There are some great places in Fairfield County to go out for a nice Valentine’s Day dinner. There are great jewelry stores and flower shops where you can buy gifts. But what if you A) forgot to make a reservation and now it’s too late? Or B) can’t find a babysitter since they’re already all taken? Or C) Would rather just stay home to celebrate? Here are some ideas for you to try if you want to bring a little extra love into your home this Valentine’s Day with a stay at home date.
1. The at home date: Send the kids to bed early and meet your partner at your “date” at 9pm (remember when you didn’t eat dinner at 5?!). Put some effort into this date – it will all be worth it. Dress up, buy a small gift for one another, and sit at the table. Use the nice plates that you never use. Maybe even with a candle. Make dinner ahead of time so you can quickly heat it up for eating after the first round of drinks. Enjoy!
2. “Remember When” Date: This year Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday. A great day for a relaxing hike! Go with your partner to any of our great local parks (find some ideas here) and take a walk down memory lane. As you hike, focus your discussion on all of the memories that made you fall in love in the first place. This one might take a little forethought. Ask yourself, when I met him/her, what was my initial reaction? Where did we go on our first date? Would we go there now? When did s/he first meet my parents? What was our favorite thing to do before kids? What was your favorite part of our wedding? What did you like best about our first apartment/house? Where were you working when we met? Thoughts and questions like these are sure to bring up fun and loving memories and get the love flowing along the trail!
3. Game or Movie Night: The Wedding Singer? The Holiday? The Wedding Planner? Yes, please! Stack up on some of your favorite board games or queue up your Netflix account and settle in for a romantic night at home. Don’t forget the snacks and drinks!
4. Future Night: Make plans for another date in the near future where you will both experience something new and exciting. Skydiving? Paint and drink night? Ski weekend? Ballroom dance lesson? Or, sit down together and dream about your coming years together. Where will we be in 10 years? 30 years?
5. Family Valentine’s Day: If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. If a babysitter isn’t an option, invite the kids into the date. Maybe some heart shaped pancakes with chocolate chips for dessert? Write a letter to your kids explaining how much you love them and what makes them so special. Spend the day making valentines for one another. Share your letters and crafts over dinner.
What are your plans this Valentine’s Day? Will you be fighting the crowds to go out or possibly think about staying in?