Cheri Strange, Christian Speaker and Author

Tomorrow is Valentine's Day!

Most couples would prefer to spend a romantic evening alone, but if you have children, that may not be an option. Some of us simply can't afford both the night out as well as the cost of a sitter. Others may not be able to find a sitter AT ALL due to demand generated on this one evening. Or, maybe you have ventured out in previous years, like we have, only to waste the majority of the evening waiting on dinner at a restaurant (not my man's idea of a great time :/). 

Let's face it, the options for spending that romantic night alone on Valentine's Day, are slim at best. That is why we began opting to wait for a date night the following weekend, and instead, introduced a tradition that involves the whole family.

For the past several years, we have utilized this special evening as a training ground for etiquette and manners. We prepare the dining room table with the "good dishes." Everyone helps set the table with place settings you might find at an expensive restaurant, complete with salad and dessert forks, as well as goblets for drinking water. I make a "fancy" dessert but we order the meal from a restaurant that provides take-out. Everyone changes out of their school and work clothes for something a little nicer, we create ambiance with music and candles, and sit down to a most memorable evening.

At this point, my girls are willing to clear their schedules to be home for this event. It makes them feel elegant while preparing them for events that might come there way in the future. This year, I'm going to add a time to express to each of them how much we love them, and specifically, what characteristics we see blossoming in them that we find beautiful. (I will take a turn, and then Dad will take a turn.) I also bought a little $2-type gift for each one at a discount store -- just for fun. 

They will have to endure this type of exchange between the father and myself, as well. According to research, the best gift we can give our girls is parents secure in their marriage. They need to see it lived out in front of them -- even if their current response is, "Ewwwwe!" coupled with lots of giggling.

All this hoopla may be more than you desire for a Tueday. I understand. I simply love holidays! The point is to find ways to capitalize on the time God has blessed us with...together. Instead of being saddened by missing out on all the fun or just not doing anything because you can't find or afford a sitter, try somthing else that redeems the time and the intention of the holiday...to make those you love aware of how much they mean to you. Make it simple. Make it lavish. Whatever you choose, make it effective. In doing so, you will indeed, be living beyond ordinary.