.........CHARITHA

10 more days to Valentine and you are stuck for ideas for where to take your sweetheart /spouse this Valentine's Day? You are done with giving roses, teddies, cards, gifts, candle light dinners ,diamonds etc. etc …and now you are lost in thoughts at work as to what to do with event coming around the corner . And not to forget the children to take care.

So then why not stay at home? Spending Valentine's Day in your own little love nest can make sense both financially and romantically. With a little planning, you can personalise your day and add to the intimacy, away from the overcrowded and overpriced restaurants and hotels and not to forget the kids.

Here are a few ideas to impress your loved one and make them feel truly special this February 14:

• Spa Experience : Either of you could make breakfast early and start the day together. Since it’s a Friday, you could get back home early and surprise him/her with a Spa Experience. Lead them upstairs to a bathroom softly lit by candlelight and a bathtub infused with soothing oils or salts. Place a glass of wine and chocolates on the side of the tub so your loved one can indulge in these delights while you prepare the bedroom. Afterwards, share your favourite foods ( you could make or order )and settle down to watch a romantic film.

• Home picnic : A picnic at home can be fun and romantic. Throw down some cushions and stir up some seduction by scattering rose petals. Dim the lights and if your culinary skills aren’t enough to fill your home with gorgeous smells, light a scented candle, which will also add to the ambiance. Don’t stress about the menu or spend hours in the kitchen, after all, your loved one wants to see you. Instead, choose dishes that are simple to prepare and great for sharing. Finally press play on some romantic tunes, but keep them subtle and not too cheesy. Dont forget to send the kids out to your friends or moms place.

• A Treasure Hunt : Turn your home into a love train. Write flirty or loving messages on a heart-shaped paper and hide them around the home, along with clues leading to the next one. Alternatively, use a trail of wrapped chocolates to guide your sweetheart. At the end of the trail hide their Valentine’s gift. For an extra special touch, write a love letter or a piece of poetry and place it with the gift

For those creative persons who have time on hand , come out with your own creative ideas to make the day special.

And for those who have no time for all the above the simplest tip :

plan an early exit from office

fresh up and change into something special

watch a movie and

have simple meal which both of you like and end the day early.