A Family Valentine

Valentines' Day should be about spending quality time with those we love. There is such commercialization of this holiday and more people are focused on what they need to gift others versus sharing quality time with their loved ones. There's so much stress and focus on buying candy, flowers, and jewelry and not enough on creating lasting memories that are filled with joy and sincere love. Candy and flowers can be fine but they don't require much effort, and when it comes to love, it's the effort, thought and creativity that shows at a greater magnitude just how much we care. Create unique and wholesome memories with your loved ones this year by planning fun and simple activities that can be enjoyed by all and capture the true essence of what Valentines' Day is all about. Not sure how? Never fear, here are four creative ways to make this Valentines' Day fun and memorable with those closest to you.

Breakfast for Dinner

Who doesn't love breakfast for dinner? This sweet alternative is not only affordable and simple, but it can become a wonderful family tradition that will be cherished by members of all ages. It's amazing how a simple meal change can excite everyone in the house. Pancakes for dinner, yes please! Get a little fancy and dress the table with some of your best china and linens while listening to jazzy, upbeat music. Plan to make your family's breakfast favorites for dinner and include the kids in the cooking process to create some fun and lasting memories. Be sure to have the broom on hand, things might get a little messy.

Indoor Picnic

Another kid-friendly and creative Valentines' celebration. Planning a picnic can be fun, but February is typically not the month for outdoor family meals. Be creative in setting up a fun and festive picnic on your living room floor. Get the fire going and maybe even roast some marshmallows with the kiddos. Sometimes the simplest plans can be the most cherished memory. In need of some relaxing and quality alone time? Once the kids are asleep, bring out the grown-up snacks and drinks and set up a romantic picnic for two by the fire and enjoy each other's company by reminiscing on those sweet memories of your first Valentines' together.

Family Photo Viewing Party

This one is the simplest idea but it will probably have a greater emotional impact that will create a lasting memory to warm your heart in the years to come. Gather the kids, throw some pillows on the floor, start the fire and grab the photo albums to reminisce on the yesteryears. Looking through family photos is a great way to share quality time with your loved ones because it requires we remember all those special moments we've shared that we sometimes forget. Children love seeing old photos of their parents as kids and listening to all the goofy and even cool things they did. You can look back and remember those early years when it was just two young lovers starting an adventure of a lifetime together and see how far you both have come and the many blessings you've been given. This sweet pastime is one where we can share the love even with those who have left us as we flip through photos of our grandparents, friends, and loved ones that touched our hearts and shared love and laughter.

Tea Time Valentine

Get the kettle on and warm up the scones, a Tea Time Valentine is sure to warm you up. Now, this idea may be one that appeals to the feminine members of the house, but I know a few men who love a good cup of tea. Whether it's an all-girls celebration or everyone sitting down for afternoon tea, get together with those you love and enjoy a warm cup with delicious snacks and treats. Make this get-together as simple or as festive as you want and spend some quality time chatting and laughing with those in your life. Check out my Blueberry Scone recipe here which will be perfect to add to your tea time menu.