New York - It's that time of year again - time to say something special to that special someone. But you probably haven't paid off your December holiday bills quite yet.... shaky economy, too much debt, rising food prices, tapped out consumer. We've all seen the headlines.
For most of us, it's not the year - or time of year - to spend more.
Over the years I've come to find it really is the thought that counts. Sure, I might like a 60 inch TV or a 40 gb iPod for Valentine's Day, but what would that really say anyway? I just don't think you need to give "big" to get the point across - especially on February 14.
And, while I like a bunch of roses as much as the next gal, maybe there's something really better? Something personal, something special, something handcrafted really says more - and may cost a lot less.
Five for the fourteenth
So here are five ideas that will convey a personal touch and save a bunch of money besides.
Downsized dinners
Huh? Show you love him or her by ordering smaller portions? That's not what I mean. There are ways to enjoy your favourite restaurant without dropping three figures on the check.
Do lunch, not dinner. You can save 25% to 50%, and there's something special about taking time out, away from kids if it applies, to have a nice leisurely lunch in place of the usual salad-on-the-go or the company cafeteria.
Share a meal. Like straws for the proverbial drive-in milkshake, sharing a fancy meal is quite practical and kind of fun. You'll save money - and really will reduce calories, too, if that's important.
Dessert only. If a large bill isn't for you, eat at home, clean the dishes, get the kids squared away - then go out for a bit of chocolate decadence at your favourite joint. You'll get plenty of Valentine's Day atmosphere and time for "sweet talk" without running up your average daily balance.
Make a card with their favourite art
Perhaps your significant other has a few favourite artists, and perhaps those artists have produced classic works of romance, nature scenes or flowers. Or, if you have no idea, put "Monet" or "Renoir" or "impressionist flowers" in your search engine.
You'll get a wide assortment of images, many of which you can copy and paste into a greeting card of your own design. Watch for copyrighted sites and "thumbnail" images with poor quality - 50 kb or better is usually best. Museum sites work well. It's fun and you'll see some great art as you do it.
Candlelight CD
OK, maybe CDs are old fashioned, but they still work around the house and in the car. If your love is in love with his or her digital music player, a "candlelight playlist" works, too.
Read a romantic book together
Form your own two-person book group to read and review a favourite old, or new, book. Now, what book? Conventional romance novels are a bit obvious - how about a work of adventure with strong romantic overtones?
Most wouldn't consider them romance novels, but the two Charles Frasier novels, "Cold Mountain" and especially "Thirteen Moons," contain strong overtones of long-term romance sure to bring you closer, lest you endure the yearning and pain of his deeply crafted protagonists.
Message on a bottle
You can easily send a romantic message to your love by buying a modestly priced bottle of wine with a sexy name. This will get the conversation going about what exactly might be in store for the evening.
Find the right bottle with the right message at your local wine store - it's fun. And don't forget the presentation - try a basket with a few chocolate goodies and that CD I just mentioned.
A new idea, a new spark, something you've never done before. You'll both feel better, and your credit cards will enjoy the break.
- Dow Jones