On OUR day, one of the things we do is read our marriage vows, that are printed out, framed and hung on our bedroom wall, to be sure that we are keeping them and to encourage each other that we are being the wife/husband that we should be. Telling each other thanks for being a great spouse.

If we can we try and go out on a date, but due to the part of country we live in, we don’t feel driving through a blizzard to go out for the evening proves our love for each other. Also we each have health problems that can prevent us from going out. We do try to have a nice meal and spend quality time together.

Bake Valentine cut out cookies. I don’t make them at Christmas so that if I have the energy to make them on Valentines it is more special for him as they are one of his favorite cookies.

Flowers are nice in the middle of winter, but as the other poster noted, they don’t have to be roses. Buying flowers just a day or two ahead of the day, or at a place other than the florists keeps them cheaper than buying and having flowers delivered on the day. Have a nice vase that you can fill with flowers. Our vase is one that held one bouquet of roses for our wedding, so it has special memories also.

I made a quilted heart wall hanging several years ago that is hung for a month or so.

One year I printed out colored Valentines and taped them up all over the house for him to see, including one on the bathroom mirror that got left up for a long time.

Simple things that show you care, love and are thinking about him/her adds much to the day.

1. Give him a nag-free coupon. Valid for one day where you can’t nag about anything. No comments period. If you need to, don’t be in the house!

2. Clean your own d*mn car!! We hate doing it. I would wet myself in happiness if I got into her van and it was spotless!! If the oil light is on, do something about it!!Ok, I’ll settle for her telling me that the light is on…

3. Take the kids out of the house for a whole day. Take them someplace that doesn’t cost me money and they don’t bring any crap back from!

As for the whole sex thing, it’s just as cliche as roses and chocolates. Catch me off guard 2 days before! We like new and exciting as well. Take some pictures before hand. Put them in with my lunch (they don’t have to be x-rated).

Alternatives for #4:
Meet in the shower, bubble bath, or not

you get the idea. guys are easy.

And beware, be aware, consider ANYTHING that has calories. Yes, I love chocolate and have no diet but you DON’T have to make it harder.