allmyheart.jpgThe origins of Valentine's day are many and varied-- ranging from as many as 9 different early priests martyred by the Catholic Church for performing secret marriages and other infraction; to Christians wishing to cover up pagan fertility rites and spring celebrations. The common thread seems to us, to be love.

Everyone you care for deserves a valentine! And while you could spend unlimited amounts of money, you can also remember everyone thoughtfully on a budget. Here then, are our best suggestions for the most thoughtful bang.

1. Your primary love relationship should get the biggest "show." Sometimes it's charming to match it on a smaller scale, but ONLY for your daughters-- in their preferred color scheme, of course. Your mother, grandmother, sister should get something different from your primary love. After all, you wouldn't get them all the very same piece of jewelry, would you?

2. Show up during the workday YOURSELF with bouquet in hand and his/her favorite coffee drink. Don't interrupt others working, but do say something appreciative to your loved one. Discretion with Public Displays of Affection should be considered. This one requires advance planning if you have something specific in mind for your bouquet.

3. Plan several small surprises during the week proceding Valentine's day. These could be handwritten cards & notes tucked into places you know your loved one will find, or poetry you find meaningful. Make sure you have read the entire poem first if using someone else's work.

4.  If you don't already, take care of dinner at least once the previous week-- and I don't mean go out. Plan the menu according to what you know you can prepare, including the kids. It could be as simple as sandwiches and salad, or as elaborate as you have a trusted recipe for.

5. If you don't already arrange for these things, take care of any or all:

     * getting the car serviced.

     * getting the kids to daycare or school.

     * take out the rubbish (unless that's the kids' assigned chore)

     * clean up after the cat or dog (only if that's not a chore assigned to the kids).

     * the one chore or errand your loved one usually does, but you KNOW they really don't like to.

 Remember, it's about showing your loved one that you pay attention, and are doing what you can to support them and your family unit. And remember, Valentine's day may only come once a year, but can be practiced on any and every day.

Keep blooming, everybody