Valentine’s Day is in 6 weeks 
Have you started planning for it, yet?
“Rachel, why mention it now?”
Here’s the simple secret for today. If you know enough in advance, you can start preparing for next month’s budget changes (i.e. you can find room in the budget for extras, a sitter, fancy at home meal, making dinner reservations, gifts, and those classroom parties 
)
It doesn’t have to be a surprise occasion, and it doesn’t have to pop up and be stressful either.
So here’s a few tips to help you and your loved ones still feel special on the loveliest upcoming holiday.
Don’t go over budget to celebrate. Holidays can be special without all the frills. Work within your season. If you can’t afford to go out to eat, make a nice supper at home. One of the best investments is in the Celebration Menu box from Passionate Penny Pincher. With the digital recipe download costing less than an appetizer eating out ($15), it might be something to look into for your family.
Individual gifts are overrated. Give something the whole family can enjoy together! Like a homemade fancy chocolate cake (don’t worry friend, it just looks fancy— but I promise super easy!) with a game night after to celebrate! You can get a whole book of Bundt cake recipes (fail proof) from The Minimal Mom for $5.
Write a love letter to your spouse.
Cut out construction paper hearts, write out one thing you love each day for each kid and stick it with tape to their room or the front door!
If you do decide to purchase a special gift for someone or wanting something practical— consider my own annual splurge. My family gifts me a new Bogg Bag every Valentine’s Day. It’s a bit of an investment, but the amount of use and options make it a life saver! Did I mention the cleanup and durability on this thing (it can hold 40 pounds) is a mom’s best bag friend!
Show a local business you CARE about them by ordering a special treat for a special someone!
Maybe it’s a card from Jacque’s Hallmark Shop…
Maybe it’s a charcuterie box from Wooden Spoon…
Maybe it’s a morning mocha from Good Grounds – Coffee & Bistro…
Maybe it’s a cinnamon roll breakfast from My Sweet Home Bakery…
Maybe it’s chocolate covered strawberries or a caramel apple from The Candy Crafter Candy Bouquets 
Maybe it’s a devotional from Simply Blooming Grace…
Maybe it’s popcorn and a movie from Sherman Theatre…
Maybe it’s a night out or girls lunch at The Elephant Bistro & Bar or The Dish Room…
Maybe it’s a glow at The Bronze Exchange…
Maybe it’s the works with a haircut, mani, pedi and pampered with Sheila and Holly at All About You Salon & Spa…
Your local community is booming with people who create thoughtful gifts for people everyday.
Start planning now to show yourself love by not stressing out later.
Simply Blooming Grace 