about to burst from so much thinking, don’t worry. You can check out some things I’ve given and received over the years. Maybe it’ll help you brainstorm!
Chocolate/Candy – Chocolates are the very common treats given to someone else on Valentine’s. Most people enjoy the sweet goodies and are happy to receive them. However, if you don’t wish to give chocolate for a reason, there’s always an alternative by finding out a favorite food or candy. You can give them that instead. It’s that easy!
Card/Craft – If you’re strapped for cash, this is a way to have a gift handy. You can simply buy a card or make one. Write how you feel about the one you wish to give it to. It’ll be even more fun to make a pretty picture if you can’t express yourself with words. Remember, pictures are worth a 1,000 words and your special person will love how you took the time to create something just for them. This is definitely a great idea to make for parents, siblings, grandparents and any one else close to you.
Stuffed Animal – These are also another common Valentine’s gift. A teddy bear, bunny or other kind of stuffed toy can make anybody’s day. And it’s also bonus if you can find the cutest one possible to make someone smile and go “Awe”! (I have received such a stuffed animal and I couldn’t let the cuteness go!)
Toy – This is something parents often do when wishing to give something different. By finding out their child’s favorite toy, it’s easy to buy it for them and say “Happy Valentine’s Day!”. This also includes younger siblings if you got them. Or even another child close to you.
Food – Food, just like chocolate/candy is a GREAT idea! If you know their favorite food, make it or buy it for them! Do they enjoy Chinese food? Maybe ask the parents to order take-out for dinner or get the ingredients to make it yourself. Nothing says love like a happy and full belly.
Jewelry/Gift – Jewelry’s a big seller around this time of year. Especially for couples. Lots of girls love getting jewelry. So maybe buy a pretty ring, necklace or bracelet you know they’ll love and wear. If not jewelry just buy a simple gift of your choice. No matter what you get, the person you give it to will love it.
Do these ideas help? Sure hope they do. Just remember that Valentine’s Day is not the only day you should express to someone how much they mean to you. For it should be shown everyday of this great life you live. This day just allows you to cherish someone a bit extra.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you all!