How to Spend Valentine's Day Without Spending Lots of Dough

Valentine’s Day…It’s a coming! How are you spending the holiday?

I have to say with our move and the recent death of my 14 year old dog, 2010 has been anything, but easy. Actually, it’s kicked me in the butt a few times. All the more reason to really take the opportunity to do something BIG for this heart holiday.

For you, big might mean a bouquet of flowers, a box of candy or dinner to a fancy restaurant. But for me this year, I think I’m going to work hard at celebrating the person I love the most…myself!

Valentine’s Gifts for Yourself

  1. Keep a journal. I’ve been reading Julia Cameron’s Finding Water: The Art of Perseverance (Artist’s Way). In it, she talks about weekly dates and morning journals. Both ideas have inspired my ideal Valentine’s day.
  2. Making a weekly date with moi. Whether you go for a walk or have lunch/coffee on your own, celebrate a special date with your favorite person…you. It’s a great way to reconnect with yourself. I did it a few days ago and found surprising peace by focusing on the moment and the meal in front of me, instead of external sources.
  3. Give to others. After you’ve done enough to fill your own tank, it’s wonderful if you can share the love with others. Do it with time or money. Donate to a favorite charity/organization or volunteer your time to help others. The rewards you get back will feel like a gift greater than the gift you gave.
  4. Show gratitude. Whether you’re in singledom or coupledom, I’m sure there are tons of people in your life that you couldn’t live without. Make V-day the day that you show your appreciation to them for the big and small things they do all year. If money is tight, a card or even a hug is enough to say, “Thank you!”

How about you? Any ideas for Valentine’s Day you’d like to share?


One Comment to “How to Spend Valentine's Day Without Spending Lots of Dough”

  1. I’m not big on Valentine’s day. At least not the traditional way people spend it with chocolates and flowers and fancy meals. I think it has gotten too commercialized. In my mind every day should be a day of love.

    I like your different point of view about spending v day for yourself. Especially your first two points really resonate with me. It made me think… what have I done for myself lately?

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