I don't know about any of you-but I'm finding it hard to believe that we are already at the point where we are about to celebrate Valentine's Day!

With the economy falling, many of us losing our places in the employment world-I'm betting this year will be a bit more homebound and financially creative that in years past.  In fact, that's what I'm going to talk about this week-how to have a romantic evening without busting the budget!

Our own chocolatier gave some wonderful suggestions if you're including your kids or grandkids:

oWe put my granddaughter's juice in a small wine glass. She gets to toast with everyone at the table which is really cute. I dim the lights and put out nice linens. We have music.  

Some additional thoughts  

Dessert, serve one per couple at the table so they have to share – with one fork or spoon  

Seat loved ones close enough to each other to play footsie under the table  

Start a compliment circle around the table, either sharing a sweet memory or stating something they like about another member at the table  

Don't jump up and immediately start doing the dishes. Clear the table only as is necessary but come back and sit and have continued conversation after dinner  

Or take the conversation into the other room and have soft music playing  

I had posted the questions in hope of getting suggestions for an article I was supposed to write for the OC Register-but alas, it didn't work out.  But I loved chocolatier's suggestions and didn't want them to go to waste!

On Wednesday-we need to have some red/pink dishes to serve!