How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day with your kids?
A few weeks back I was all enthusiastic about celebrating Valentine’s Day with the kids. I stopped into Hobby Lobby (my favorite store besides Target) and bought glittery pastel puffy paint for decorating heart cards, cute old-fashioned picks for cupcakes, heart plate and napkins. I’ve been practicing chocolate heart cookies and making special cherry drinks for the kids. (Cherry 7-Up with cherries in it.)
But after scrounging through closets this week searching for shoe boxes so the kids can make Valentine’s mailboxes and forcing them to write more than 40 Valentine’s between the two of them, I’m feeling a little annoyed with the holiday.
All my mom buddies are doing the same thing. We all had children at the kitchen table on Tuesday night writing out their Valentine’s cards and taping candy to the packages.
Our favorite fill-in host Keith is such a prepared mom she keeps shoe boxes around just for these types of projects. (I never save shoe boxes. Would diaper wipe boxes work? I have plenty of those.)
I’m taking in ice cream sundaes for the kids’ classrooms and special cherry drinks.
I’ve got special meal and dessert planned for Sunday for the family. Heart pancakes, chocolate dipped strawberries, passion fruit juice and of course bacon. (We’re planning to do church on Saturday night so we can sleep in on Sunday.) And then an easy lasagna in a slow cooker for dinner with homemade skillet brownies.
But I don’t have any good inexpensive gift ideas for them yet. I keep thinking about comic books. I know Walsh would love that but I’m not sure about the girls.
How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day with your kids? Do you celebrate with the kids or is the holiday really meant for couples? Did you have enough darn shoeboxes? How are they celebrating at school? What are some good inexpensive gift ideas?
Bonus: Some Valentine’s Day craft ideas for kids
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118 comments Add your comment
Wow...
February 11th, 2010
7:07 am
…you are one compulsive mom! I applaud your initiative regarding your children, yet you do seem to go overboard for all “holiday” events at school. And, while Valentine’s Day is a day for love and remembrance, it is NOT a holiday! So, have fun and try to remember that it was established for LOVERS (you do not mention your husband once in this story), and that does not mean children, per se!
ABC
February 11th, 2010
7:12 am
I agree with @Wow. This doesn’t need to be so stressful. I’m sorry Theresa, but you seem to be the stereotypical mom that some of us simply aren’t or don’t aspire to be.
For V-day, our school box was a family project, so everyone got involved which made it take less time and made it more fun. My son only had to address 18 cards, which was done over a couple of sittings. That’s it, done.
We got my son a small gift (a book) and I got my husband a card and we’ll go to dinner. It doesn’t have to be a bigger deal than that if you show your love for your family all year around.
motherjanegoose
February 11th, 2010
7:33 am
Fond memories here…when my kids were little they would convince Daddy to buy them their school box of Valentines in early January…as soon as the Christmas things were on clearance,
Of course, by the time the kids actually needed them they were either worn out from looking at them or no one could remember where the kids put them and we had to buy more I finally had to make a rule that they could be purchased early with Daddy but Mommy had to keep an eye on them…..LOL.
I have no big plans for Sunday, as I was supposed to be out of town. Two years ago, I was in Tennessee and felt sorry for the young hotel desk clerk who was working on Valentine’s night. I asked her how she ended up working and she said she had just broken up with her boyfriend and volunteered, so everyone else could be with their honey. I went to dinner ( looks ridiculous to be eating out alone on Valentine’s Day) and brought her back a GIANT piece of chocolate cake….we laughed that we both spent the night alone.
Reality….I am beginning to feel planned out after all these years.
I am trying to plan a summer vacation and it would be helpful if my daughter’s High School would set the date for graduation SOON. I need to plan her graduation dinner and do not want to have a deposit on a beach house when we probably need to be here for graduation….LOL.
@ tiger.. please read my post late last night about only children….this is not a fight I would pick, Of course, I just have an opinion and that is it. There are certainly benefits to having an only child too! They typically get the best of both parents and can be more mature and verbal too. …at least the ones I have worked with in the classroom.
motherjanegoose
February 11th, 2010
7:34 am
My comment evaporated Theresa…maybe you can dig it out….pretty early for this to happen!
BRC
February 11th, 2010
7:38 am
I will admit to saving shoe boxes specifically for this time of year. Maybe you could use it as an excuse to go buy yourself a new pair? ;-)
heresthedeal
February 11th, 2010
7:48 am
compulsive, annoying…same thing. if you didn’t have a blog to brag about it on, you wouldnt be making sundaes for the whole class, It’s not for the kids, it’s for you, supermom!!
JATL
February 11th, 2010
7:52 am
Yeah, I would take it down a notch (or five). I understand wanting every holiday and occasion to be memorable and fantastic for your kids. I fall into that a lot myself! However, I like to remember how things were when I was a kid and if I enjoyed it or not. I have to say that I always enjoyed Valentine’s Day at school, and part of it was because we decorated our boxes AT SCHOOL! Maybe that is happening -you didn’t say if they were doing them at home, just that you needed boxes. I’m sure any smaller-sized box would do. Do you really need to buy your kids gifts for V-day? I always think of it more as a day to spice up adult love lives or declare a crush or something in adolescence or beyond. For kids I think heart-shaped pancakes or some Valentine’s cookies and their Valentines cards they take for friends should be enough.
For my kids -a Valentine card and a special treat (heart shaped candy or a cookie -whatever they’re into) is the extent I’m going to. My hubby and I celebrate on our own.
JATL
February 11th, 2010
7:53 am
My comment evaporated as well Theresa.
Jeff
February 11th, 2010
7:59 am
My little girl is 7 and I’m taking her out to dinner, dressup and all. That is, assuming her mom, the ex cooperates. I know, gotta pay for past decisions! :)
RJ
February 11th, 2010
8:01 am
Theresa, I so miss those days! Since my son is now in the 6th grade, no more Valentine’s day cards and candies (other than what he’s giving to friends). I remember my daughter’s 5th grade class having a Valentine’s Day box decorating contest. She was so excited! Today she took lollips to school for her friends in high school. Funny how they still enjoy the simple things.
I always get my kids something for Valentine’s Day. Usually my daughter gets one of those cute shirts at Old Navy. I can normally get them for about $5. I give my son a shirt, boxers or just candy. This year I’m thinking of doing something a little different but I don’t know what that will be. I like the idea of heart shaped pancakes.
RJ
February 11th, 2010
8:04 am
Oh, I’m surprising my hubby by taking him out to brunch Sunday after church. The kids will go straight to the grandparents house! It’s a restaurant that I’ve been wanting to take him to.
Photius
February 11th, 2010
8:10 am
I teach my kids a bit of truth: Valentine’s Day is a conspiracy by the card and floral industry to drum up sales and its entirely focused around the woman. Just because you give your special someone flowers or a gift on February 14th means nothing; doing something out of the blue for no reason other than love means more. Teach your children not to fall prey into these BS days of celebration so the machine can manipulate you for money.
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
8:11 am
I’ll find the other comments as soon as I get on the box —- I’m pretty sure I have strep throat so I’m not super thrilled about taking in ice creams to the classes. I had planned the first grade class because I’m the room mom and nobody else volunteered. I was trying to choose the easiest thing — taking in ice cream and toppings is easier than baking the cookies or cupcakes.Also no allergy concerns — we have a peanut/egg allergy in class to worry about and I hate for the child not to eat what everyone else does. I got a call from my daughter’s class room mom saying she needed help. I told her I had a 5-quart jug of ice cream and a big ole thing of chocolate syrup. so now I’m going to both classes. In mentioning it I was trying to describe how the kids were celebrating at school — I do ask that in my end.
motherjanegoose
February 11th, 2010
8:20 am
T…if you have strep throat you probably do not need to be touching any food that will be touched by students….just my opinion and I may be the only one who thinks this. You may need to stay at home. Nurse&Mother? If you are pretty sure then I imagine you have not yet been diagnosed by the Doctor and have been taking antibiotics for at least 24 hours…are you still contagious?
Not on topic but I thought of you when I passed the Progressive Lighting Outlet store off of I85 and Houschton ( sp?) Ga yesterday. Just a tip for anyone who may be interested in a good price….or not…..I did not know it was there.
BShepCarlin
February 11th, 2010
8:34 am
hey..if you have an egg allergy be careful which ice cream you pick…some contain egg. Good luck and get well.
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
8:35 am
I’m trying to get a strep test today to be sure just for that — I did check the ice cream and it just said milk allergy warning so I think I’m safe — I’m going to email the mom and list off what I have to make sure she’s cool — thanks for the warning on the eggs though
MomsRule
February 11th, 2010
8:36 am
We are not really into V Day so hubby and I don’t typically exchange gifts or do anything out of the ordinary. I prefer demonstrations of love “just because” not because the calendar says “it’s time.” We may go out for date night but we would be doing that anyway so we have nothing specifically planned for Valentine’s.
Re the kids, I’ve always given them a box of chocolates. My oldest doesn’t do anything at school and the youngest is not interested. This year and last year the youngest has had the option of bringing cards/candy (if you chose to bring you must bring for the entire class). They don’t have an official party/celebration but they do make time for the exchanging of Valentine’s. For whatever reason he does not want to participate.
Becky
February 11th, 2010
8:36 am
My husband is always in Daytona for V’s Day..Has been for the last 16 years.I usually just get a card as does he..I will probably take the grandbabies out to an early dinner and give tehm a small box of chocolates..We don’t go overboard on it..They do cards at school and church..
@Jeff..Hoping that the ex will let you do that..Little girls love (IMO) doing that kind of stuff with Daddy.I know that mine loves it when Poppy does things like this with her..
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
8:44 am
this is what I want for V-Day day — SNOW and the ability not to go anywhere!!!!!From the snow story on the front page —-
The Weather Service said early Thursday that a low-pressure system developing over the Gulf of Mexico should give metro Atlanta a 60 percent chance of snow on Friday.
“It is not a question of whether we will see winter weather — basically snow — across most, if not all of [north and central Georgia], but rather a question of how much,” the Weather Service said.
Forecasters said accumulations of 1 to 2 inches of snow are possible across north and central Georgia by the time the snow ends Friday night, with the greatest accumulations from Atlanta to Athens southward to the Columbus and Macon areas.
DB
February 11th, 2010
8:52 am
My dad would always give my mom the Whitman Sampler box of candy, and I would always get a smaller red heart-shaped box of candy. I always got my kids a funny card, maybe their favorite candy (conversation hearts for the girl, heart-shaped Reese Cup for the boy), and I’d pull out the heart-shaped cupcake pan for Valentine Day morning muffins. That’s it for the kids.
For the hubby, we generally only exchange cards, and I fix a nice dinner. I hate going out on Valentine’s Day, because the restaurants are too crowded, the service is spotty, and it’s not as though he doesn’t take me out to eat quite a bit, anyway. Also, he gets a pass on flowers for Valentine’s Day, since he likes to bring me flowers “just because” throughout the year, and I see no reason for him to pay double just because it’s February 14th. Howeer, yesterday, he stopped by the office on his way out of town to deliver a dozen roses, “so you can enjoy them while I’m gone.” They are sitting on my desk, and yes, I am enjoying them tremendously! As for other celebration that day . . . well, are the details THAT important? ;-) Use your imagination — I certainly do!
Lori
February 11th, 2010
8:52 am
I wish I had your kind of time!!! Of course I celebrate with my son. I don’t think of Valentine’s Day as a day for couples, but also it’s a day to express your love for others. We don’t really go overboard though. A card and some candy, maybe a stuffed animal or something is about it.
FCM
February 11th, 2010
8:57 am
Like most things I do with the kids. I want low key, easy, relaxed, fun, where the memory is that we spent time together. That said, I am guilty of having planned a fondue for them for this weekend. Chocolate covered Strawberries, Marshmellows, etc. We have not done it in awhile and they enjoy it.
Chinese New Year happens to be Sunday as well. We were invited to join friends to celebrate that and we will.
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
9:04 am
I saw some great recipes for the Chinese New Year! I think mine will like dipping the strawberries.
I guess it was four years ago when the Olympics were in Salt Lake City (was that 4?) Michael had been sent to cover the Olympics for the entire month of Feb. He sent a giant bouquet of roses to me and then also another dozen to Rose. We both loved them.
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
9:07 am
Lilina did end up with a decorated diaper wipe box for her Valentines. the flip top is actually nice. Walsh made a Mario Cart Valentine’s box — do you see a theme?
Amen....
February 11th, 2010
9:17 am
Lori..Thank you for saying it’s not just for couples..I have a coworker that has read me every single thing that her daughter has posted on her FB page, saying how much she hates Valentines Day..She’s 20 and has never had a boyfriend and it is about to drive me crazy..This is why we are teaching our two little ones that it’s about love for everyone..
Salt Lake Olympics was 2002...
February 11th, 2010
9:23 am
…my how time flies….
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
9:30 am
thank you!!
cld
February 11th, 2010
10:05 am
I agree, too, that V-Day isn’t just for lovers. It is showing our sentiment to those we love. There are very different playing fields and ways of celebrating, but acknowledging none-the-less. Growing up, we (kids) usually got some kind of candy from our parents (aka Mom). And Mom would make a nicer-than-normal dinner with dessert (we only had dessert on special occasions).
That’s pretty much how DH and I celebrate now. A nicer-than-normal dinner at home, cards and normally some new lingerie (as noted on the VS topic). Our son’s daycare class has a party Friday afternoon. Since he normally stays home with me on Fridays, I will take him in for the party and am bringing strawberries with Cool Whip (they are toddlers – I didn’t think strawberries were very toddler-friendly, but it was the teacher’s request) and plain Elmo valentines. We sent flowers for the daycare directors (from our son), which are being delivered today.
I also had him color V-Day themed pictures to send to his aunts, uncles, grandparents and great-grandparents.
Nothing extravagant at our house.
JJ
February 11th, 2010
10:07 am
I don’t need one commercial day out of the year to tell people I love them. I do it every day. I tell my mother I love her every time I talk to her, same for my brother, daughter and nieces.
There’s a lot of love in my world and I don’t need cards and flowers to show/know it.
TechMom
February 11th, 2010
10:15 am
Wow, definitely a lot of planning for a “Hallmark Holiday” as we call them in our house. My son is in HS but it’s a good excuse for the kids to bring candy to school so he’s got a big bag to hand out (no special girl but a lot of friends). Some of the girls in his class still hand out the kiddie Valentines. I tried to talk my son into getting the Toy Story ones at Target since it was his favorite movie growing up! He of course just rolled his eyes at me! His school is doing a ‘dessert table’ at lunch for the high schoolers (yes, he goes to a private school) so I’m sending in cupcakes.
We try not to make big deals out of these holidays. I hate crowded restraraunts and jacked-up prices on flowers so we usually try to go out on a date night a different weekend and I like surprise flowers much more (seriously, how much thought goes into buying flowers for your wife/gf when you walk into every store and there’s a big display right in front of you?) Since we aren’t going out for dinner on Sunday, we’ll probably have something nicer than normal at home (no Hamburger Helper) but certainly nothing extravagent.
s
February 11th, 2010
10:20 am
We just bought a bag of suckers that had a place to address the wrapper. My first grade son addressed them using a sharpie. Thats it.
I will buy him a gift this weekend.
Amen....
February 11th, 2010
10:31 am
@TechMom..I’m with you on the flower markup..I would much rather have surprise flowers over roses for Valentines Day..
LM
February 11th, 2010
10:31 am
I am heading out of town with a girlfriend for the weekend. She has been down lately, health and financial troubles, so I thought a girls weekend would be fun. I even asked her husband if it was okay before I asked her. My wonderful husband mentioned something about flowers a week ago, wanted to have the deliver to the place we will be staying but I told him it was not necessary. He sends flowers often, has them delivered to my office “just because”. He lets me know I am specail daily. Though he is away and I may not see him until August, he ask me if there is anything he can do to make things easier on me. He knows things have been difficult at work, my Mothers health issues, the pain I have been in and my upcomming surgery. Things he can’t control, and really can’t help with, but just knowing he understands and would like to help means so much to me.
My daughter will be celebrating Valentines in Ireland this year (school trip) so if I had not planned this weekend get-a-way, I would have been on my own. Just hope it does not snow too bad we can’t make the trip or get home Sunday.
ZachsMom
February 11th, 2010
10:38 am
My husband and I are spending Saturday night at a B&B in Helen with a heart shaped tub, fireplace and a bottle of wine.
JJ
February 11th, 2010
10:38 am
I much prefer something I can plant in the yard, as opposed to flowers in a vase that will die in a week. Total waste of money. Give me a pack of seeds and I’ll make flowers grow in the yard.
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
10:40 am
@Zachs Mom…..I’m with you. How do I spend V-day with my kid? By getting him a sitter on Saturday night and going out to a nice dinner with my wife.
cld
February 11th, 2010
10:41 am
Haha, @JJ – I wish I could get flowers to grow in my yard! It seems the hyacinths and vincas are about the only things I can plant that won’t be eaten by the deer/rabbits before I get to enjoy them. I have a garden of daylilies . . . it wasn’t until our third summer in our house, that I actually got to see one bloom. The first two years, the deer got to them before the buds opened! And don’t even get me started on the rabbits who dug up my tulips . . .
HB
February 11th, 2010
10:42 am
I think Theresa’s celebration sounds nice and not overblown. A special breakfast and dinner (it’s lasgana, people — she’s not cooking a Thanksgiving feast!) will make for a nice, cozy family day at home. For little gifts, does Rose have long hair? Would she enjoy a fancy hairbow or two (like those made with colored shoestrings or loopy grosgrain)? Pink or red suits the occasion without being something that can only be worn for the day.
As for snow, I live just outside DC and had completely forgotten Valentine’s was this week after being pretty much snowed in since Saturday. The days have blurred together (today’s Tursday, right?). So if you get that snow you’re hoping for Theresa, my wish for you is that it’s only a fun few inches. :)
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
10:50 am
@MJG…don’t worry about the only child thing. When his mother and I made the decision to not have more we realized we had to take into considerations the issues that come with being and having an only child. He did start school this last year and mid way through his teacher asked if he was an only child….my heart sank until she said “I would have never guessed that.” So far so good, but he’s definitely a work in progress.
JJ
February 11th, 2010
10:53 am
cld – if you take the hair out of your hairbrush, and put it around your garden, the rabbits will stay out. They smell human, and don’t go near it.
Also, Marigolds will keep insects away. Nature’s natural repellant. I put a border of marigolds around my veggies……
s
February 11th, 2010
10:56 am
I don’t think I want snow anymore. I am so tired of this winter. This is the worst case of Seasonal Affective Disorder I’ve ever had. I don’t remember a winter prior to this that it stayed cold this long. Usually, we have a cold snap that lasts a week and then a nice week. I know I golfed a ton last winter, this winter, only once. I think I am getting rickets from the lack of sunshine. I am ready for the time to change back and for nice warm weather!
In my mind I am wearing shorts and playing in the grass at a nice summer outdoor concert!
cld
February 11th, 2010
10:58 am
Thanks, JJ! I used a different form of human scent one year, on the advice of my husband’s grandmother. (It worked great, but most would be horrified – and I wouldn’t use it near edible plants!) Last year, I used some sliced Irish Spring which lasted most of the summer. As the blooms were fading, the rabbits finally got them. I’ll have to try hair also – I’ve got plenty of that!
Becky
February 11th, 2010
11:11 am
@cld..According to my sister that gardens a lot..She said that if you have a fence around your garden, if you stagger the heights of the posts, the deer will not bother it..She learned this from a tour at Mt. Vernon..I do not have a green thumb, so I really don’t know if this works or not..Good luck..
samlee
February 11th, 2010
11:12 am
When my children were at home, they always had a special Valentine breakfast with a card and gift by their place. Now I send Valentine cards to all of them and the grands. I bake Valentine cookies for all of my students at school. High schoolers love a treat and to be remembered for something special. Valentine’s Day isn’t just for lovers, it is a day to tell others we love and care for them.
Julia
February 11th, 2010
11:26 am
I go a little mushy with Jacob but he appreciates it.. We have church on sunday with a icecream social after the evening service.. but I will get him a little box of candy and he will want to do this hole in ones with heart shapes :)
Lady Strange
February 11th, 2010
11:57 am
I doubt I will do anything this year since my son is only 2. I’d be happy just to get a hug from my boy, he gives the best hugs.
jd
February 11th, 2010
12:13 pm
My girls are both a little old for doing anything at school but I always pick up a card & stuffed animal for them. As for me and the hubby, we’ll be having some friends over for steaks and playing electronic monopoly in front of the fireplace. Oh, and a cooler of Miller Lite by our side :)
jd
February 11th, 2010
12:15 pm
Oh and Theresa, just go by your local shoe store and they’ll give you the boxes you need.
Katie
February 11th, 2010
12:19 pm
we normally get the kids some candy, a balloon and sometimes a book…nothing fancy, but they love it!
just had S.’s class party – heart shaped waffles, cheese sticks, grapes, chex mix, cookies, bingo, graphing, and craft………it was fun! now none of the kids will eat lunch, but oh well we gave them some nutrition ..LOL!
snow is fine this weekend, just make the roads ok, in case i go into labor! oh, and i had S. do all her Valentines last week, just in case I was in the hospital..so we didnt have the tuesday night v-day card fest :)
Why do people...
February 11th, 2010
12:23 pm
…think that beer or wine adds to the party? Can we not just enjoy for enjoyments sake? And if you do enjoy libations, why tell everyone?
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
12:25 pm
I do have strep throat — not surprising since two of the kids had it in the last two weeks. Nurse practitioner said I was OK to serve food after noon tomorrow — 24 hours on the antibiotics — so for Rose’s class I’ll just bring the food and not serve.
ABC
February 11th, 2010
12:26 pm
@ Lady Strange, a 2-year-old would certainly enjoy a small valentine. My parents sent our son a small “Elmo Loves You” board book on the V-Day when he was 2, and he still pulls it out close to Valentine’s Day to read it…5 years later. He also has a Winnie the Pooh Valentine’s book in the shape of a heart that has also been pulled for season-appropriate reading. Very sweet to see these cute things from toddlerhood still bring joy to him.
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
12:26 pm
JD — wish I had known that!!!! going through closets like a crazy woman
I did pick up some comic books for the kids — old Disney ones — now I’m thinking they’re too valuable to give them — a couple from the 1950s –
ZachsMom
February 11th, 2010
12:29 pm
@ Tiger I don’t want people to think I am ignoring Zach though…..he will get a large bag of M &M’s, $$ for pizza delivery and the movie of his choice (almost his choice) and Sunday evening he will have a happy and relaxed mom.
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
12:34 pm
@ZachsMom….you’re preaching to the choir here!
jd
February 11th, 2010
12:42 pm
@why do people – judge others so freely? And it has nothing to do with VD. I have beer on ice every day!!!
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
12:45 pm
@why do people…I agree with you Beer and Wine don’t add to party. Getting about a 3-4 tall Crown and Cokes deep…that’s what makes it a party.
Becky
February 11th, 2010
12:54 pm
@Tiger..Crown Royal, another reason that I like you..Of course, back in the day when I did drink, I mixed it with Sprite..Those days of drinking are long gone for me though..
cld
February 11th, 2010
1:02 pm
@ Lady Strange, I’m doing valentine’s cards for my toddler (20 months) and his daycare class. All week, he’s been playing with the leftover Elmo cards. I know at least half his class loves anything Elmo . . . at the Christmas (ahem – holiday) party, they did a boox exchange. All the kids were uber-excited by Elmo, and about 1/3 of the books exchanged were of him. So I thought they’d all enjoy a little Elmo picture to play with.
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
1:03 pm
@Becky…its the nectar of the GODS, I tell you!
jd
February 11th, 2010
1:03 pm
LOL tiger!! I could use one right now :)
jd
February 11th, 2010
1:05 pm
Theresa, I love the diet cherry 7-up but have a hard time finding it. Do they carry the diet where you shop or just regular?
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
1:06 pm
@jd…well it is Friday Eve, right? That’s a good enough excuse for me….you lucky devils on EST get to happy hour TWO full hours before I do!
Erin
February 11th, 2010
1:11 pm
My dad used to get little Dove chocolate promise hearts in different colors and put a bit of tape on the back and stick them all over the house. They have cute little sentences when you open them up. Colors can divy them up, they’re partially hidden so they’re surprises during the day…
Perhaps some would prefer less candy oriented options; I imagine similar would work with small plastic flowers or those little fuzzy pencil top sized teddy bears.
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
1:14 pm
jd – I picked it up at Publix — I don’t know if all carry it but I’ve found it there multiple times. the kids think it’s pretty!
JJ
February 11th, 2010
1:23 pm
I cannot stand diet drinks. They are so nasty and so bad for you, as are the regular ones too. Stick with water…….it’s THE best stuff and so much better for you. Your skin and your innards will thank you in the long run.
jd
February 11th, 2010
1:27 pm
Tiger, Friday Eve sounds like a good reason for me but then again, happy hour comes every day and I’ll sure throw ya a toast about 5:30 EST okay. Thank Theresa, that must be the one place the hubby didn’t try yesterday. He said he went to three different stores. I’m litterally carrying a 2 liter from home to work and back home every day because we can’t find the 12 packs.
cld
February 11th, 2010
1:28 pm
@JJ – I gave up soda one year for lent (10-15 years ago). By the time Easter came around, I couldn’t stand carbonation. To this day, I can handle a small amount (8 oz. tops), and only drink it a few times per year. I probably could count on one hand, my annual 8-oz. glasses of carbonation. I’m a big water drinker, too. I just thought it was funny how quickly my body turned against it.
jd
February 11th, 2010
1:29 pm
JJ – the diet cherry has antioxidants that are actually good for you and you would never know it’s diet. I like water occasionally but can’t stand it in the AM. It feels like it sloshes around on an empty stomach and I’m not a breakfast person.
JJ
February 11th, 2010
1:33 pm
The antioxidants may be good for you, but the artifical sweeteners are NOT.
Nothing good comes out of a can…….except beer.
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
1:44 pm
@JJ…and those snakes puppets with coils in them that scare the bejeezus out of 5 year olds! Those still crack me up.
JJ
February 11th, 2010
1:56 pm
ha ha ha ha ha ha….me too Tiger!!!
jd
February 11th, 2010
2:05 pm
Well I’m good then cause I have a 2 liter plastic bottle……any I only drink bottle beer :)
SRH
February 11th, 2010
2:12 pm
Theresa, you remind me so much of my sister – she always goes way overboard but then has to tell everyone how hard things were to get done. She made my older sister (who is really obese) 50 mini pumpkin pies for her birthday last year, and of course mentioned how tiring it was. Christmas is even worse: cleaning the house all night for guests, cooking for hours on end, making cookies for an entire class… sound familiar? Why do all this if it “annoys” you? Obviously your blog is intended to share things with moms (and dads) but it seems like it is always about how much work you do for others, and how hard it is to be the only one who does everything. And please stop berating your husband. One day you are saying you don’t trust him with parent-teacher, next you are wondering why ads are so sexist and make men look dumb. You do that so often with regard to your husband. You seem to thrive the spotlight and the “poor me” attitude.
jd
February 11th, 2010
2:23 pm
SRH – I don’t think she was complaining. Wish I had half her energy!
ABC
February 11th, 2010
2:24 pm
What @ SRH said. I used to like this blog, but it seems the topics are just not as compelling to a general audience. If you don’t have a kid in Boy Scouts, one in preschool or anything else from Theresa’s life, well it’s hard to relate. If this were more of a general parenting type of blog rather than often focusing on what SRH is talking about above, I might actually read it more often.
Michelle
February 11th, 2010
2:32 pm
T-my first post is in cyber jail! LOL!
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
2:39 pm
Do people really submit thoughts on this blog to address Theresa’s topic? Really?
I’ll admit, I usually just skip Theresa’s thoughts altogether so that I can get straight to attempting to tear apart the particularly elitist and hypocrital posts I read!
I’m going to have to start reading Theresa’s opening thoughts!
SRH
February 11th, 2010
2:41 pm
@JD – she was. She said she was annoyed. At Christmas she went on and on and on about how long it took her to make hand-cut snowflakes for the class, when one can easily pick them up at Michael’s. Honestly, I can hear a violin playing sometimes. It seems like she rates her mothering level on how much time she spends to impress. If no one notices, it is like the world collapsed.
JJ
February 11th, 2010
2:49 pm
@srh – do you want to try doing this every day? and coming up with topics every day??????
SRH
February 11th, 2010
2:55 pm
No, but I would not take on the role of martyr. There is some good advice from the readers and that’s why I do partake. I can tell you that in my job (I work from home as well) I do not berate my family or say how hard things are. I just do my work.
JJ, isn't it about time...
February 11th, 2010
2:58 pm
…for you to tell us how fed up you are with these responses and say that you are “outta here” – for the third time????
ya mama
February 11th, 2010
3:03 pm
Diet coke is not nasty. It is wonderful. Could not start my morning without it. Yeah, like beer is so much better for you.
Wounded Warrior
February 11th, 2010
3:08 pm
I make my kids heart shaped pancakes and hot chocolate. They also get to bake cookies and we cook together. I enjoy this time with my daughters. Single…so I don’t get all bent out of shape about it.
jd
February 11th, 2010
3:12 pm
She also said she was sick and room mother so that could be part of the distress you’re reading into her blog. I remember when my girls we’re her kids age and I felt the same way at times. Now I long for those days because believe me, if I tried to write something about day to day life with 2 teenage girls, it would come accross as bitching every day.
SRH
February 11th, 2010
3:12 pm
@wounded warrior – now that sounds like a nice time – really, and they will love the time with you :)
jd
February 11th, 2010
3:14 pm
Tiger – it’s Friday for me…..I won’t forget the solute!
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
3:25 pm
make it a double JD!
SRH
February 11th, 2010
3:26 pm
White wine, not Chardonnay, or a smoothie (Kalhua/Bailey’s). Cheers
Becky
February 11th, 2010
3:36 pm
@SRH..She said a little annoyed..I get a little annoyed over some things every day, you don’t? I get a little annoyed when people come on here and gripe about what Theresas topic of the day is..Yes, there are things that she writes about that don’t mean anything to me, but I don’t b*tch about it..She gets paid to write this blog and (IMO) she does a bang up job..As for some of the “drama” on her part, it’s also part of her job..So, please relax and post something nice..
pj
February 11th, 2010
4:19 pm
Erin, that is so sweet what your dad did!
Years ago, my daughter was at Montessori School. They weren’t allowed to bring store-bought valentines. I enjoyed making her box and valentines with her. She is 26 and still has the box, and I just had my 12th + (lost track) annual Valentine Decorating Party, which got started because of her all those years ago. My girlfriends get together for fun and all bring craft materials and make valentines for our kids and for special someones if we have them (a couple of us make valentines for ourselves too – self love is important too). This year everyone was especially creative. Sometimes we all make something along a theme, like decorated coffee cans, but this year everyone made something different, and they were all wonderful (including a mobile made with red and white electric wire and animals made from sculpy clay.) It is great fun. I don’t think “doing it up” for the holidays is going overboard. There are only a few a year, and I enjoy giving my 4 kids the best of everything I can find for those holidays in a goodie bag. Last year I got bags and boxes for about nothing on the after-Val. sale. The kids (3 girls, one boy, two “grown”) always get some candy and a gift. Since all my girls are older, they got pretty bras and underwear which I “wrapped” in the Val. boxes and bags. My son gets one of those coupon books they schools sell – he is on a pretty tight budget and this way he can take his girlfriend or a friend out on the cheap. I LOVE doing this for each holiday; it’s quite a tradition, and my friends admire it too. I would do it for my significant other if I had one. I love giving gifts! Last year my eldest said she was wondering when I would quit sending her an Easter “basket”; she got one that year. She lives in Portland, OR, so I enjoy any reason I can think of to send her a package. Valentine’s day is about LOVE, and that’s what I put into it. If you feel obligated or don’t enjoy it, it’s not worth doing.
motherjanegoose
February 11th, 2010
4:39 pm
Had a fun day with the Kinders today!
I see you guys can get all over each other even when I am not here…LOL.
I am thrilled that I was competent enough to remember that it is usually 24 hours taking antibiotics before they consider step throat non contagious ( my morning post) and that Theresa’s nurse also mentioned the 24 hours. Gee, maybe I am not to old to recall some things….LOL.
I hope you feel better Theresa…I used to get strep throat nearly every year when I taught. Once, I had Gutate Psoriasis ( sp?) which is a terrible rash that is linked to having strep throat in your system. I went to my doctor several times and then I was sent to a dermatologist who did a skin scape and sent it to the lab. NOT FUN STUFF.
@ Becky…I am so with you on those who gripe about Theresa’s topic. Who cares if anyone does not like the topic? There are days I am not interested either but I try to use my manners . I do not spew rudeness as Theresa is the one who has been writing this column for years and must be doing something right….eh?
@ tiger…see, you are doing a GREAT job with your son if a teacher shared that compliment with you!
Have a nice weekend all!
TechMom
February 11th, 2010
5:00 pm
It’s my opinion that in order to write interesting stuff, you have be passionate, and in order to be passionate, you tend to show some kind of emotion about it. Think about it, would you want to write about something you didn’t care about? And don’t you think your readers would see/feel your lack of passion about it and therefore not respond? Most people respond to the topics because either they feel the same way (and therefore want to defend Theresa’s position) or they feel opposite and are astonished anyone could feel any different than they. Life is full of ‘drama’ but what may be drama to one person isn’t drama to another.
I appreciate Theresa’s openness about her life and not wanting to cover up how annoyed she is at some things. I volunteer a lot and I consequently complain about it a lot. Why? Not because I don’t want or like to volunteer but because I get frustrated with certain things or people that have to deal with in the process and sometimes I like to vent about it and get some empathy from someone else who feels the same way! (Misery loves company, right?)
Becky
February 11th, 2010
5:03 pm
@TechMom..I’ll drink to that..
Tiger needs me on his PR team
February 11th, 2010
5:09 pm
@becky…crown?
motherjanegoose
February 11th, 2010
5:42 pm
@ Tech Mom…those were such good points.
Since I write for a living ( ’tis true) and then also share what I write with teachers I can agree with the passion point.
I have some lovely Jewish clients who have hired me to share presentations with their teachers several times. They are dear people and I always enjoy being with them!
Once, they asked me why I did not have any children’s songs that went with Jewish holidays. Well, probably because I do not know enough about them to write something intelligent. So, I have done a bit of research and am able to come up with a FEW things but I am not passionate about those holidays as I am only an observer from the outside. I do not think my ideas would hold a candle to those who have a personal relationship with the holidays and celebrate them regularly.
To me, MOMANIA is about topics that relate mostly to being a MOM and also perhaps being a DAD, as that is also called being a parent, Since I am an old Mom, I may not understand some of the things that younger Moms are handling and the reverse could also be said to be true.
I never have understood those who are neither Moms, Dads nor parents hanging around here but that is certainly MY opinion. Kind of like me staying with a blog for those who drive convertibles…yes I have seen many but have never driven a single one! Or maybe you whining about volunteering when you have never done so…you just know folks who do it.
To just say : yawn, dumb topic, outta here or whatever” to Theresa, is kinda like saying
“yuck, you are eating SUSHI?” Yeah, well, someone must be eating it, just as some are reading Theresa’s topics and probably hundreds more are reading and have never even commented one time!
Now that is intriguing to me….reading all the time and never chiming in….you know that would not fly in my world!
motherjanegoose
February 11th, 2010
5:49 pm
@ Becky…to me, you are a parent and also a wonderful Granny….LOL! Hugs to you!
Tiffany
February 11th, 2010
7:09 pm
Valentine’s Day is not just for couples. It is a day to show those you love that you care about them. Kids love getting things, too…I have always gotten mine a card, candy and usually a small gift. For those of you who like to bash Theresa for her skills as room mom…I can tell you that it is because of moms like Theresa that our kids are able to have fun and enjoyable parties that they WILL remember long after they are grown. At some schools, nobody will even volunteer for these types of things…and to have a mom who actually volunteers and goes the extra mile is something to be admired and appreciated. Believe me, I know what it is like to be the only one to sign up for room mom, and to have all that responsibility. It is a LOT of work but I know that I do it because I love my child and ALL of the kids in the class and want them to have a memorable day. I end up having as much fun as the kids…Parents please THANK your kids room moms…(or dads if that is the case)…it will make their day! To Theresa- you keep up the good work!
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
7:22 pm
if I said diet on the 7 up I meant regular cherry 7- up — I wouldn’t give the kids diet.
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
7:22 pm
thanks Tiffany — I appreciate that!!
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
February 11th, 2010
7:48 pm
Tiger — I am hurt you don’t actually read what I write — I feel certain you the read the bra entry though!!!
HB
February 11th, 2010
7:52 pm
“I never have understood those who are neither Moms, Dads nor parents hanging around here but that is certainly MY opinion.”
I think I can explain. Theresa does a great job of posting a wide range of topics that have shown to be of interest to parents of children young and grown, to aunts and uncles close to their siblings’ little ones, to people who have worked closely with children and families on a regular basis, and even those who just remember their own experiences in childhood and their own parents’ practices. I commend her ability to spark interesting conversations across this broad group of people everyday.
irisheyes
February 11th, 2010
9:21 pm
You all are going to think I’m the meanest person here, but I was going to bake cupcakes for my class for tomorrow, and I decided not to. They’ve had one of those weeks, and even with warnings that they were going to lose the cupcakes, they have still been off the wall. I’m letting them decorate bags and pass out valentines. Unfortunately, there won’t be a big party in our room.
I’m not doing much here either. My husband and I are ordering out tomorrow, and I may make something special Sunday, but I have to be at church until 12:30, so we’ll see. My kids would love it if I brought McDonald’s home. That’s a big treat to them. We’ve never gone big with holidays here. With boys, they just don’t into it as much.
irisheyes
February 11th, 2010
9:21 pm
OK, last line should read “they just don’t get into it as much”!
Becky
February 12th, 2010
8:24 am
@Tiger..OF course crown..Is there anything else?
@MJG..Thank you..I’ll admit, I’m 48 and ther are still a lot of things that learn every day about kids..I know that I’ve said it before, but I really think that life is way to short to think that you know everything..I hope that I never get to old to learn something new..
JJ
February 12th, 2010
8:24 am
I’ll be taking my mom out for Valentine’s day lunch.
Becky
February 12th, 2010
9:03 am
I took my 2 out for Valentines dinner last night..They are going to stay home with their paretnts this weekend..We had a great time, I took them to Toyko steak house in Douglasville..
Annie
February 12th, 2010
10:19 am
Theresa, are you listening to yourself? You’re forcing your kids to write valentines? You really need to take things down several notches! I understand going overboard for big holiday (Christmas, Thanksgiving) but for a run of the mill hallmark holiday?!
All this unnecessary extra stress you’re putting on yourself is probably the reason you’re sick again. Why not pack it all in, get a sitter and enjoy valentines with your hubby and let the kids worry about it at a later date, if they so wish?
Lady Strange
February 12th, 2010
1:24 pm
I suppose I could get some of the kid cards for my son to make one for his daddy and grandmoms. I’m sure he would enjoy “writing” on them. LOL
irisheyes
February 12th, 2010
1:33 pm
@Annie, I think the Valentines were for passing out at school. It’s not really as abusive as it sounds. They write the child’s name and their own name on a card. My two (7 & 6) did it last night. Took them about 20 minutes or so. (We didn’t tape candy. I figure there will be enough candy passed out.)
Annie
February 12th, 2010
1:59 pm
@ Irisheyes – Did you have to force your kids to do it too or were they willing to do it? I’m not saying that it sounded abusive, I simply meant it sounds like Theresa’s kids just aren’t into it if she had to force them to write them. It’s just a plastic holiday, why force the kids to partake in it if they don’t want to?
mom of three precious kids
February 12th, 2010
3:30 pm
@annie, Children usually like giving and receiving valentine cards. My own daughter did it wed night with my help. She is four and we use this time to practice on writing skills. She loves this. As for my hubby and I, we usually don’t do much. But this year i have something special planned i know he will love.
irisheyes
February 12th, 2010
6:19 pm
@Annie, were they crazy about it? No. But I believe in giving and receiving Valentines, so they had to do it. I had a couple of kids in my class today who didn’t have Valentines to pass out, and you could see the sadness on their faces. Sometimes, you make your kids do things they don’t want to do. Again, it took a total of 20 minutes, so I doubt my kids (or anyone else’s) will be scarred for life. Kids are a lot tougher than we give them credit for.
daniel
February 13th, 2010
7:47 am
i know with my kids i usually have them go to http://www.munchiessweetsandtreats.com and pic out valentine candy for other family members
jan
February 13th, 2010
9:25 am
you need a life with your husband
newblogger
February 13th, 2010
8:53 pm
I don’t get a chance to check the blog very often, but when I do I enjoy reading what Theresa has to say. If you find her so annoying, why are you still here? About Valentine’s Day- to me it’s the same as all other holidays/celebrations…we should show how much we love people every day but Valentine’s Day is a day set aside to celebrate it. Independence Day-we should be patriotic every day but that day is set aside to celebrate it. Thanksgiving-we should be thankful every day but we have a day set aside to celebrate it. You get the idea. Why are some people so angry?
FCM
February 14th, 2010
11:40 am
Made doughnuts for breakfast. The kids were so excite and declared me their Valentine….LOL. At 10 & 8 the days for that are numbered. I have a treat for them for later too. Again, low key and simple. Letting them know I am glad to be their Momma, since I am glad! They are the best. Their grandparents (his) sent them a valentine, stickers, and some plastic jewelry. They were thrilled. I am sure my parents have something for them too. I still have he ceramic figures my Mom gave my brother and I years ago. They are undoubtedly “cheapies” and definately corny (”I give a hoot for you” on the Owl) but they are left over from my own childhood. My brother doesn’t get sentimental like that.
On a better note, my good friend went to Chinese New Year with us last night. Another friend of the Hosts was there, we had met him several times. My friend has toyed about a million times with how she can get this fellows attention. Last night he asked for her digits! See that little spark can happen anytime (she is 43) especially when your not expecting it.
Happy Valentine’s! Spend with someone you love: spouse, kid, friend, parent, or pet.
PattiK
February 14th, 2010
1:45 pm
We have decided to treat our gang to a super fancy dinner. Served by Mom and Dad. They normally treat us to excellent service all throughout the year by dressing up and setting the table with candles and cooking up great food, appetizers to desserts. The love to play restaurant, and they are excellent in the kitchen.
We are always surprised by their generosity, so we are going to surprise them with their own candle light dinner. Then, a goofy movie with popcorn and soda.
Its their turn to be our valentines.