Gulf Coast Family

Valentine’s Day has always been a special holiday for us; but there is definitely a trend toward buying gifts rather than demonstrating love. The folks at the mall especially seem to have decided to emblazon everything from boxer shorts to stuff ed animals with little red hearts, but that doesn’t mean they make great Valentine’s Day gifts. A good Valentine’s gift, one that counts, will be a thoughtful present!

“You have to walk carefully in the beginning of love; the running across fields into your lover's arms can only come later when you're sure they won't laugh if you trip” —Jonathan Carroll

The Valentine’s Day gift you choose for your loved one and how you decide to spend the day says a lot about your relationship. So give something that has real meaning to you. Gifts from the heart don’t have to be expensive, and luckily, Valentine’s Day falls on the weekend this year. This means you can plan a full day of romantic fun. Since the traditional gifts of flowers or chocolates don’t last forever, here are ten creative ways to express your love.

• Create your own Valentine’s Day card. Compose a poem or an expression of love that expresses your personality.
• The gift of togetherness is precious, given today’s busy lifestyles, so try taking a romantic long drive along the coast line and then have a candlelit dinner.
• Create a scrapbook filled with favorite photographs, love letters, keepsakes from special occasions, and cherished mementos.
• Prepare a cookie recipe in the shape of heart and we are sure your sweetheart will love it.
• Make a CD of your favorite songs as a couple including love songs that you both enjoy listening to. Buy some romantic CDs, classic videos or DVDs and wrap them all together with red ribbon.
• Give silk or glass flowers which will last a lifetime.
• For the sweetheart with a sweet tooth, make a decadent dessert such as a chocolate fondue with melted chocolate mixed with a touch of heavy cream, and serve it with fruit or cookies.
• Hold each other’s hands and go for a walk. A walk on the beach is a fabulous idea.
• Jewelry is always a favorite. For her try getting a heart-shaped locket and put a picture of yourself in it. Personalize the locket with your loved one’s initials so she’ll have something to wear that’s hers alone. Package it in a heart-shaped box or tied to fresh flowers. For your man, a good choice is the classic sterling silver ID bracelet or cuff links with his name or initials custom-engraved.
• Decorate the house for the special occasion. Get a baby sitter for the kids, prepare your loved one’s favorite dinner and serve it on a romantically set table and dine by candlelight on Valentine’s Day.