Valentine’s Day is almost here, and I am going to let you in on a little secret. I am super excited! You might ask why if you are single. Not for me, silly, but for my kids. When I was a little girl, my mother would get my sisters and me Valentine’s Day gifts. She would usually get us chocolates, a plush toy, and flowers. What I preferred were the flowers that she gave us. Flowers can make my frown turn upside down in a matter of moments, and I can forget about any problems I might have.

When I got my own garden, I was constantly planting perennials and annuals all over my garden. My favorite flower is the tulip. Tulips signal that spring is here. I think another reason is that at George Mason, they had the most impressive landscape that would fill up with tulips. During this time in my life, I was dealing with my unsupportive ex and going to school with a huge pregnant belly. When I saw these tulips swaying in the wind, I would instantly lighten up and remember that one day I would be ok.

Now that I am older, I have given and received flowers. My favorite place to get them is from 1-800-Flowers. They always have some special deal going on, and they are pretty responsive. Maybe I will be surprised on Saturday with my own dozen, but I am not holding my breath. For my kids, I went and made a little Valentine’s package, which includes chocolate, activity book, movie, and a single rose. I always have flowers all over the condo, and so they are starting to have the same appreciation for them like I have.

Even if you don’t have children or a significant other, go out there and buy yourself some flowers, even fake ones count.

By the way, if you are going to buy flowers for your loved ones, use code BIRTHDAY15 to get 15% any purchase off 1-800-FLOWERS. This is my Vday present to you.

Related articles:

• Flock Says Forget the Lingerie and Chocolate; Instead Download Flock! (centernetworks.com)
• Make This Valentine’s Day Sustainable, Not Scary (treehugger.com)
• Yahoo Runs Heart Border Along Valentine’s Day Searches (searchenginewatch.com)

The kids and I made Christmas totes for Isabelle’s two teachers, Cebastian’s teacher, and Cebastian’s day care provider. They are a great way to make totes that people will always treasure, can carry art or teacher supplies, and you don’t waste unnecessary paper.

Materials List

• Four totes
• Fabric Paint
• Jeweled Ribbon
• Fabric Glue
• Old Towel

Instructions

1. Lay down old towel
2. Do not get involved.  Let the children paint designs on the tote
3. Let dry for 5-10 minutes.
4. With the fabric glue, glue the jeweled ribbon on the tote
5. Let dry for 12-24 hours

Today I met up with my co-moderator, from a woman’s social group that I am a member of, at Victoria‘s Secret. I got a pair of body splash and body cream for each person. I got scents that were very faint because not everyone loves pungent or sweet smells.

At Michaels, I got Land O’ Lakes recipe books to accompany the Victoria’s Secret items, totes, fabric paint, jeweled ribbons, and fabric glue. Let your children pick out the items. It will make them more involved in the craft.

Voila! Instant, green, not-break-your budget presents for teachers.

I’ve come to realize that people prefer presents that you put some thought and effort into more than the expensive, I-didn’t-think much present. It’s something that you always cherish. The children’s teachers are going to love these totes. The kids (with my help) did a great job. I am so proud of them.

Other Great Ideas: 

Recycled Newspaper Gift Bags: http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2008/12/how_to_recycled_newspaper_gift.html

I’m getting ready to leave the house to finish the rest of the Christmas shopping.  Last night I spent my time wrapping all the gifts that I have been hiding.  The kids picked out the best wrapping paper imaginable. 

My Secret Santa is my mom, and she wants Victoria Secret silk (or satin) pajamas, so going to do that during the week.  Malls overflooded with people is not my thing.

Haji has been a great companion.  The only thing that is cute and annoying is how he is always on my Mac when I am trying to type.  Love this cat!  I am so glad that I adopted him.  My parents even bought him a gift.  It was way too cute.  My mom said, “He’s part of the family now.”  I was pleasantly surprised because my parents are not animal lovers.  I am ready to fill up his stocking!

I feel a whole lot better now and are ready to hang out with my friend.  The sayings that “things happen for a reason” and “something good comes out of something bad” are true.  I am being way productive on getting things prepped to launch my freelance writing business, and I am getting all the things done that I have been procrastinating on.  

I hope that everyone has a great weekend!