Last year my husband and I didn’t have help on valentine’s day so we had to be creative in how we celebrated. When the kids were in bed, I went downstairs to see that he had already put together a paint night for us. I rarely go to the basement so I was completely oblivious to anything he was doing to prepare. I will admit: it was a long day and I was 8 months pregnant and ready to go to bed but the gesture was so thoughtful!
If you find yourself without someone to watch your children on Valentine’s Day don’t worry! You can still find meaningful ways to celebrate your love. It looks like we’ll be on our own again for Valentine’s day this year so I’ve been looking into some creative ideas for us.
Take Off Work and Do A Day Date
Who said dates have to be at night? If you have school-age kids or children that go to daycare during the day consider doing a day date. You can catch a movie, do lunch, or head to a local art gallery all before the kids leave school.
Indoor Picnic
Once the kids are all tucked in for the night, why not turn your living room into the ultimate cozy picnic spot? Indoor picnics are seriously the best – just throw down a comfy blanket, light up some candles, and voila, you’ve got the perfect setting to chow down together.
There’s something so sweet and down-to-earth about having your own indoor picnic. No need to worry about fancy reservations or getting a babysitter – it’s just you two, enjoying a relaxed meal at home. Plus, with no distractions, you can actually have a real conversation and soak in each other’s company.
Movie Night
Why not turn your regular movie night into a full-blown home theater experience? Pick out your favorite films and make it an event to remember. Take a little extra effort to transform your living room – put all those yummy snacks into cute little bowls, convert your side table into a mini concession stand, complete with a “Now Playing” sign and a list of movie options for the night. Whether you plan it together or spring it as a surprise, turning your movie night into a mini home theater adds a cute and romantic touch to your evening.
Cook Together
Get ready to tag team in the kitchen and whip up something special together! Choose a recipe that you both love or find something new. The point is to enjoy the process of cooking as a couple. When the food is done, ditch the usual routine and go for the full-on fancy dinner experience. Break out the good plates, set the scene with some cozy touches, and make it feel like you’re dining at a five-star restaurant. Don’t forget to throw in some appetizers and dessert to really make it a feast to remember.
Spa Night
Indulge in a bit of self-care with a spa night that’s all about pampering. If you’re up for a splurge, consider treating yourselves to the luxury of a traveling massage therapist who can bring the relaxation right to your doorstep. If that’s not in the budget, you can easily craft a soothing spa experience at home. Set the mood with soft candlelight, play some calming tunes, and explore various spa treatments that make you both feel pampered and rejuvenated.
Finding ways to make Valentine’s Day special without a babysitter can be a real challenge, but it’s all about getting creative, no matter how big or small the efforts. Dive into the day with personal touches, whether it’s a heartfelt gesture, a surprise that shows you’re thinking of each other, or a cozy activity at home. Remember, it’s not about going all out; it’s about making the day uniquely yours.
