It snuck up on me!

I can’t believe Valentine’s Day is tomorrow. You may be one of those people who has already planned an extravagant romantic day. You’ve bought the candles, the candy and are all prepared for the cute. How nice for you.

Or, if you’re like me, it just snuck up on you, too.

If it’s the latter I just want to encourage you not to panic and remember what Valentine’s day is all about … you and your boo.

People get so caught up in the trimmings they forget the point of it. You don’t have to spend loads of money to have a lovely day. You have gifts at your disposal just because you’re you.

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Give Time

Carve out an hour just to be with your special someone. It sounds silly, but when is the last time you truly devoted an hour to your sweetheart and devoted all of that time to just talk. Ask about their day, their year, their life and your relationship. Find out what’s going on in their head and heart. Make sure to make it clear how special they are, how much you love them and what you plan to work on to make your relationship even better. Keep any criticisms or problems mum for one day, for goodness’ sake.

Give Sweet Words

I’m a true believer in love notes. Now more than ever, a pen and paper make a profound impact when the whole world is texting. Write a love note to your boo and, if so inclined, seal that sucker with your juiciest red lipsticked kiss.

Give Good Food

Make it a special meal, if possible. Or, if the heart is willing but your hands and arms and legs threaten to give if you do one more thing… just make it more special than normal. Like if you only have just enough energy to handle a can opener, put that soup in a pretty bowl and put a candle on the table. Add a napkin. Set the place. Make special from not-special and promise something real special in the near future.Make it a special meal, if possible.

Or, if the heart is willing but your hands and arms and legs threaten to give if you do one more thing… just make it more special than normal. Like if you only have just enough energy to handle a can opener, put that soup in a pretty bowl and put a candle on the table. Add a napkin. Set the place. Make special from not-special and promise something real special in the near future.

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These are the tips I have for those of you who are unprepared for Valentine’s Day. For the rest of you, you know the score. Candy, travel, jewelry, baked goods –they all work. Just remember that even if you’ve got the plan-aheaditude to get things together don’t expect trinkets and fancy decoration to do all the work. Don’t just go through the motions. It’s not romance if there isn’t meaning behind that action. Happy Valentine’s Day!