photo credit: laRuth

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and, Ladies, you know what that means.  You don’t?  It means it’s time to get creative!

Dinner and a movie is fine.  Fine.  A little pricey, a little old school, a little humdrum.  Why not add some sparkle to your date night by stepping outside of your same-old date ideas?

Option 1:  Be a Star!  Creative Date Night

Alright, if you insist on going the dinner-out route, at the very least change up your routine.  Do you usually pull out your favorite jeans & throw on a nice top 30 minutes before it’s time to walk out the door?  Are you wearing comfortable shoes?  Ditch the uniform and go for glamour.  For this date, dig out a dress you love to wear but never do, or better yet, borrow one from your friend who has it all!  Borrow her shoes, too, if they fit.  If not, find yourself a sexy pair of heels, add some jewelry, and voila!  Don’t forget the lipstick.  Taking time to care for yourself before your date will put you in a wonderfully new frame of mind for the evening–one you’re both sure to enjoy.

photo credit: TinyTall

Option 2:  Take a Bath.  Spa-Like Date Night

Yes, you read that right.  First of all, you need to beg, borrow, or steal a good friend to watch your kids.  At her house.  Second, prepare a dinner you can bake–a favorite chicken dish or lasagne or whatever–just be able to pop it in the oven when the time comes.  Third:  Candles and scent and flowers and bubbles and romance!  If  you haven’t enjoyed a romantic bath with your spouse, this is your chance to surprise him like never before.  Take time to relax and enjoy one another’s company in the bubbly water.  When you’re ready to dry off, dinner will be ready, too!  Pop a bottle of bubbly to complete the date.

Option 3:  Get moving. Date Night and Workout in One!

If you live somewhere that’s not buried in 3 feet of snow right now, rent a tandem bike for an afternoon and explore the countryside together.  Stop for a picnic lunch, or find a quaint restaurant where you can find a little respite before continuing on.  If you can ride somewhere and rest near the water, even better.  The point is to get out of your usual habits and discover something new, about the countryside, and one another.