I have never been a Valentine’s Day person. I think this came from years of being single and thinking Valentine’s Day was just a way for Hallmark to rub my boyfriend-less status in my face. But, I think as we have gotten older, and the world has gotten more progressive, Valentine’s Day has become more about acknowledging the people you love, as opposed to a holiday just about romance. Plus, since Mike and I are exhausted, overworked parents, a little required romance is never a bad thing.
Do you need to get your children gifts for Valentine’s Day? No. No, you do not. But, I find that the promise of a gift in the near future is a very useful parenting tool. As in, when Mazzy and Harlow ask me to buy them something reasonably priced but unnecessary, I can say, “Not now. But if you would like, I can buy it for you for Valentine’s Day.”
This means that for Valentine’s Day this year, Mazzy is getting a huge blanket hoodie sweatshirt called The Comfy. Apparently, her friends have a plan to all wear it to school on the same day. Harlow is getting a Rubik’s Cube. For no other reason except that while Mazzy and I were negotiating the Valentine’s Day purchase of The Comfy, Harlow was in the process of discovering, enjoying and then breaking a cheap miniature Rubik’s Cube that she found in a goodie bag.
“Well, then can I get a new Rubick’s Cube for Valentine’s Day???” Harlow asked, through frustration and tears. Yes, Harlow, you can.
If you want some ideas for other totally random Valentines’ Day gifts that your kids will actually appreciate, I made a guide. Everything is reasonably priced, because Valentine’s Day is really a holiday that should embody “it’s the thought that counts.” I also included a few gifts that I want, some options for Mike and a few for your single friends. They need love too!
LEGO Brickheadz Valentine’s Bee
Just Between Us: Mother-Daughter Journal
Puppy Love: True Stories of Doggie Devotion
The Comfy Sherpa Blanket Jacket
Magic Sequin Heart Ruffle Sweatshirt
Pete the Cat: Valentine’s Day is Cool
Kid Made Modern Valentine’s Craft Kit
Don’t Laugh Challenge: Valentine’s Day Edition
Scratch-Off Classic Movie Poster
F*ck It, Let’s Do This! 100-Challenge Couple’s Bucketlist Planner
Six Ways to Say I Love You Six-Pack Beer Card
Roller Rabbit Heart Pajama Set
Moon & Star Diamond Stud Earrings (these are pricey but I couldn’t resist!)
Rosé All Day Essential Guide Book
Things You Should Already Know About Dating, You F*cking Idiot
Cat
I Like Dogs and Maybe 3 People Tee
Tell me what you would like for Valentine’s Day in the comments below!
Definitely not trying to be a Debbie Downer but I have been struggling with Valentine’s this year as it’s my first since my husband died. Stupid cancer. Thing is, we never even really did Valentine’s as a couple, but now we can’t, ugh. Hearts everywhere make me grumpy.
But this has been a different take on it, and now I’m thinking instead of hiding and trying to ignore the day I’ll make it into a love on for my kids. And switch it up to make it a celebration of family instead.
So thanks, I feel inspired now!