With all of the snow that has covered the east coast, it seems most appropriate to share a fun outdoor craft- snow painting!  All you need for this project is a spray bottle, water, food coloring, and snow.  While it can be an any day craft, it also can be used for holiday fun.  Living in New England, I have used this craft (sadly) for Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, and more.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it would be the perfect time to try this project with a little red food coloring and some creativity!

Valentine’s Snow Painting

Supplies

1 spray bottle

water

red food coloring

Directions

1.  Fill spray bottle with water.  Add several drops of food coloring to bottle, and replace cap.

2.  Dress for snow play, and head outside.

3.  Create a large heart shape in the snow.

4.  Using spray bottle, squirt colored water to make snow heart the shade you desire.

*You can use the spray for many other snow projects:  to give a snowman a colored skirt, to color the walls of your fort, and more.  Be creative!

So, you’ve decided to have a Valentine’s party on February 14? It’s going to be a tight schedule and you’ll have to do a lot of planning, but it’ll be worth it in the end.

First, decide on a date. Do you want it on Valentine’s weekend? Or the weekend before or after? Do you want it on a Saturday or Sunday? Brunch, lunch, afternoon snacks or dinner? Where are you gonna have it? Outdoor or indoor? Are you going to have it in your house or are you renting an outside place? So many decisions.

But for something as spontaneous as this, having it at a house is the most practical idea. Making it a potluck event will minimize costs and prep time for the host. Better yet, make it a special potluck event and have people bring in their specialties.

Prepare a guest list. How many people are you inviting? Make sure your guests will be able to fit in your venue. Oh, and don’t forget RSVP. It may be short notice, but you still have to have an idea of the number of people to expect. Nothing’s more depressing than a Valentine’s party where no one shows up.

Lastly, decide on your party theme. Are you going to have costumes? Is it casual or a party where people have to be in their finest outfits? You can use the theme to dictate the decorations, invitations, music and the overall mood of the party. As the host, you can also embody the theme.

What are some themes you can use?

1.  Movie Theme

You can pick a particular movie or use romance movies in general. Have love songs from movies playing in the background. Name the food using lines or characters from the movie or different movies. Organize games or activities, including trivia games featuring info from these movies.

2.  Mask Party

Have people come in masks or provide masks for your guests. Use the masks to create Valentine games, including creating matching masks and finding the other pair.

3.  Anything Goes

You also can choose to go the other extreme and use a completely opposite idea as your party theme. Make it a Halloween Valentine or Christmas Valentine or an anti-valentine Valentine. It’s all up to you.

Good luck planning your party, but don’t forget also to have fun!

Valentine’s Day conjures many images: hearts, cupid, holding hands, cute and fuzzy stuffed animals, flowers, and chocolate among others.  For this Valentine’s Day why not make a homemade chocolate treat for your loved ones?

This treat is sure to be a hit with both the maker and the receiver.  First, they are easy to make; you need only four ingredients and less than half an hour of time.  Second, they are healthier than many typical Valentine’s Day treats, so, less guilt for the eater.  Third, they make a beautiful present with their combination of holiday colors.  Finally, they are delicious- what’s not to like about that?

Valentine Strawberries

Ingredients
1 quart strawberries, washed & thoroughly dried
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 tsp. vegetable shortening
pink sugar crystals

Directions

1.  Place chocolate chips and shortening in a small mixing bowl, and heat on high in microwave for 1 minute.  Remove bowl and stir for 15 seconds.  If all of the chocolate has not melted, return to the microwave for an additional 15-30 seconds.

2.  Pour some sugar crystals into a small bowl.

3.  Holding a strawberry by its leaves, dip most of the strawberry into the melted chocolate.  Take the strawberry out of  melted chocolate, and using the back of a spoon, wipe excess chocolate off of strawberry.

4.  Dip tip of white chocolate-covered strawberry into the sugar crystals.  Place on a plate or piece of waxed paper and allow chocolate to harden.

*You should deliver the strawberries to their recipients within a day of making them.  If you live in a warm climate, you may need to refrigerate the strawberries to keep the chocolate hard.

Already? Well, I suppose that it is only less than a month away, but I could not believe my eyes when I saw the candies wrapped in pink and red tinfoil, the chocolate hearts, and the stuffed bears in the windows a few weeks ago. I feel like a few “blinks” ago those decorations were wreaths, nutcrackers, candy canes, and lights. Perhaps I just do not go shopping enough to watch the smooth transitions, who knows?

In any matter, to many people, Valentine’s Day has become what is known as a “Hallmark” holiday. Some people say that it is a holiday designed to give  card companies  business and a time for non-single people to show off the fact that they have someone by their side. Well, it is not just about that “stuff”.

Candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between people–all in the name of St. Valentine. Who is this being? Well, the history of Valentine’s Day is a mystery. The day itself contains traces of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. One legend is that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. During the time of war, Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, so he made it illegal for men to marry women. Valentine was against this and performed marriages for young lovers in secret. Eventually the Emperor found out about this, and Valentine was sentenced to death.

Another legend was that Valentine actually sent the first ‘valentine’ greeting. It is rumored that, while in prison, Valentine fell in love with a young girl who frequently visited him. The story goes that before he was about to be killed, he left a note for her. This note was signed with “From your Valentine.”

All of the stories lead to Valentine being a romantic person–one who was adored. In fact, by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France. Though it is unclear as to what really happened, we can assume that the date of Valentine’s day is derived from anniversary of Valentine’s death or burial.

Who says that Valentine’s Day is an exclusive holiday for couples? It’s true that we’re either with that special somebody, and if not, we’re looking for that special somebody. But by the time February 14 rolls around, many of us singles are feeling down because we are alone. Then why not treat yourself to something indulgent and fun?  Here are some fantastic ideas to cheer yourself up even when you’re single on V-Day.

1- Treat yourself to a little retail therapy
Use the Valentine’s Day blues as an excuse to indulge in a little retail therapy! Head to your favorite department store and peruse the sales racks (many stores offer special Valentine’s Day sales) and spoil yourself with a much needed shopping trip. Invite another pal who is single to share the joys of shopping.

2- Indulge in a chocolate treat
Valentine’s Day is all about chocolate, so go ahead and buy yourself a box of chocolates to savor.

3- Get out there and meet new people
Go to a cozy coffee shop or sign up for a cooking class or a co-ed sports activity, such as biking, just to get out of the house and meet new people. Who knows who you’ll meet, and at the very least you’ll make a few extra friends.

4- Host a Valentine’s Day dinner party for all your single friends
Celebrate being single and allow your good friends and co-workers to mix and mingle with an elegant dinner party. Keep it simple and serve foods that are universal favorites like spaghetti or lasagna. You also could choose seafood like grilled shrimp over rice or even smoked salmon! Keep the appetizers simple by serving warm soups in small china cups or easy hors d’ourves like pigs in the blanket. For dessert, offer something decadent like chocolate  mousse or crème brulee. Keep the décor simple and pleasing with a little bit of red and mostly cream. Try cream and white table décor and a center piece of red roses in the middle of the table.

Part 2 coming soon!

If you need more help in the movie search department for the upcoming Valentine’s Day celebration, then let Cupid’s arrow head in the direction of these excellent choices:

13 Going on 30 (2004)

Ever wish to be grown up when you were young? Thirteen year old Jenna wishes to be thirty years old, so her life will be exactly what she envisions it to be. Jenna gets her wish but then discovers the simple truth- be careful what you wish for because you just might get it. A delightful Jennifer Garner stars with Mark Ruffalo in this sweet and romantic modern day fairytale (well almost).

An Officer and a Gentleman (1982)

Zack and Paula meet and life will never be the same for either one of them. Enter the world of a naval aviator and the woman who captures his heart. Go back in time and fall in love!

The Notebook (2004)

Based on a book by bestselling author Nicholas Sparks, nobody does romance like this man! It is 1940. Noah and Allie are from different sides of the tracks, but that doesn’t stop the sparks (no pun intended!) from flying. What follows is a bittersweet love story that will have you shedding a few tears.

Top Gun (1986)

This movie is part action and part romance, and it has all the elements of a perfect pick for Valentine’s Day. Maverick and his teacher, Charlie, sizzle on screen amid the backdrop of Miramar, a school that is designed to make fighter pilots the best of the best.

The Wedding Singer (1998)

Ready for some laughs? Ready to party like it’s 1985? If yes, then join wedding singer Robbie and waitress Julia as they realize their love for each other after a series of comedic bumps along the way.

Against All Odds (1984)

A love triangle that may not play out as you would expect, this is a classic choice that stars a very talented cast. Ex-football star Terry is hired by his gangster friend Jake to find his rich socialite girlfriend Jessie. Upon finding her, the two fall in love, but then love turns to obsession and ends up leading to an unexpected tragedy.

Other movies worth mentioning include:

Indecent Proposal (1993)

Intersection (1994)

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

Notting Hill (1999)

The Object of My Affection (1998)

Sweet Home Alabama (2002)

The Unbearable Lightness of Being (1988)

9 ½ Weeks (1986)

Romantic theme movies always strike a special cord at Valentine’s Day. If nothing on the new release shelves calls out to you, then how about renting an older DVD? Here are some movies that you may not have considered that are worth a look. Cuddle up with your sweetie, and let the romance onscreen begin…

The English Patient (1996)

Okay so maybe this is a movie you have thought of, but it is still a good place to start. It is the end of World War II and a badly burned man is rescued from a plane crash. As a nurse tends to his injuries, a tale of a fateful and life altering love affair is revealed.

The Bridges of Madison County (1995)

Okay, perhaps not a surprise choice either. On two different paths, in two different places in their lives, Robert and Francesca meet, and sparks fly. What transpires is a brief relationship that will leave them changed forever. If you think love only happens to young people, you need to watch this movie.

The Blue Lagoon (1980)

A young boy and girl are shipwrecked on a tropical island. All they have is each other. This is the story of young love taking place in a natural way against the backdrop of a beautiful island paradise. Get shipwrecked on Valentine’s Day!

Dream for an Insomniac (1996)

An insomniac since childhood, Frankie has high hopes for love, as well as impossibly high standards. She is full of life, believes in fate, and has a collection of notable quotes memorized in her head. With three days left before she moves to Los Angeles with her best friend to pursue her dreams of becoming an actress, Frankie meets her match in writer David Schrader. If you enjoy witty banter and a light-hearted endearing romance, then check out this one. You may have to do some searching for it, though.

Drive Me Crazy (1999)

For the younger set or for those who want to go back to high school for Valentine’s Day, this is a good choice. Two fellow students join up to pull a scam and convince their peers that they are a couple in order to win back their former flames. The results of their efforts surprise even them. Melissa Joan Hart is adorable in her role as the preppy Nicole while Adrian Grenier is the boy who cleans up well.

We looked at how Feng Shui can help to attract love into your life. Now we take a look at the other side- the Feng Shui no-nos that can make it less likely that you will find the mate you are searching for.

If you have any of these items in your bedroom or relationship corner, then make sure that you get rid of them right away. You want to encourage love, not make it run for the hills!

Art/Photos of Singles- If you have any pictures of yourself where you are alone, then take them down. The same goes for any photos or artwork that shows one woman or one man. These are single things that keep single energy and single attitudes alive.

Mementos from Past Relationships- You cannot move forward until you are willing to give your past love life a fond farewell. Box up or get rid of all of the mementos that you have from past relationships, such as pictures, letters, cards, gifts, etc.

Pointy Objects- Any objects that are pointy and/or have sharp edges and angles are harsh and unyielding. This is not what you want. You want everything in your bedroom and relationship corner to be warm, inviting and soft.

Femininity Overload- You are a girl and you like girlish things but don’t overwhelm any man who steps into your home with it. Look around at your surroundings. If all you see is lace, floral, frills, perfume bottles, makeup and symbols of femininity then you need to tone it down a bit. When decorating your home give some thought to a man’s comfort level.

Juvenile Items- Keeping items from your childhood, such as dolls and teddy bears, will not attract the type of adult relationship you are seeking. These are juvenile items that should be packed up or donated in order for you to get on with your life.

Cold Symbols- Cold and love do not go together. You want warmth to radiate from your bedroom not cold. With this in mind do not decorate your bedroom blue, as blue is a cold color. Do not use blue paint, and do not buy blue colored bedding, blue curtains, blue area rugs or blue lamp shades. Do not keep anything in your bedroom that is reminiscent of the wintertime, such as snow scenes, polar bear figurines and the like.

If you are searching for that special someone as Valentine’s Day nears, then look to the ancient Chinese principles of Feng Shui (pronounced “phung schway”), also known as the art of placement, for the help you seek in finding a relationship that will be fitting and romance that will be fulfilling!

If you are single, then you need to get acquainted with the relationship corner in your home. Everyone has one. Here is how to find yours- walk in the front door of your house, go to the rear and then turn right. You are now in the relationship corner of your home. Depending on the layout of your home, your relationship corner may or may not be in your bedroom. If it is not, then bear in mind that your bedroom plays a key role in attracting the greater love energy you need to find that special someone.

Items for your Relationship Corner

There are certain items that you must place in your relationship corner in order to open yourself up to the potential for finding love (maybe even before Valentine’s Day arrives!).

Space- Clean out some space in order that your future love interest would have room if he were there. Leave a nightstand empty, clean out the closet and leave some space in the medicine cabinet.

Think Pink- Pink is symbolic for love in Feng Shui, so improve your love energy by adding some pink to your bedroom. If pink is not your color, then red will work just as well.

Matching Sets- Make sure that you don’t have single items lying around but instead have matching sets, such as figurines, vases, candles, and so on.

Round Mirrors- Mirrors represent good energy, and round mirrors are the most appropriate choice for this. Any other items that you have that are round in shape are appropriate as well, because round is curvy and feminine and can perk up a nonexistent love life.

Candles- Let’s face it, candles are hot, steamy, and romantic. Go with two pink or red candles. To add a greater level of sensuality, choose ones with a pleasant aroma.

Flowers- Flowers should be in your relationship corner or bedroom. Roses are good, but peonies (the Chinese flower for fidelity and marriage) are even better. Real flowers will work as will artificial ones. Hang a peony outside of your bedroom in order to improve your energy for attracting a mate.

A night of dining, dancing and romancing would suit you just fine. You can see it all in a romantic flash- the elegant restaurant, the candles, the filet mignon, the wine that keeps flowing and the swirl of your favorite dress. What a wonderful Valentine’s evening you have planned for yourself and your significant other. There is only one problem with your musings for the special occasion- you are living on a shoestring budget, so burgers and fries are more likely to be what shows up on your menu.

Valentine’s Day does not have to be expensive or super sophisticated to be special for the two of you. Burgers and fries from the fast food joint down the street can be just as special as steak and shrimp. Think of it as the shabby chic of eating, and go for it! Break out your best plates and silverware, light some candles, use your best placemats and your most elegant cloth napkins and enjoy a romantic evening.

To add a little more elegance to your Valentine’s Day dinner, pair your burgers and fries with a Chardonnay. A Chilean Chardonnay is a good option as is one from California. Or if you are really feeling casual then have a couple of beers with your Valentine’s Day feast. For a change of pace, choose an imported beer.

Pizza is another cheap and easy alternative that can be fancied up any way you want. Pizza is more designer today that it has ever been. Now there are more toppings and styles of pizza. For Valentine’s Day choose a pizza with the works, vegetarian, Hawaiian or meat lovers. Or order pizza from a place where you can choose all of your own toppings. Pair it with an Italian wine or some imported beer, and you are all set. Another option is to drink mineral water or sparkling water with your food. Pour the water into wine glasses and add a slice of lemon and you have instant pizzazz!

Other shabby chic food options to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the one you love include Chinese food, Thai food, Indian food, and fish and chips. Whatever types of take out are available in your area are all good ideas to share with the love of your life. Never let that put a dent in your creative ability to plan a fantastic Valentine’s meal!