Romance on a Budget

Valentine's Day is around the corner and men and women around the country are breaking into a cold sweat because they've bought into the myth that romance equals money.  They are wrong.
When I think about the most romantic things that I have experienced, I don't think about a trip to some distant place or the most expensive champagne.  It's the little things like holding hands, sharing stories of our life together, and laughter about fun things we have experienced.
Sure, I sell gifts and you can find them for any budget.  But when you want to show love -- without running up your credit card bill -- I can help you there, too.  Following is a list of ideas to share with your Sweetie and show him or her how much you care.  These ideas are for both men and women and fit every budget -- even if you don't have one.
Love Notes -- Leave love notes for your Sweetheart to find or stick one on the bathroom mirror every morning.
Pampering - Brush her hair.  Scratch his back.
Wildlife - Watch the birds and squirrels feeding at the birdfeeder in your back yard or feed them at a park.
Games - Turn off the TV and play cards or board games together.  Or put a jig-saw puzzle together.
Cooking - Find a recipe that the two of you can make and share together.  Hint: Keep it easy but delicious.
Photos - Have a friend take photos of the two of you together.  When was the last time that you did this? What are you waiting for?
Stroll - Leave the TV, phone and computer at home and go for a walk together.
Slow Dance - Turn on some music and dance to the songs you fell in love listening to.
Star Gaze - Drive out to the country or somewhere that is dark and look at the stars.
Warm Hearts - Snuggle by a fire in the fireplace or a campfire
Connect - Hug, Hold Hands, Put your arm around your Sweetheart and give him/her a squeeze
Create Love Money - Write your Sweetie a check for One Million Kisses.  Or make a coupon book filled with promises of treats for him or her.
Play - Go to a park and play on the swings.
Picnic - Get take out food or make a picnic lunch and relax as you enjoy the food and each other.  Who said that a picnic had to occur outdoors?  How about a picnic in your bedroom?  Set the scene.  Cover the bed with a red and white gingham cloth tablecloth.  Setting out scented candles on the dressers and around the bed smells romantic.
Watch a Movie - Pop some popcorn, dig out your favorite beverage, and snuggle together on the sofa as you watch your favorite movie together.
Yes, an occasional expensive dinner is appreciated, it is the day- to day affection that builds romance and love.  Yes, Love can be cheap while creating lasting memories.