Do you have any special plans in mind for your spouse & you for Valentine’s Day? The poor economy may not permit you & your loved one to have an elegant dinner at a fancy restaurant or to binge on a dozen of red beautiful roses. However, here are a few affordable alternatives that you may want to discuss with your spouse for an exciting Valentine’s Day:

1.) Instead of hiring out a babysitting so you both can go on a date, how about sending the kids over to grandma’s house, a neighbors house or relatives home for a few hours? Once you have the home all to yourselves, sigh with relief as you start your evening with a an intimate picnic dinner for two right on your living room floor! That is correct! So hurry up & grab your blanket, candles, beverages and dinner to have a little fun doing something different! Turn off all the lights so you can bask in the ambiance of a romantic candle light dinner right in your very home. Turn on your favorite music, feed one another if you choose and enjoy this unique evening created for both of you.

2.) If you don’t have children, if they are grown up & on their own or if your children are young enough to put into bed a little early in the evening on Valentine’s Day, how about filling up the bathtub with bubble bath or aromatherapy oils, surrounding your tub with your favorite scented candles and turning on soft music for a little bath time fun for you & your spouse?

3.) Enjoy mutual massages! Nothing says, "I love you" like a soft massage from your spouse. Set up some soft lighting and romantic music to create the mood. Have an assortment of massage oils readily available and take your time. You do not have to be a pro to help your spouse relax with a stimulating massage to soothe aching muscles and this could lead to other Valentine’s Day treats!

4.) Make your own box of chocolates. Purchase a simple gift box and fill it with your spouse's favorite chocolates and candies. With a personalized box, you can be sure your spouse will like every flavor he or she gets.

5.) Write a love letter from your heart. Tell your spouse how much he or she means to you. Spill your guts by being utterly honest and seal it with a kiss. Your beloved will be grateful to hear all the ways in which you love him or her. This is a sentimental gift that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Keeping the romance an important part of your marriage should be a priority everyday, not just on Valentine's Day. Try to get in the habit of surprising your husband or wife with small love notes (or if you're more tech-savvy, try sending him or her a romantic text message). By simply making your spouse feel special, you are ensured a love-filled Valentine's Day.

However you choose to spend Valentine’s Day with your husband or wife, the main point is to have some fun, share an evening “alone“, do not break the bank and you will be guaranteed to keep the fire burning!