My son recently asked to spend the day with his girlfriend on Valentine’s Day. I know what my son’s finances look like so I asked what he planned to do. His answer reminded me of the days when I was dating my husband. He was going to meet her at the public library and look at books that they were both interested in. He said the library has board games that they can play and a used book store in the basement where books are only a $1. He was going to see what books she liked and surprise her with one or two before they left for the local ice cream shop.

I thought his ideas were very sweet and it made me wonder what other romantic options I could come up for my own Valentine’s Day planning that didn’t cost a lot.

So, I came up with a list:

1. Write your special someone a letter expressing all of the reasons why you love them

2. Watch their favorite movie, maybe even in a pillow fort!

3. Go for a hike or bike ride and enjoy a picnic outside

4. Take a picnic to the local park

5. Visit a new park or an area of your town that you don’t usually visit

6. Sign up to walk shelter animals

7. Place post-it notes around the house with lovely sentiments for your loved one to find

8. Cook their favorite meal and don’t let them do the dishes!

9. Place little vases (or cups) of wildflowers (if they are blooming in your area) around the house

10. Massages are always a thoughtful, enjoyable treat

My son’s young, honest, heartfelt plans for his girlfriend made me think in another way about the romantic holiday. It would be so much easier to buy a gift and make a reservation. Why not put a little extra thought into the day?