PeekabooNWA

On Valentine’s

Posted on 01. Feb, 2009 by admin in A Dad's View

Valentine’s Day. More stressful than Christmas and personally harder to plan. I want to be careful here; but, I just do not fully understand all of the propaganda around this holiday. For instance, when I think about loving my wife, I do not have a vision of a short, chubby, toddler with a blond curl, still wearing diapers flying around with pointy things trying to shoot me (aka cupid). (Now let me back up as to avoid any hate mail (mainly from my wife). I do appreciate observing a special day to celebrate the love we have for someone and do not want to take away from that; I am just saying…)

Growing up, I would look forward to Valentine’s Day. I remember the good old grade school days of throwing some construction paper on a shoe box, cutting a hole in the top of the lid, filling out the Transformer Valentine cards and then sitting back and watching the Be Mine’s fill the box. That was then – now, it is somewhat more of a challenge. However, let me say this, my wife is very easy to please and I do appreciate that; but, she is still a woman that anticipates and deserves her Valentine gift. So, as I brainstorm things to do this coming February 14th, I share with you some ideas that may help you score a big Thank You this month.

One idea that my wife has perfected; but is sure to be a hit with your wife is a special Memory Book. Collect pictures from throughout the year of you and her and the kids and place them in a photo book. You can add a special scripture or a comment that captures the significance of the photo. Let her know what last year meant to you and how much you look forward to what 2009 has in store for the two of you.

One creative idea sure to score some V-day points actually requires a trip to the automotive store. Purchase some Rain-X Anti Fog wipes and use them to write a special message to your wife on the bathroom mirror. When she finishes her morning shower, she will be flattered by your efforts on the otherwise fogged over mirror.

Another idea is a modified version of my wife’s Memory Book and that would be a Poster of Memories. You can get a nice piece of poster board or decorate a display board and paste memorabilia from your time together. Some ideas may be your first movie tickets, a love note that you kept, or whatever else you have saved throughout the months or years. Be sure to put a caption under each object to add a little personal touch.
A simple idea that I have used is to make a CD with her favorite songs. It is a throw back to the days of mix-tapes but a lot easier to do. Download music she enjoys or that has significant meaning to your relationship. Don’t forget to make a label to cover your CD. Your label can be a simple message to your special someone or that favorite picture of the two of you spending time together. To top it off, present the CD prior to a quiet dinner at home and play the CD while you dine on your attempt at a homemade gourmet meal.

This last idea is a creative way that involves the whole family while being a blessing to others. Have the kids make Valentines out of construction paper. After the cards are made, gather them and the family up and head to the local hospital or children’s shelter. Escort your kids as they deliver the cards they crafted to others that otherwise would not get to celebrate the day. This expression of love will make a lasting impression on the kids (and adults) that receive the handmade cards while creating a Valentine’s Day to remember for your young ones as well.

Disclaimer: I know these Valentine’s Day ideas are rather elementary and are not meant to replace the candy, roses and candlelight dinner; but, are meant to only complement the traditional things that I am sure she will be expecting. These suggestions should not in any way be attempted to be implemented as a stand-alone gesture of your love for your wife. While I believe it is true that love is patient and love is kind; if you make an error on this day – that patience and kindness cannot be guaranteed.