Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Plans

I'm not a spontaneous person. It's just not in my nature. But I have to say, this is a quality I really admire in people.

My husband is more spontaneous than I am. He'll suggest going out to dinner on a whim, or going on an overnight "escape." And I go with a mixed feeling of excitement and anxiety. But I'm so grateful that he pulls me along for the ride.

In fact, one of my favorite things to do is to go for a walk around our local pond. We live in New England, so during the winter, it can be a very cold walk. But we bundle up, get out those hot hand warmers and a Thermos of hot cocoa, and sit on a bench overlooking the pond. And we talk. We talk about the previous year, the year ahead, our kids, our extended families, plans we want to make. It can be so romantic to just have some quiet time in a peaceful, beautiful spot. It makes you realize that sometimes, you don't need to spend any money – or plan in advance -- to be good to each other. You just need to break away from the normal routine.

Being that today is Valentine's Day, I thought I'd encourage you to break away from your daily routine as well. Whether it's tonight or next month, it can be so rewarding to get that 1-on-1 time with your partner. I think the same is true for each child. I love planning "dates" with my sons, separately; even if that means hiring a sitter so my husband and I can both go.


We've just come up with a bunch of free – or, semi-free – ways to celebrate Valentine's Day (most can be done spontaneously). They're great ideas. Some you can do tonight (learn how to find a sitter, fast!) and others can be saved for later.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Sheila