Planning Ahead: Valentine's Day

The Christmas decorations are put away, the resolutions have been made, and 2012 is well under way.

So NOW what do we do? We do it all over again!

Believe it or not Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Now wait.. I’m not here to tell you to go right out and order those flowers or the surprised engagement ring or even the 30 pound box of chocolates.

But I am going to gently remind you that it is coming up and if you are planning or would like to start planning anything special for your significant other, now would be the time to do it. After all, it will be here before you know it and how wonderful it would be, not only on your checkbook, but on your nerves if you had that special day well planned ahead and not running around like a loose cannon trying to find that perfect gift and spending way too much!

In some ways, if you order, buy, or reserve ahead of time, you will get better deals.

There are hundreds of “Romantic Getaways” that are offering discounts on their rooms and suites along with a huge discount for their dinners for two.

Spa Retreats have specials offering wonderful massages for two in beautiful settings and some offer food and beverage afterwards.

The ideas are endless and there are so many to choose from depending on your budget.

You can also be creative with your time and money by spending a romantic night at home.

The main thing is that you are together and embracing your romance and love for one another.

I’ve compiled a small list of ideas to help give you motivation and inspiration to plan ahead. As I mentioned earlier, there are so many ideas and offers out there. You just need to look in your area and see what is available. Be sure to check your local newspapers as well. Your favorite restaurant may be offering a “Romantic Dinner for Two.”

Place “LOVE NOTES” all over the house with Heart-shaped Post it Notes
(found on Amazon.com) 3.99

Breakfast in Bed (Coffee/Tea, O.J., Toast, fruit & Yogurt) one long stemmed rose
$10.00

“I Love You” Card $5-8.00

Surprise Her With a Picnic Lunch :
(Cheese, crackers, fruit, croissants, grilled chicken, chocolate mousse, wine) $15-20.00

1 Dozen Long Stemmed Roses (Many Florists will have "early bird" deals)$49-60.00

Overnight “Getaway” and Dinner $150-? (Depending on where you stay)

Drive to the Beach to Watch the Sunset:
(Fruit, cheese and crackers, sparkling water) your favorite CD $10.00

Romantic Dinner at Home:
(Baked Salmon, steamed asparagus, salad, wild rice, wine and chocolate mousse for dessert) Lots of candles lit. Beautiful music for dancing. $15-25

Night at the Movies $20-30

Take a Walk Where You Haven’t Been Before $00

Rent a Limousine for 3 Hrs:
Bring your favorite munchies and drinks. The driver will take you anywhere you want to go. $130-$250

Bubble Bath for Two: (Light lots of candles, beautiful music, fresh strawberries, and sparkling water. You can also add essential oils for the bath water as well as fresh rose pedals. Check your local florist for the rose pedals. They throw away the outer pedals when preparing their roses. Ask them to save you a bag full) $5

Romantic Night on the Town:
(Dinner, Live show/concert) $200-?? Depending on dinner and show

Cuddle Up With a Good Movie at Home in Front of the Fire Place $00

Cuddle Up With a Good Movie at Home in Front of the Fire Place With Your Kids $priceless

Happy planning

Blessings,

~Lisa