Girl Chat - Valentine's Schmalentines

Back in college, I had a couple of friends who would throw an annual Valentines Schmalentines party. Since I primarily dated my husband for the majority of my college experience, I technically had a valentine when February 14th rolled around. However, my valentine lived half way across the country so I was always available for the Bacardi filled strawberry shots (topped with whip cream) at the Valentines Schmalentines shindig. 

Years later and this day continues to be thought of as a Hallmark holiday in our home. Don't get me wrong, I have a little Pinterest board that hosts numerous recipes and decor, but we hardly celebrate Valentine's Day. Staying true to tradition, we have no plans to celebrate this year. Since it's on a school night, I'm on Whole 30, and we have a concert date night coming up in a few weeks, we will be bumming it at home. How romantic.

Don't fret though, I still have a couple of Valentine's Day plans for my sweet toddler and some ideas for that special someone in your life! 

Toddler

E's school has a party each year and I am so excited to announce that I am AHEAD OF THE GAME for the first time in forever! Did that little phrase spark a song in your head? Sorry about that. 

Since everyone typically gives something edible for the party, I always try to do something a little different. Last year E gave out small containers filled with bubbles and a tag that said, "You make my heart bubble, valentine!" We also have to sign up to bring something to the party and somehow I ALWAYS get stuck with sandwiches. This party was no different, but I used a heart shaped cookie cutter to make the sandwiches a bit more festive.  

I thought about making my White Chocolate Cherry Cookies this year, but signed up for juice instead.

This year I designed her card after one of her favorite books. Can you guess which one?

I am pairing it with these "wild" masks:

I'll be sure to post the complete valentine on Instagram so feel free to connect with me on there so you don't miss it. 

For E's gift we are keeping it rather simple: a book, some bows and possibly a pretend make-up kit. 

Guys

A gift for the husband is always a bit trickier since he literally told me today, "I'm fine with a card and maybe some candy." While I know he doesn't expect much, I did come up with a few ideas for that special man in my life:

• Atlanta Falcons gear - Win or lose he loves his team!
• Detail service for his truck - He's not the type of guy who spends hours cleaning it, so why not have someone else do it?
• Tickets - I think this is usually the best type of gift! Find a fun event and turn it into a date night. Need some ideas? We've done football games, concerts, local comedy shows, murder mystery dinners and the WWE. Yes, I am embarrassed to admit that. 

Ladies

I have no idea if any guys read my blog, but if you are in need of a gift for your lady companion here is what I would be happy with:

• A deep clean for the house - Get her out of the house and give yourselves a break! Approach with caution though...you don't want her to get offended. Most likely she will be in the same club as I am. #yesplease
• Gift cards - I accept any and all donations to the spa, Sephora/Ulta, Amazon & Target. 
• Date night in a jar - Fill a jar with twelve different date night ideas. It can be fancy schmancy or something low key like a coffee date at Starbucks. Women appreciate thoughtful gifts and it buys you sometime before you have to pull out the wallet! 

Well folks, that sums up my plans for Valentine's Day and gives you a few LOVEly (get it?) things to think about. I would love to hear your thoughts on kid valentines, gift ideas and any other things you would like to share for this Hallmark holiday! Feel free to comment below or if you are a blogger, link up with us for some girl chat!

*Linking up with Lindsay's Sweet World for Girl Chat.

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