Noted Occasions: January 2009

Hundreds of years ago in England, many children dressed up as adults on Valentine's Day and went caroling from home to home. One verse they sang was:

Good morning to you, valentine; Curl your locks as I do mine ---

Two before and three behind. Good morning to you, valentine.

My, how traditions change over the years. Valentine's Day or Saint Valentine's Day is a holiday celebrated on February 14. In the West, it is the traditional day on which lovers express their love for each other by sending Valentine's cards, presenting flowers, and sharing scrumptious chocolates and candies. The holiday is named after two among the numerous Early Christian martyrs named Valentine. The day became associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished. And today, that love still marks the meaning of February 14th to all.

In fact, according to the US Census Bureau, 180,000,000 Valentine's Day cards are exchanged annually, making Valentines Day one of the most popular holidays of the year. Adding to the fun, a huge proportion of those cards sent are purchased within 6 days of Valentine's Day- making this holiday a procrastinators delight!

THE TOP WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE LOVE ON VALENTINES DAY

(according to the US Census Bureau)

1) 65% of all households exchange Valentine's Day Cards

2) 44% of us have a romantic kids free "date night"

3) 38% of Americans exchange candies and chocolates...yummy!

4) 32% of lovers will receive flowers for Valentine's Day!

Sounds kinda hard to be creative, eh? Well, read on....

VALENTINE'S DAY SURVIVAL GUIDE

TRY TO PLAN AHEAD

So, we know that this is the holiday for the procrastinator- which means you most certainly can wait 'til the morning of the 14th to find a gift that will "work." But with just a bit of advance planning, you can save yourself a lot of stress and ensure a fun and romantic Valentine's Day--one where you won't be stuck without a reservation or paying too much for a rush delivery of flowers. Book early at your favorite romantic restaurant, or take some time to find a more personal gift maybe something memorable and engraved with your lover's initials or a special message. It doesn't have to be about how much you spend, either: Putting a little time in can make a gift that is far more personal and meaningful than your basic flowers, roses, candy, and even jewelry. it is the thought that counts, so never discredit a romantic dinner at home prepared with love and romance in mind. Try checking out some of these great sites for perfectly romantic Valentine's Day menus (with recipes) and get ready for hearts to fly!

IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT THE MONEY, HONEY!

With consumers spending roughly $30 Million dollars a year on Valentine's day alone each year, it's hard not to get caught up in the frenzy of making a splash with expensive trinkets. DONT FEEL PRESSURED! The holiday is meant to celebrate LOVE not the perpetuation of the obsession with "stuff." Take some time and really think about what your love means to you, the beginnings of your relationship and the life you're spending together. Sometimes it's as easy as a framed picture from your early years- maybe a piece of memorabilia from your wedding or first date? One of my all time favorite gifts was a card from my husband, in which he wrote a beautiful note about our very first date. Brought back memories, made me laugh and made my heart swell all at the same time!

LAST MINUTE LARRY & LINDA
Fortunately for procrastinators, the old stand-bys--flowers, candy, or at the very least a card--are all available until almost the very last minute. Those don't have to be your only options, however; you can pull out a successful Valentine's Day with just a bit more effort in the home stretch. Although the restaurants may be booked, and you might not have the time or energy to cook, you can pull together a romantic night at home just by ordering in your favorite takeout, lighting some candles and putting on some music. Afterwards, watch a romantic movie. For a card, skip all the canned, commercial messages and buy a personalized card; it doesn't take too much time to write your own personal message inside, and it will mean far more. For inspiration, check out some of these great love quotes and you're half way there!

CARD AND GIFT IDEAS
Last but not least, try some of these great finds created by lovers everywhere for the holiday!