LOVE actually is all around

It's coming... 

the holiday created by Hallmark to sell candy, flowers, and cards.

Or something like that they say.

PSSSHHH.

 While I agree that Valentine's Day can take on an over-the-top entity, 

I like the sentiment. 

My husband and I say I love you everyday... multiple times.

And we try to say "thank you" when one of us do something for the other.

But I like to take Valentine's Day as a chance to appreciate the people in my life.

Especially my hubby.

We have never spent a fortune on each other or the night out.

But we go on a special date night and get mushy-gushy with each other.

Here are some ideas for low-key everyday dates or Valentine's dates:

1. Drinks + an app or dessert
 Too often you go out for dinner and don't get a chance to enjoy the appetizers or desserts on the menu! Every once in awhile, switch it up and don't get an entree.

2. Bowling!
Shoe rentals, a couple games, maybe a few drinks... fun and doesn't break the bank.

3.  Coffee date and some exploration
Grab a coffee at a local cafe or Starbucks and take a walk or a drive. Literally anywhere. Nature walk, window shopping, or just looking at the sights. Use Valentine's Day to be a tourist in your own city!

4. Order take out and play a board game
Get the competition going with a friendly board/card game... or one that is not so friendly ;)

5. Movie time: Catch an afternoon matinee or rent something in your home.
Afternoon matinees are still cheaper than at night right? Go see a flick and relax! Or even have a day of snuggling with a movie marathon (or series binge) at home. Rent on-demand or with Redbox OR just check out Netflix.

6. Groupon
Don't have anything planned? Just check out Groupon in your area and go... get deals like a hotel room, dinner, drinks, or an activity for the two of you to do!

7. Brunch it up
Another opportunity to go out to eat on Valentine's Day that has the opportunity to be a little cheaper than the normal reservation and night on the town. Get a nice mimosa or bloody mary with breakfast and linger over brunch.

8.  Cook a fancy meal together
Cooking? Don't we already cook on the regular? Well we don't always cook together- we take turns. Or in the hustle and bustle, we tend to cook quicker or routine items. So plan together and cook something fancy.. drink a little wine... play some music... you get the idea... make your own romance.

Us? We are thinking of doing a combination of 3, 5, 7, and 8. 

Wake up and get get some brunch... wander around in the general area with a cup of coffee...  cook a fancy meal together with wine and some music... and end with a rented movie all snuggled on the couch. 

Happy Monday!

xo jess xo