I still remember when my sister and her now husband were dating, and for one of their Valentines Day dates was an enexpensive sit down dinner and then come back to our home and have conversation over a movie. I decided that I wanted to do something sweet for them and help them be able to have a little something extra on their Valentines Day, so I made homemade peanut butter cups, cut up cute V-Day decorations and put them on the coffee table in the living room. They loved the surprise and found the very inexpensive decorations a delightful treat! I found out that a few minutes of construction paper creativity and some extra ingredients around the house can make for an extra special Valentines Day for next to nothing!

Darcy Chambers February 11 2010 9:49 AM

Our church Senior High Youth Group is putting on a dinner and a comedy show as a fundraiser. $20 for dinner and Comedysportz show. We are taking three couples with us.

Kathryn Elsen February 10 2010 10:01 PM

Saw the cutest thing at our local coffee shop - 2 high school kids came in, all dressed up. Each was carrying a frozen dinner. They bought two lattes and asked if they could use the store's microwave to heat their meals. They whipped out a votive candle, lit it, and had their romantic tete-a-tete for about 4 bucks. Ain't love grand (and inexpensive)?

MeezerSqueezer February 10 2010 3:11 PM

We are starting Financial Peace University and our preview meeting is February 14!! What a way to spend Valentine's Day!!

Karen February 10 2010 10:02 AM

For laughs and interesting conversations with strangers, we get dressed up in our formal wear, grab the crystal candlesticks and some candles, and head to the Waffle House. It never fails everyone in the restaurant has talked to us by the end of the meal. We've even had people play love songs for us on the juke box. It's more fun and cheaper than a stuffy expensive restaurant.

Stephanie February 09 2010 1:53 PM

This is our first Valentines in 30 years that we are actually going to 'do' something...we're heading to my cousins to let the girls scrap while the guys hang out then cook for us at the end of an overnite scrap marathon! Ahhh, love. Family time is invaluable! I'm like an earlier poster, doing the little daily things is our Valentine to each other. XOXO SWAK!

Jannene February 03 2010 5:05 PM

Every valentines day I make a special supper of homemade heart shaped pizza (you just bake it in a heart shaped cake pan) and pink mashed potatoes (add a little red food coloring) the kids think it's great and it takes the pressure out of planning something big and expensive.

Frozenem February 03 2010 4:26 PM

I totally agree with all of Dave's points - however, being frugal in order to get debt free does give for some allowances. You can get "gift certificates" for restaurants at restaurant.com. If you hit it during a sale, you can get a $25 certificate for $2! Choose wisely and you've got a meal for 2 for only $10 out of pocket. In our house that is a splurge (I shoot for $5 per meal for a family of 3, but that's with cooking at home), but still not bad for 2 people to dine out! Seeing as we wouldn't be able to find someone to babysit our 3-year-old, we might pay about $15 for the 3 of us. Cheaper than fast food, and the romance starts after the baby goes to bed ;)

Dawn February 03 2010 1:23 AM

Great ideas! While we are investing in our future...it's important to remember to invest in our relationship as well. Hope you and your wife have a lovely Valentine's Day. I am hoping for good weather so we can enjoy a fun afternoon...maybe a picnic.

Jacqui February 01 2010 7:30 PM

We were gazelle intense as we worked on our debt snow ball. During that time my husband got the oprotunity to be a "temp" for our local florist. He delivered flowers for a week and made a bundle. Now that we are debt free,with a fully funded e-fund we go together on v-day to deliver flowers. We get to hang out in a car together all day smelling like 20 boquets- and it's so fun to see the lady's faces as we bring flowers to their door..... not to mention the $300 you can make in one day.

stacy February 01 2010 5:03 PM

We shop at The Dollar Tree where you can get 2 cards for $1 and many good books, puzzels, toys and candies all for $1. Enjoy and Happy Valentine's Day!

Donna February 01 2010 12:00 PM

My favorite example of a true Valentines gift are the homemade cards my Dad has given to my Mom for over 55 years - each proclaiming his undying love for her - some serious - some funny. When we were young my sisters and I thought they were a bit 'lame' but now we read them and are amazed at how precious they have become. Some had art work - some had poems - and some even used duct tape to keep 'pop-up' pieces in place! Every one is truly a treasure.

Diana February 01 2010 10:49 AM

This year we will continue our family tradition of homemade milkshakes. As a young family in seminary, we couldn't afford the traditional cards and candies for each other and the kids. It is a memory our two oldest still cherish. Now that we have grown to six and we still need to make a dollar stretch, we will continue the tradition, but this year we now have a blender and won't have to use our handheld mixer anymore! :0)

Lori Wilson February 01 2010 10:18 AM

This year we will spend Valentines Day with our 16 year old daughter at the state bowling tournament. Also, for those who love to take pictures you can get 3 free cards at Shutterfly.com but hurry as the offer expires tomorrow (2-2-10)

Jody February 01 2010 9:59 AM

Buy flowers a week or more BEFORE Valentines day. They are still appreciated and they run about 25% the cost of flowers during the week before Valentines Day.

Bret January 31 2010 10:34 PM

We got married as college students. We made a promise to each other that we wouldn't buy cards for one another. We had no money and knew that the card would tell each other we loved the other, or wish them a happy birthday. What we decided to do was to take the $3.00 we would have spent on a card (we are talking that was a lot of money in college when minimum was $2.75) and go to Dairy Queen and just sit and talk over our favorite treat. That way we got to spend the money doing our favorite thing, spending time with eachother. How can you beat that!

Sally Jo January 31 2010 7:53 PM

I don't worry about Valentines Day,, cause we have never in our 37 years of marriage celebrated it... to my husband it is just another day. Just think how much we have not spent..

cj January 31 2010 5:53 PM

Mrs. C. I hear your plea and understand. Being the parent of 5 (now grown) children I remember feeling overwhelmed and out of creative ideas to make special days "special". Not being a "Susie Homemaker" by nature I too looked for suggestions and helpful ideas from others to provide a "spark" to events. What I found looking back over the years is that as children get older they remember most that you were there and they were loved. I also found that giving them the opportunity to provide input into the event and then enlisting their creativity made it special for them. (You also find out which children have a gift for creativity and help them bloom in that area.) One suggestion: Pay the older children (can be in goods and services ex: a coupon book: for time alone with you; one on one go to the park time while the other parent is available to watch the other children, etc. not always money) to care for the younger children in another room while you and your spouse enjoy time alone in another secluded part of the house. That way you are close should anything get out of hand but you also get time apart together. It provides an opportunity for the older children to learn responsibility and earn rewards/pay. And when you feel like this time in your life will never end....find the precious moments to ponder as "... Mary pondered all these things in her heart." and remember that "this too shall pass." Something my dad would always tell me when I needed encouraged.

RJ January 31 2010 5:37 PM

Most inexpensive dates just take a little prep and some creativity! One year the kids and I put together a very easy dinner for them to "serve" to mom and dad at their "restaurant". I helped them plan a very easy menu (can soup, pre-made salads, lasagna from a box, etc.)things that the older kids (11 and up) could handle along with things the little ones could do. They made menus where you could choose your drink, salad dressing, maybe have 2 different types of bread and a drawing of the night's "special entree". The kids wore fancy clothes, made a sign for the door with the restaurants name.I still remember it! They came up with "little cheese" but it was in french and it sounded really good! Anyway, you get the idea, nice tablecloth, candles and cute little waiters and waitresses! They also like to decorate with teddy bears and such! I had to help them a lot but it was so sweet! And if dad has done his job right he'll have a small gift to give during the dessert course!

Jules January 31 2010 1:43 PM

Your cheap date ideas are great! I am dating a wonderful man and we take day road trips every Friday. Our recent excurtions have taken us on wonderful adventures. Recently we took a ferry to Whidbey Island here in Washington state. The drive was lovely and we stopped at a huge thrift shop that benefits seniors. Had a fun time rummaging around and finding wonderful bargains. Afterward we enjoyed a wonderful and very inexpensive crab cake lunch open to the public at the senior center before heading home.

Sayra January 31 2010 12:04 PM

My Valentine gift each year is to work for 1/2 day. I come home early and clean the house thoroughly. I change bed linen, light frangrance candles throughout, and some decor. Then I order Chinese (since by dinner time I am tired)and jazz it up with fresh colored fruits and veg. Instead of watching a movie from the library, this year we will watch the video of our wedding, after discovering my what hubby has up his sleeves. For me, that beats a going to restaurant any day.

Charity January 30 2010 11:15 PM

Our first year together, my husband got a great deal on pot of gold candy. I got ten boxes. He hid them all around the house with notes attached.

Freda January 30 2010 11:09 PM

Many years ago, I started making chocolate chip heart cookies one for everyone. I started out using foil shaped into hearts. Now i have a heart shaped cake mold. They love them and expect them now every year!

jm January 30 2010 9:46 PM

You HAVE to read The Five Love Languages and find out what your loved ones "love language" is. This makes ALL the difference ... trust me! Mine is Quality Time so anything that is attention toward me is going to make me feel loved. My husband's is "Acts of Service" so anything I do that feels like I am taking care of him - like cooking or putting his clothes away or even making his lunch to take to work - feels like love to him. The other ones are "Gifts" "Words of Affirmation" and "Physical Touch" Book is by Gary Chapman. You MUST know your loved ones "love language" to love them the way the NEED to be loved.

Gina January 30 2010 9:11 PM

Don't forget that you can get very inexpensive flowers from your local grocery store! The good thing is that in many cases, the flowers are actually of much better quality than what you'd ever get from a florist. And much less expensive!

Joanne January 30 2010 9:04 PM

As a florist, we always get slammed for the cost of roses this time of year. But don't forget, a Professional Florist should be able to offer you many alternative cost effective gift ideas that still bring you that "magical kiss". My favorite is a bunch of Tulips. They make a wonderful treat without breaking the bank. Check out your local flower shop's website or stop by to see if they are offering any "Order early/Deliver early" specials! You never know how much you can save if you order early! And there is nothing more romantic than leaving a single rose on a pillow or on a breakfast tray!

Karen Fountain January 30 2010 6:29 PM

For about 8years now, a close group of friends (3couples) have gotten together to celebrate valentines day at one couples home. We have all been married 20+ years and we decided it was such a waste to spend $100.00 or so on a dinner when we all cook, we all have homes as nice as any restaurant, especially when you dim the lights. We also like to linger over our wine not be rushed out as you would be on a busy Valentines Day. It has become a wonderful evening for us all. The cost is minimal and depends on what you want to serve.

jennifer January 30 2010 5:49 PM

Love all the inexpensive ideas! I've always cared more about making memories than I have about expensive gifts. It's nice to know Dave cares enough to want to help people in this way. Sometimes all we is a good suggestion! THANKS!...Amy

Amy Spencer January 30 2010 1:16 PM

Thanks Dave, for the sanity. MK

michael kelly January 30 2010 12:48 PM

When I was a young sailor stationed away from family/friends and didn't have a boy-friend, I use to buy myself flowers on the 15th, as a valetine to myself. A few years later God did send a wonderful man into my life, but I was so use to the idea of buying the 1/2 priced flowers, I wouldn't let him buy me flowers for the 14th, but I'd let him get them on the 15th. It helped us to remember he doesn't love me more one day then the next.

Z January 30 2010 11:56 AM

my cheap date is going to a valentines banquet/youth fund raiser at our church. we will get to see a renactment of the dating game, get a great meal all for $25.00 per couple. how do you beat that, as well as help the youth of the church.

charlie davis January 30 2010 9:11 AM

Before kids, we used to have "bed picnics" where we'd hunker down in bed with music or movies and a good meal (pizza, whatever). Now, we have 2 very active kids so we have our picnics in the living room. The entire living room floor is covered in blankets and pillows. We usually have most of the lights out and a candle or two lit. We play games, watch movies, my oldest- her favorite is to do a tandem story (each person adds their own part to the story). They are creative and fun and don't cost ANYTHING!

Whitney January 30 2010 8:20 AM

Since Valentines is on a Sunday - I'm going over and fix her breakfast before Church. I've written her the following poem - printed it with a blue script and put it in a matted cherry wood frame. Feel free to modify this poem and use it for your lady. The love I have for you is like a million stars glistening against the midnight sky. For years, I searched for you, wanting and hoping for your love. I dreamed of you each night as I layed there longing for your tender embrace. Its the kind of dream that caused me to wake up reaching for you. I've felt your kiss upon my lips and wondered if you longed for me as I have for you. I wanted to hear you say that you were searching for me too. Many years passed, while I waited patiently for God to bring you into my life. Sometimes, I almost gave up hope, yet, I knew I would find you. The day that we first met, I felt something special happening in my heart.. Deep down, I knew that you might be the one I've long for. I waited for such a long time that I almost gave up hope, then I found you. One thing that I'm certain of, is that you were worth the wait. Each day since, my love has grown for you, much more than you could ever know. My heart is filled with joy and my life is so complete. When we are apart, I miss you so much. I long for you and wish we never had to part. When we are reunited, my face beams with joy and my life is so blessed. Now, our hearts have become as one, bound together with undying love. Though you aren't my wife yet, my devotion will never fail. I love you so deeply that words alone can't tell you just how much you mean to me. With all that is in me, I give you all my love. Thank you for being my Sweetheart for you were made just for me. You, Darling, are my very own special Valentine.

Tim January 30 2010 7:51 AM

I make a Valentine's Day Tea lunch for my family. I make everything small and dainty. The children have "apple juice" tea poured from a real teapot and they use real china. I put some nice music on. Amd they all love and ask to do lunch "teas" all the time. This has become our family tradition.

Melisa January 30 2010 7:49 AM

A suggestion for moms with preschool and elementary age kids--have your kids collect their plush toys/puppets and practice acting out a favorite fairytale or folktale. Have your husband be in charge or dinner or dessert. Let the children make placecards with stamps or markers. Voila! You have dinner theater.

Diana January 30 2010 6:12 AM

Our favourite dates - breakfast on the beach (in the UK, its nearly always cold so we wrap up well and drink hot chocolate)- very invigorating! Walk in the woods Children to bed early, posh clothes on and then we make a lovely meal with candles and low lights Making a scrapbook of our last year together Hotdog, popcorn and movie night at home One of our best was a paper aeroplane night. Points awarded for best design but the best was which one could go the furthest! Pamper night - foot soak and pedicure, head and shoulder massage, hair treatment and face masks. We did each other and read old magazines to each other. Lots of ideas and cheap...the main point is to have fun, find ways to show you care and be open to try something you know your partner would love and is unknown (scary!) to you

John Nicholls January 30 2010 5:42 AM

My husband and I decided not to celebrate Valentine's Day (not even a card!)a long time ago. Every day we say to each other "Everyday is Valentine's Day". This simple act reminds us what a blessing we are to each other, and that the simple random acts of kindness is better than any planned or schedule day for flowers, candy, or even dinner.

Deb January 30 2010 1:09 AM

In Indianapolis, IN, all White Castle locations take dinner reservations (only for Valentine's Day). Guests get a cheap candlelit dinner and they actually get waited on by a server. You have to make your reservations way in advance because they get completely booked early.

Vicki Johnfauno Grant January 30 2010 1:03 AM

My husband will sometimes make my Valentine's cards (or other holidays) I like them better than the store bought ones because they tell me his exact thoughts, not those of someone else!

Beth January 29 2010 11:47 PM

For another cheap date night, me and my husband love to volunteer at our church for special musical events. As an example, our church hosts the Kansas City Pops Symphony series. We enjoy ushering and seating our friends and then we are allowed to sit and listen to the concert.

Debbie Goodin January 29 2010 11:44 PM

I love it when my husband makes his homemade spaghetti sauce for me, even if he doesn't make the whole meal, just THAT SAUCE! Yeah, I have five kids, so I love that sauce!

Rosebud January 29 2010 10:21 PM

10th Anniversary, broke again but still in love...He got his brother to babysit 3 small children. He took me to a lookout in a rock overhang of a beautiful Natural Park. He put out a card table, tablecloth, candles, and chinese takeout. We were enjoying the night view of city lights in the distance when we were joined by wildlife. A mother raccoon and her three babies. I fed them pieces of my egg rolls and tried to eat the dinner fast so they would leave. The baby raccoons stayed at my feet in the dark the entire dinner about an hour. I love animals. We promised each other we would pull through this bump in life and have better days. This was a fun romantic night. A photographer showed up to take a picture from the lookout of a fair in the distance and took a picture of us too. He sent it to us later with a wish for a Happy 10th Anniversary. A great night. Now we are married 32 years. Cheap dates are what we take most of the time because the memories are priceless!

Candy & Charlie Newton January 29 2010 9:59 PM

I ahve made a candle lit dinner since we were dating in 1982 and I ahve done it every year since. I also make a heart shaped cake with whip cream on cherries on it. I strated making asmall for my kids and now they look froward to recieving a heart shape cke. Sometime we will go to the dollar store and buy a small box of chocolates too. Everyone looks forward to thie special time. I try to maks some a little special for the dinner if I can. thanks for all the great ideas posted.

Sharna January 29 2010 9:14 PM

A couple from our church hosts an annual Valentine fondue night at their home. I can't wait!

Shelley Gray January 29 2010 7:44 PM

The gifts that come from the heart truly mean more than the ones bought at the store. 17 years ago I picked daffodills from the side of the highway for my wife at the first sign of spring. Every year since, I have returned to the scene of the crime. Although I am financially able to buy my wife flowers, and do sometimes, she appreciates the "stolen" daffodils more than any other.

Teacher Dave January 29 2010 7:38 PM

My husband and I are blessed with 3! I used to have expectations about Valentines... That's changed! My husband goes to slay the dragon each day for me and our 3... Recently he has moved us to Maui... Now that the most romantic thing ever! He is the best husband ever! And I am blessed. We are so thankful to Dave And his financial peace! It keeps us grounded, so whatever is in our envelope is what we will be doing! Loved hearing all the ideas! Blessings

Maui Momma January 29 2010 7:30 PM

We have three kids; one daughter, nearly 7; one son, 4; and the baby girl who's 15 months. I think aside from the school parties, kids still enjoy celebrating Valentine's Day and it's fun to include them. I think this year dinner will be something they really like, like shrimp for the main course. Mommy will bake some heart shaped cookies or make some individual heart shaped cakes and everyone can wear red that day. We can play some fun games. And after the kids go to bed, mom and dad can continue to celebrate privately if the desire hits. None of this costs a lot of money, and everyone will still have fun. The kids will appreciate being included in the planning and it still ends up being a special time for the whole family.

Sylvia Wiginton January 29 2010 7:20 PM

I love these ideas! We normally avoid going out On Valentine's Day and go out a day or two later. With a 2 1/2 yr old boy and a 2 week old baby at home that's not too practical this year. I love the idea of having a family Valentine's Day. Clear, pink and red layered jello, chocolate fondue and fun pancakes/sandwiches and celebrating with our oldest at lunchtime sound like fun. Love the playing the wii or board games after the kids are asleep too. Thanks for all of the fabulous ideas!

Meg F January 29 2010 7:06 PM

My husband and I started a Valentine's Day tradition several years ago that has become special. Instead of spending money we don't have a flowers, cards, candy, etc., we write a love letter to each other. While this is cost-free, money-wise, it does take some time to think through. After a cheap date at our favorite burger joint, we read the letters and discuss them. It's something I really look forward to every year.

E January 29 2010 6:52 PM

Valentine's Day is a family event at our house...we love spending time together and want to make the most of it...since our children grow up too quickly. Board games, homemade pizza and laughter...that is the best!

MaryJo January 29 2010 6:24 PM

I like flowers, but they don't have to be pricey. I know mine come from the grocery store. I would also really like a nice car wash (inside and out). I usually make my husband and son a favorite food.

Anne January 29 2010 6:09 PM

First Church, then hurry home, you may not have heard yet but the Daytona 500 will be run on the 14th this year. Buggity-buggity-buggity-buggity-buggity!

George Markos January 29 2010 5:40 PM

outside activites.....burrr! It is Feb...the month that the heat bill soars the highest! Ummmm, no thanks on the outdoor activites, however we did find we break our budget just comming up with a sitter. 5 Kids and there is no repreve. Sigh, oh well, someday there will be a quiet house...

maureen January 29 2010 5:38 PM

Valentine's Day? We're supposed to celebrate that?

BetsyC January 29 2010 5:08 PM

Go to a quiet corner of the library and read love poems to each other!

Shannon January 29 2010 4:59 PM

Dave, thank you so much for the cheap Valentine's date ideas! They are super! You are very thoughtful.

Stella January 29 2010 4:35 PM

Dave, you read our minds. Last year for Valentines we took the day and went Eagle watching. We live on the Mississippi River near St. Louis and we drove up the river and watched the Eagles at different locations, stopped at a couple quaint towns with some unique shops. Closer to home we did stop for dinner out but it was not an expensive dinner. By the way, we did it with my parents and grandmother (and the dog) since my mothers birthday is the same day. I can't tell you what we have ever done for previous Valentines Days but we had the BEST time, spent little money, made the day special for everyone and made a lot of great memories. Keep up the great work Dave!

Wendy Jones January 29 2010 4:20 PM

Don't buy into the commercialism of the holiday at all (no pun intended). Be nice to each other all year long and there's no need for extra Valentine's Day expenses. You'll already feel loved and so will your spouse.

Tracey January 29 2010 4:12 PM

Mrs. C, it sounds like your life is busy. I know that it has been difficult for my wife and i to have time alone. In fact, when we DO get to have dates we have to remind each other what a date is! I have occaisonally let her have the night off. I let her go off for the evening and let her have some "me" time. She's not allowed to come back before the kids are in bed. When she does i'll rub her feet, play with her hair or rub her back...she LOVES it. Another thing would be to promise each other you AREN'T going to spend any money and let your creative juices flow on how you can show each other your love without spending ANY money. You and your husband were once creative and romantic...granted children do have the capcity to zap that from you. Revive that first flame, let your children see you be affectionate (obviously within reason). ENJOY EACH OTHER!

Chris January 29 2010 3:49 PM

The greatest Valentine's gift my husband ever game me was one week of cooking dinner. He's a non-cook, (besides eggs), but he made the menu, did the shopping, and put dinner on the table every day for a full week. He was happy to give the job back to me when the week was over, but I have never loved anything he's ever given me so much. I felt loved for the whole week.

Bev January 29 2010 3:41 PM

Hey Guys, if you have a pottery shop near by, why not check it out and see if you can make your own pottery and/or paint a pieces of their already made art figures? I did this with my nieces and they really enjoyed being creative. We still have those pink elephants to remind us of that fun day together. O and the day can go even farther by implementing your art work as a way of communication. For instance, two painted ducks (or elephants) at the front door. If the ducks are facing each other it means I'm happy to see you. If they're not facing each other it means we need to talk. And if their covered up (or side by side) then it will suggest that you want to be close tonight. : ) I read this from a book and it works!!! Try it out! No girl in her right mind wouldn't like to get your silent message to her, that you miss her or wanna be close, while your gone. Best of Blessing to you!!! Happy V-Day!

STACEY January 29 2010 3:26 PM

These are all such great ideas! We just paid off our first bill...paid in full! And here comes a holiday. We plan to go to the ice rink and skate with the kids, Its free! Then some hot chocolate and cookies. Nothing is greater than time spent with your loved ones.

Laura January 29 2010 3:23 PM

Don't ever buy your wife a dress from Cracker Barrell for Valentine's Day (unless your wife is a whole lot older than mine).. still paying for that one.

Dean January 29 2010 3:14 PM

If you feel obligated to buy a gift AND you want bang-for-buck in doing so, may I suggest a plant? Not only can it be dolled up cheaply with ribbon and a card, but you can have a "romantic" time planting it together in the yard or a windowbox, it is a long-lasting reminder of that happy moment, AND it adds PROPERTY VALUE to your home when you sell it and/or makes the landlord happy when you move on! You can get flowers, shrubs, or even small trees and watch your love "grow" month by year by decade together! Imagine that--a Dave-Ramsey-Style gift that INCREASES its own value and that of its surroundings! Maybe some "forget-me-nots"???

Dan January 29 2010 2:52 PM

Even though we are debt free (except the house) we still have a "cheap date" Valentine's day with our kids. It started when they were younger and it was impossible to find a sitter on Valentines night, plus everywhere was SO crowded. SO, I took the kids to the store and we found foods that were pink, red and white to have for dinner. We made heart shaped homemade pizzas, shrimp, pink lemonade, and red jellow for dessert. That was over 10 years ago, and we have done it every year since. The menu varies a little from year to year (but the heart pizzas always make the cut.) Now, my husband and I couldn't go out alone on Valentines Night even if we wanted to. It's one of our kids favorite traditions ~ and they are our Valentines, too.

Jill January 29 2010 2:50 PM

My mom always celebrated Valentines as a family holiday. She made us a wonderful breakfast of heart shaped waffels before school. Then gave us balloons from the dollar store with a candy bar attached at school. We appreciated it so much, we did her and Dad a favor by going to our rooms early for bed or letting them have a quiet dinner alone that night.

R January 29 2010 2:46 PM

Mrs. C ....is your glass half full or half empty?? be thankfful that you have a large healthy family.

Jimmy January 29 2010 2:37 PM

A great valentines last year was to have fondue. We like to go to the melting pot, and it is very expense. Fondue at home by candle light will take time and it is a great talking time. We also make a little space in our home where we do not usually eat, with folding table, cloth and candles, you can change the atmosphere.

susan January 29 2010 2:29 PM

One thing we started 10 years ago was quiet night for Mom and Dad. I let my 4 boys make pizzas for their dinner and then they have a "campout" night in the basement only rule is fighting or we hear them, they have to go to bed in their room. We either let then have a video or video game night. The boys and I make their snacks the week before. Dad and I have a quiet dinner and evening upstairs with a special dinner. The teenagers still request this every year!

michele January 29 2010 2:27 PM

One year I had to be out of town on Valentine's Day so I made reservations in my 4 year old son's name and had him escort his mom to dinner. I had flowers sent to the restaruant and pre paid with my debit card. It was a memorable day for both of them!

Joe Percevecz January 29 2010 2:26 PM

The dinner in would be great, but I thinks since the wifes cook most of the time, the husbands should do the cooking! That would be a very romantic treat!

Erwen January 29 2010 2:26 PM

Instead of the husbands just taking over the cooking and cleaning for one day, you could promise (and follow through) that you will help around the house more. Take on one regular chore as your own. That would be the most romantic to me... never have to worry about vacuuming or dusting because it's my husband's job now.

Sara January 29 2010 2:08 PM

Here is a fun and thoughtful idea for an inexpensive gift that your wife won’t likely forget... Buy a box of kids valentines, like the one your 8 your old gets. Find a box that looks like a small box, like the size of a cereal box, with a valentine message (I have been able to find something like this at Target in the greeting card section.) Fill out every single valentine with a memory of your share or a special encouraging and loving note. With the cereal box on its side with valentines coming out and all over the counter, mix in pictures of our lives starting from when you were kids. (You may need to go to your mother-in-law for help obtaining just the right pics - come on guys, this is for her!) Now for the gift – find a couple inexpensive picture frames from target that fit a memorable picture of each of you from your child hood. As an example, I found two pictures where we were both kids about the same age, neither having a clue that the other even existed at that time but we were both with fishing pole in hand and the same cheesy 70s clothing. I'm guessing if you asked my wife about her favorite valentine’s gift, that one is at the top of the list and I spend less than 25 bucks.

Justin January 29 2010 2:04 PM

Every Year I mail my husband & our 5 children a Valentine's Day card through the US Postal Service to Valetine, Texas to have it post marked there & then the USPS post marks it with Valentine,Texas stamp! Just address the envelope like you would normally mail a letter. Make sure you put a stamp on it! Then place it in a larger envelope, again, make sure you have the proper postage & address it to: Post Master Valentine,Texas 79854. I always put a little note & ask them to kindly post mark it & they always do it! You can have them post mark it on Valentine's Day - you have to request it, but it will get to your loved one late, so make sure you have a card for Valentine's Day. This year(2010) will be different because Valentine's Day is on Sunday.So, I do not know how it will work out this year-they are probably closed on Valentine's Day this year-it is on Sunday. I do this every year! I used to live in Marfa,Texas which is about 30 miles away from Valentine,Texas! Just wanted to share! Check it out online & you can read an article! I do this every year & I also send my co-wokers one! They think it is sweet!

Nicole January 29 2010 2:04 PM

If we want to go out for Valentine's Day, we do it the night after. The prices are back to where they should be, and if we go a little early, a lot of restaurants have even a food happy hour!

Mary January 29 2010 2:03 PM

I'll take time with my hubby anytime over flowers. We have six children and flowers are nice but time with him is a real commodity with so many little ones.:-)

Connie January 29 2010 1:53 PM

One of the things my wife does for me every year is kidnap me for my Birthday. We have been married eleven year and she has done this every year. Looking forward what she will be planning this year. Kidnapping, yes, she doesn't tell me where we are going, had made arrangements with my boss, etc.. Tells me to get in the car and drive, your bag is already packed and the car is full of gas. I back out of the driveway and she tells me every turn to take when we get to the intersections, or a little before but never the next turn. We have gone to bed & breakfast, hot air balloon rides, taken Amtrak, flown on airplanes to see one of my daughters, did a WOTDTOOTD (We Ought To Do That One Of These Days) trips, that took us to a modular home building tour, to Mt St Helens, railroad diner car, etc., always keeping me in suspense as where we were going. One time took a couple to Seattle and he didn't know where we were going either. Its great fun, try it, you will like it!

Duane Mattson January 29 2010 1:49 PM

Kids will only be small for a certain season but you can choose to have your "in house" date after they go to bed. Stay up late! You probably stayed up late when you first dated each other and it's only one night. My husband is the king of romance and slow dancing in your own house with your own husband is a real hit! It costs nothing and no one cuts in!

DeeEdrah January 29 2010 1:45 PM

Our church is having a couples dinner with music, games and etc that will be prepared and hosted by our youth group. We did it last year and had a blast. Cost $14 per couple.

Jimmy Hammett January 29 2010 1:45 PM

Hey Mrs. C - I hear you. How about making your house the "restaurant" that you and your husband go to where the kids are the cooks, waiters, etc. They can take your order (for say heart shaped pb&j's or pancakes) and then let them have fun letting them cooking and serving. Let the kids make up the menus. They will get a kick out of it and you and your husband might get a few moments to catch up with each other. Put out some construction paper hearts and let each person write what they love about your family and read during your meal. Enjoy your time together.

Jeanne January 29 2010 1:44 PM

My favorite Valentine's Days have probably been the cheapest - one year, my husband bought a bag of Hershey's Kisses (~$2) and wrapped bundles of 2 or 3 in cellophane with curly ribbon. Each bundle had a little strip he'd typed up with a memory or something he loved about me. He hid them all over the house - I was finding them for weeks! It was wonderful! Another year he bought a couple of boxes of kid's Valentine cards, and went around at church and emailed all my friends to send him a short message with something they liked about me. He filled one out himself, and put them in a basket. I still treasure those!

Maria January 29 2010 1:34 PM

Great ideas. For me, it has never been about how much is spent. What matters to me is that my guy does something he doesn't normally do just to show he really does care and I am special to him - that's what I want to do for him too. No expensive gifts require - time and attention.

Jeri January 29 2010 1:31 PM

My favorite date included a scavenger hunt. (very exciting) I was given 5 envelopes numbered 1 through 5, and each envelope included a riddle or directions to a new place I had not visited. One was taste tasting gourmet popcorn, another was a cup of creamy hot chocolate where we sat and watched the people walk past, another was a walk hand in hand with him, another was a trip to the library where we looked at books together while dreaming and laughing, and the final enveloped had a coupon book filled with get a free "car wash, nail polishing, ect." Try this date, my husband spent time creating this day and it is my most momorable date and cost very little.

Judy Sieg January 29 2010 1:30 PM

If you use the museum idea, many local libraries offer free passes. Also, Bank of America sponsors a free weekend each month at a number of different Museums around the country.

Mike January 29 2010 1:24 PM

Hiking in February? Obviously you're from the South. :)

Jen January 29 2010 1:17 PM

Great ideas Dave! Thanks for sharing this!

Jill January 29 2010 1:10 PM

I am making my hubby and daughter chocolate dipped fruit. I saw it on the net for $26-$52 a box. I estimated I can do the same thing for $15 for both of them. A Rental movie and they love my beef stew. Can't wait to surprise them!!

Kristie January 29 2010 1:03 PM

You better hope corporate america doesn't see this article. Valentines day is no longer about love, it is about $$.

Jason Taylor January 29 2010 12:54 PM

What ladies REALLY want is time and to know that their hero invested time into their relationship.

keonacanoe January 29 2010 12:52 PM

Women love gifts that require more thought/ planning than money. Try role reversal. She normally cooks, you cook. She normally cleans, you clean. (Make it romantic...wear an apron and little else. Dress up in a suit if you'd normally be in jeans. Very enticing!) Serve budget friendly sparkling wine with a 3-4 store bought chocolate dipped strawberries.) Ina Garten recipes on foodnetwork.com; search by level - use "easy". Ribollito soup is amazing; tasty, low cal and easy to make. Recipes are written step by step and easy to follow for the most novice cook.

Dawn DiElsi January 29 2010 12:51 PM

For Valentine's Day my hubby and I invited four other couples over for a "Roll Your Own Sushi" night. Everyone is in charge of bringing a different element - fish, nori, rice, veggies, etc. We'll get some inexpensive wine, light some candles, play some music. Good food, good company and a really decadent chocolate dessert (homemade, of course) is all you need!

Jen January 29 2010 12:51 PM

Our wedding anniversary is on the 15th and my birthday is on the 23rd so we lump that together with Valentine's Day and celebrate for a week. We are decorating the dining table with a red tablecloth and candles and will cook some new recipes we've been wanting to try. And I get to pick what rental movies we get to watch--all chick flicks! Then with our kids, we will dress up in red and take a family picture by putting the camera on the tripod to commemorate Valentine's 2010.

Grace January 29 2010 12:45 PM

One of our most unique Valentines Days was last year when we went snowshoeing for the early afternoon-several hours and ended up at the Olive Garden in Traverse Cit, MICH. We were still in outdoor gear.Our waitress asked about us: explained we had been snowshowing. She made our meal extra special. Had a wonderful time. It was an inexpensive day. Loved it! The memories will last forever.

L January 29 2010 12:42 PM

Another fun thing that I have just discovered is Geocaching where you go to all kinds of places you have never seen before and find little treasures with your GPS or Geocaching app on the Iphone.

Big Kid At Play January 29 2010 12:39 PM

I am a guy that will resort to eating cereal for dinner if my wife is gone. Cooking dinner for her just because is a good way for me to show her how much I care about her....nothing fancy, even if it something like spaghetti us guys can cook it (directions provided of course). Best of all it doesn't cost any more than usually, but means that much more to her!

Justin Myers January 29 2010 12:33 PM

Love your ideas! A game night for just the 2 of us is our plan. Buying a lot of different games can be expensive, especially if you don't end up liking/playing them. We have been learning to play different 2-player card games. It is really cheap as all you need is a couple decks of card & search the internet for games & rules. Penuckle is our favorite right now.

Melissa January 29 2010 12:29 PM

Wonderful Ideas! A couple of my favorites I have done in the past: Bake a cake for your sweetheart or make a picture collage of your memories together.

Mindy January 29 2010 12:18 PM

White Castle is offering a Valentine's Day Dinner special, too: http://www.whitecastle.com/promotions/valentine but I'm not sure how romantic that is. LOL

Nicole P. January 29 2010 12:17 PM

If you're in southern California, the Getty museum only charges for parking. And I also second the Wii game night.

Frank January 29 2010 12:12 PM

This came at a perfect time! My husband and I were debating this very topic. Thanks for keeping us on track. Our staycation will consist of using equipment we already own like fishing, kayaking, and a gaming system. A couple of special meals will round out a great week. Plus there's nothing like a good night's sleep in your own bed.

Carrie January 29 2010 12:02 PM

Great Ideas! A couple of years ago while we were going through FP, Valentines landed on Thurs, and payday was on Friday. So my husband and I agreed that he would get me something that Fri. day after Valentines. It was GREAT because he gave me two boxes of chocolate for the price of one and was happy he only spent $8.00. Now we just make it a tradition! What a Deal eh?

Julie January 29 2010 11:53 AM

Since I enjoy cooking immensely and can find tremendous recipes online, your idea to cook at home and rent a movie ($5) is an excellent one.

Serounian Keir January 29 2010 11:51 AM

Haven't retailers, Credit Card companies, etc... done a fantastic job at instilling guilt in us for not buying junk for the holidays? I'm blessed with a fantastic wife who appreciates the effort, not the money, I put into what I do for her.

Jason Wilcox January 29 2010 11:49 AM

I have been romancing my beautiful wife with a candlelit dinner in our dining room (just the two of us) with a delicious home cooked meal every Valentine's Day since we have been married. Guys, the menu doesn't matter much. What matters is that you took the time to plan it, cook it, and have it ready when she got home from work (or after the kids had an early bedtime). My recommendation is a salad, some home cooked bread, some crab, a veggie and a glass of wine. Some chocolates for after dinner is the proverbial icing on the cake! Might be a bit higher end buy you can't burn pre-cooked crab! Do this and you will both a a Valentine's Day you will long remember.

Gary January 29 2010 11:46 AM

Nothin' says love like a man doing dishes! Help around the house guys! Give her an IOU for chores and projects that need doing around the house...and then actually do them. Cheap gift and you will get more than you give from this one. From a Kansas Prairie Wife and Mom who knows.

Kim January 29 2010 11:41 AM

A few years ago I invited some close friends over for a Valentine's day supper and had all of our kids help me prepare the meal and set out the fancy dishes and crystal goblets. I joined the adults and the kids served us our special meal. I don't know who had more fun...the kids or the adults!

Belinda January 29 2010 11:41 AM

These are cute ideas, but when you have 6 children under 13 and have to pay a babysitter $8.00/hr... a drive becomes even more expensive. Museum is not doable cost-wise etc. Even hiking becomes costly. And before someone suggests we "trade" babysitting with other couples, that is not an option in our area. Extended family lives far away. Children can't be put to bed too early since they are not babies. And we already do homecooked food all the time, and games or library dvds are the main thing we do for our monthly date-nights. So are there any new and creative ideas for couples with many small and medium children?

Mrs C January 29 2010 11:38 AM

Breakfast in bed (before church) might be another suggestion!

Bob Vischer January 29 2010 11:31 AM

A "cheap" date that my husband and I enjoy is going to a bookstore, picking out a book that neither of us have read, always in paperback, buy two copies and read it. It takes longer than you would think to agree on a book, and we have something to talk about. We have even picked up cookbooks and tried recipes.

Camie January 29 2010 11:23 AM

WHEN WE WHERE GROWING UP MY MOM MADE A HEART SHAPED MEATLOAF AND HEART SHAPED CAKE WE HAD OUR DINNER AT HOME WITH SOME CANDLES . WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY SO HER IS AN IDEA FOR YOUR LISTENERS DAVE, WE LISTEN TO YOU EVERY DAY WE SEE YOU ON FOX BUSSINESS. WELL HAVE A GREAT DAY!

CANDICE January 29 2010 11:20 AM

Some great evenings just the two of us watching a movie on the couch! Only costs us $5.00 for the movie/or On Demand rental and then opo our own corn and a bottle of spirits!

Greg January 29 2010 11:17 AM

You can still send roses on a budget. My dad and the rest of us get Mom potted minature roses. Here front flower bed is lined with them and she loves to point and say "That's the one you gave me for Mother's day" or the one dad gave me, etc.! Also one Valentine's Day I gave my husband a "Chocolate Cookbook" and years later we're still on the mission of trying them all and we remember that Valentine's everytime we get the book out!

Cindy January 29 2010 11:16 AM

With kids...we always do fondue. We make pound cake and brownies and add in other inexpensive dippers with a bag of chocolate chips. We get to enjoy the family time together.

Penny January 29 2010 11:13 AM

Thank you for the ideas! Last week on our date night we went to our local grocery store to stock up on toothpaste on sale for $1.00, read magazines (including one with Dave Ramsey on the cover) and then headed to the cheap movies. Total cost $7. It was a blast!

E Morfit January 29 2010 11:09 AM

Well.... those are all great ideas BUT they are only practical if you don't have kids! Getting a sitter is usually the biggest expense of a date night for us and many of our friends (the going rate around here is $10/hr). BUT we have a couple of solutions: we trade off with friends and watch eachother's kids, or we combine kids together with one trusted sitter and split the cost.

Erica January 29 2010 11:02 AM

The Open Road is one of my husbands and I's favorite dates! We have found some of our greatest conversations happen while driving...Its a great great way to spend time together and see new things!

Marta Miller January 29 2010 10:51 AM

I love this article and it brought back a special memory for me so ... I have to share the best date I ever had with my husband ... he told me to get really dressed up because we were going somewhere special! I raised an eyebrow because we were broke!! He had on a suit and tie and I was wearing a little black dress. He opened the car door for me and I already felt like a princess! We headed towards Chattanooga and he pulled off at a rest stop just as we neared the city. I had no idea what was going on! He opened the trunk and pulled out a picnic basket. At first, this seemed - well - cheap! But when he opened the basket, he pulled out a white linen table cloth, candles, and two place settings of our crystal, china and silver. He poured cranberry juice into the wine glasses and had fixed a simple casserole. We had the BEST time as we experienced "fine dining" in a fun atmosphere! Everyone turned heads and smiled as we looked into each other's eyes and slowly ate our meal. It was unforgettable and it didn't cost a dime (we would have eaten that casserole on the couch in our sweats anyway!) Since then, we learned about you, went to FPU, go out of debt and are working on baby step #6. You seriously rock and we love you Dave!!

Mary January 29 2010 10:49 AM

Thanks for reminding people that love doesn't have a price tag..well actually it does the price is sacrifice, which is what you do for the spouse you love..they will understand....

Matue January 29 2010 10:38 AM

You can definitely have romance and stay in budget. Keep it simple, it will usually prove to be more memorable.

Jim Law January 29 2010 10:17 AM