February is coming. And we all know what that means – Valentine’s Day, and everything red, lacy, and dark chocolatey. Not that I’m complaining, but I’d like to suggest another way you can “offer up” your Valentine’s Day. I have always made it a family affair, because, you know, kids like to have fun… and I’m pretty sure they like to feel loved and eat chocolate as much as the average adult. Involving your children in every holiday is not only a good time, but teaches them that life is about celebrations, creating connections, and enjoying each day to the fullest. In fact – why wait for a holiday – have a heck of a Tuesday night – I dare you!

Ever since my four were tiny, we had several February 14th traditions . That night, we would eat red food – spaghetti, or heart shaped pasta, then go on a “heart hunt”. This was simply a scavenger hunt with the hints written on heart shaped pieces of paper. The treasures found at the end were a gift bag for each filled with dollar store trinkets, or later, as they got older, whatever they were into – nail polish, a new scarf, key chain, cologne, whatever. Nothing fancy – but fun, and something they looked forward to each year. When they were all old enough to write notes to each other – or at least draw a picture – we started the tradition of putting out little mailboxes on February first. These mailboxes were decorated by each child and sat ready to collect notes and drawings from the family. They were found at Target years ago – very inexpensive. If you can’t find mailboxes, you can decorate paper bags or empty tissue boxes for the same purpose. It was always so fun to watch them check for mail – sometimes several times a day 💌. I have a bag of notes that I have saved over the years. It’s so much fun to read them now and laugh about the messages or handwriting. Reading these notes helps to confirm that they really ARE building a solid relationship- that they do actually love each other, despite a bit of yelling and door slamming that happens in every house.

The notes were all quite different. Some thanked family members for helping them with something. Others were poetry (my personal favorites!). But all of them took time to write. The family member had to be deliberate about showing affection – and that was the goal. If you love someone- tell them. Or show them. But don’t keep it to yourself. Making others feel loved and appreciated is something that we are all capable of – even the littles ❤️

Just wanted to encourage you to use February to show your love. Send a note to a friend. Call your Mom. Text your neighbor. Tell them why they matter to you. They will love it, and never forget you or the time it took to share the sentiment. It’s not difficult – and it can completely turn someone’s day around. And, before I sign off, I just wanted to say that I am so grateful for YOU. I love to write, but it makes me even happier knowing that others are reading my words, and (hopefully) enjoying them. You make a difference in my world. Enjoy your February- and I hope you get some chocolate, too!