“How do I love thee? let me count the ways…”

Spoken and written words are like bricks that you can use to build your partner up. Just as harsh words can sting and scar long after they are spoken, language of tenderness and love can encourage for years to come. I love my husband’s handwriting, the thrill of re-reading the letter he wrote on our first anniversary or finding a note left in my dresser drawer. For help in writing a love letter read Shakespeare 101: Writing Love Letters and Poems

Ideas for Gifts of Affirmation: Letters and cards are obvious, but what about trying your hand at a poem? Consider the specific reasons that you admire your loved one. Hand-write it on nice stationary and consider framing it. Is he/she wild about your voice? Tape record a declaration of your feelings and secretly leave it in their car tape player.

Cost: $0-5 Depending upon stationary, frame, tape, etc.

An evening Together

Between our two jobs, his finishing his degree, and various school and church activities, there are some days that my husband and I are lucky to have one waking hour together. As newlyweds, this state of affairs can take its toll. We have made a commitment to each other and our marriage to have one date night a week. This time is “ours” and it is sacred, our way of giving the gift of quality time. The “quality” refers to giving undivided attention; this time must be unhurried and uninterrupted. We often go to a favorite coffee shop and sit outside, away from our apartment and its plethora of distractions.

Ideas for Gifts of Time: Pack a picnic basket and find a grassy spot under a tree in a nearby park. Don’t forget the candles! Take a stroll together down town and end the date with a cup of espresso or a mocha latte. Challenge your beloved to a game of one-on-one basketball. Go roller skating together (how long has it been since you did THAT?!) Roast marshmallows over a small portable grill and talk under the stars.

Cost: $0-15

More Gifts >>