How to Make Her Feel Special (on Valentine's Day, Her Birthday, Anniversary, or Other Special Occasion)

Everyone deserves to feel loved on their special day. If you're lacking for ideas, here are a few to try... I promise she won't be let down (and you can take all the credit)!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Start with a Handwritten Note:
   What better way to start the day than with a birthday wish next to your pillow? Jot your thoughts down on a cute piece of stationery and leave it on the nightstand with a small trinket--a flower, a piece of her favorite chocolate, or a coupon good for something to look forward to later in the day. If you are unsure what to write, tell her what you love about her, what makes her unique, or jot down a cherished memory the two of you share.
2. Create a Treasure Hunt:
   Nothing is more fun than watching a loved one search the house for hints and clues on where to find their treasure. Start with a simple hint (write in rhyme to make it even more fun). Place the second clue where the first one led your special lady, and continue as long as you want. Go from the refrigerator to the hall closet to the mailbox... you get the picture. The last clue should lead to the treasure--make sure you put it somewhere that it won't be found when she's searching for her other clues! Wrap it up nice and watch her eyes light up!
3. Create a Book of Personalized Coupons:
   You don't need to be Martha Stewart to create a homemade gift that will please. Buy a miniature book with blank pages and decorate with markers, sequins, ribbon, glitter--anything and everything that adds pizzazz! Don't be shy--the last thing on her mind will be that it looks like a child made it; she will be thrilled with the effort you put into it, no matter how goofy the end product may end up looking!
   
   Here are some ideas to get you started:
   Coupon good for one night out on the town
   Coupon good for one romantic bubble bath
   Coupon good for one batch of her favorite cookies
   Coupon good for one picnic at the park
   Coupon good for one complaint-free trip to the mall
   
   *For those of you who are not so crafty, buy a gift card for a salon or spa and wrap it up in a themed basket with towels, nail polish and bubble bath.
4. Serve her Favorite Dinner:
   Create a romantic and intimate setting for two and serve her favorite dish. Make sure you dim the lights and light a couple candles. Use the nice linens and if you're feeling really clever, print out a menu of the courses you plan to serve. Don't forget to top it off with dessert!

Tips & Warnings

• If you are lost on where to find items for the coupon book, just visit your local craft store. Michael's, Joann's Fabric, even the dollar store! You will find all kinds of treasures to decorate your book of promises.
• This may seem like a no-brainer, but if she's on a diet, make sure she is able to stick to her plan and don't tempt her with a dinner she will feel guilty about later! After her regular dinner, serve her some hot tea and give her a foot rub or back massage.