Expressions of Love

Written by Julie Hying

10 High-Impact Gestures That Are Easy on the Wallet

In February, when thoughts of valentines reign supreme, we look for ways to celebrate the holiday. Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14, originated when St. Valentine ignored a king’s edict to marry young lovers and has transformed into a holiday that arrives with reminders of romance. The ways in which we show love and appreciation are varied and can be creative and filled with imagination and meaning. They need not be paired with expensive price tags to bear importance or convey emotion. Symbols and tokens can speak volumes and say to that special person, “You and no other.”

10. Comfort and Joy – a Gift to Warm Heart and Soul

Winter winds blow frigid and chill. Envelop the heart of your loved one by warming them with a carefully chosen scarf. Colorful cashmere, flannel, classic plaid, perhaps one crocheted or hand-sewn, warms the spirit and provides luxury and comfort throughout the season.

9. Meet Me at the Movies

Date night, whether single or married, can include a trip to the theater or a movie at home. Stories told on the big screen enhance the experience and create a lasting memory to be treasured. Choose a film that tells a heart-felt story or a romantic comedy with light moments eliciting laughter and smiles that linger all night, and long after the credits roll.

8. Your Chariot Awaits

In the busy bustle of our lives, it’s a nice surprise to have someone tend to our vehicles. Fill your loved one’s ride with fuel and take a trip through a car wash. Return your loved one’s chariot to him or her with a shine, ready to be taken for a spin. Then enjoy a drive together filled with lively conversation, quiet tenderness or musical selections.

7. Love Letters

Instead of composing one of your own, borrow the beautifully written letters shared throughout history. From Beethoven to Bonaparte, writers, along with other famous figures, both male and female, have classically penned their thoughts of love and longing. Allow these love-filled letters to inspire you and share feelings with your special someone.

6. A Loving Touch

The relaxation of massage goes beyond the moment, offering stress relief and restored energy. A professional appointment is always nice; better still is time set aside to deliver a massage with your own loving touch. Tenderness expresses caring, kindness, calm and consideration. Healing hands need no words to say, “I love you.”

5. The Dance

Great stories of love may be remembered by a single dance. Reminiscent of a previously celebrated special occasion or just a moment between two people, the movement to music can bring two hearts together. A rooftop, backyard, a space in front of the fireplace – any atmosphere can be a place to embrace and move to music and melody in sweet harmony.

4. Starry Night

Let your girl or guy know that each night, when you gaze upon the stars in the heavens, that one special star bears his or her name, and brightens the darkness beyond in a unique way. Among Orion and Cassiopeia, a single star shines and reminds you of a special loved one.

3. A Perfect Symbol: The Rose

Although fragrant and beautiful, a bouquet of roses feels formal and sometimes cliché. Unique and personal, a single rose in blossoms of red, pink or white whispers hints of romantic love and intimacy. Classically elegant, always in season, a rose aromatically calls to mind thoughts of romance and passion, and renders the recipient enraptured by a spell of love.

2. The Way to the Heart

It’s often been said that the way to a man’s (or woman’s) heart is through the stomach. For palatable reasons or those connected with time and effort put forth, this rings true. Warm, rich lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo or perhaps a perfectly prepared filet mignon paired with a mellow red or a crisp white wine can be as delicious, as pleasing and as appreciated as any meal served in an elegant city restaurant.

1. Drive-By Surprise

One frigid day in February, stop by the workplace of your Valentine to drop off a cup of coffee or a treat of hot tea to be enjoyed. Just holding the warm vessel with its delicious liquid will warm the heart of your loved one. Going out of your way to show you care is a kind and thoughtful gesture, ever enjoyed, always appreciated.