ALT-2 Valentines Day Celebrating on a Budget
Everyone knows there is a recession on but that is no excuse to cut romance out of your life. Not everyone can afford the flowers, cards, perfume and so forth that predominate the majority of celebrant’s lives. However, everyone can afford a smile, a loving word, a day without watching sports or soaps on the television. People today spend more time rushing around like headless chickens, concentrating on the unimportant trivia of the occasion, instead of thinking about what really matters, the other person’s feelings. Consequently the following suggestions may help put the emphasis where it really matters.
Sweet words are as intoxicating as sweet wine, when delivered with passion and integrity. A few lines of poetry slipped on a breakfast tray containing all the goodies your loved one adores but never has time to make or eat. This placed lovingly on your partner’s lap; poetry that could hint of a treasure trail of romance. Imagine the look of surprise and intrigue when you hint, in verse, of a long walk down memory lane, as you plan a day devoted to the one you love.
Photos of the two of you, displayed in a collage, begin your trail. A walk or drive into the countryside, regardless of the weather, with a lovingly prepared picnic, should bring happy memories flooding back. Sit by a river and feed the swans as the watery sun attempts to break through the clouds. Hug one another close as that cold wind tries to gain access beneath layers of woolly jumpers and as you pop that last piece of chocolate into an eager mouth.
On your return, a simple meal, prepared earlier, with candles and mood music should stimulate the jaded palette; remember to clear the table and promise faithfully to wash up. Then snuggling up together on the sofa, with eyes only for one another should prove your good intentions. For one evening forget the television, forget the computer, and put “your” record on, the one that means something to you both. Pull your partner to you and dance as though you were the only two people in the world.
Finally, a freshly drawn bath with bubbles and candles and, if the budget stretches, something bubbly in a glass and your romantic day is complete.
Obviously, if you can afford fresh flowers and champagne, fine! However, sparkling grape juice tastes just as good and you will be able to remember your romantic Valentine’s Day in the days to come.
