Coupon Books and Sappy Old Love Songs for the Valentine on a Budget
Posted: Thursday, February 12, 2009
by Teresa Ortiz
Freelance writer/Speaker
Are you having trouble choosing the perfect gift for your sweetheart? Times are tough and "We the people" are finding new and creative ways to say I love you without having to spend a dime.
This year's budget screams simplicity--at least to me it does. Heck this year, my valentine won't be home, so we are excused. For those of you who are less fortunate, if you haven't already made the big purchase, chances are its not for lack of ideas, but lack of funds. What are you to do?
I say it's time to take your queue from the pre-school aged kids--you know, steal their ideas, they will never know the difference and if they do catch on, they will feel honored that you considered their ideas worthy.
Consider making a coupon book for your loved one--it should be sacrificial on your end. Coupons that say "This coupon entitles recipient to massage significant other's feet", probably won't fair well. You could try it, but chances are you'll be sorry. Imagine; one coupon a day for 30 days--now this is a treat! A one hundred dollar bouquet of roses doesn't even come close to this kind of longevity. Carefully and lovingly, create your coupons. Go ahead, steal the construction paper and crayons from the kids. No, you may not use the computer; what kind of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gift would that be--you have no children you say. No problem, construction paper and crayons are still cheaper than roses.
What about writing a song or a poem that speaks all that is deep within your soul. So what if you are not a writer or a poet; as long as it is from your heart, your valentine will love it--or at least give you a long warm smile--until you turn your head, that is.
Okay, so you have gone over it a million times, you just can't think of anything to write--don't be too hard on yourself, not everyone is a Barry Manilow , or a Brothers-Gibb. Steal a song, hey--you have already stolen from a child, so this will be cake.
A few songs came to mind as I was watching West Side Story earlier this evening. Some just as sappy and cheesy as "I just kissed a girl named Maria", and some far worse, or better in terms of sappiness. These are sure to make your valentine's heart go pitter-patter.
Chantilly lace had a pretty face and a ponytail hangin' down
A wiggle in her walk and a giggle in her talk
Make the world go ‘round
Ain't nothing in the world like a big eyed girl to make act so
funny, make me spend my money
Make me feel real loose like a long necked goose
Like a-oh baby, that's a-what I like!
(The Big Bopper – Chantilly Lace)
You are here and so am I
Maybe millions of people go by
But they all disappear from view
And I only have eyes for you
(The Flamingo's – I only have Eyes for You)
Or how about the all-time famous Righteous Brothers
Oh, my love, my darling
I've hungered for your touch, a long, lonely time
Time goes by so slowly, and time can do so much
Are you still mine
I need your love
I need your love
God speed your love to me
(Unchained Melody)
Finally, there is my personal family favorite
I love you--you love me
We're a great big family
With a great big hug
And a kiss from me to you
Won't you say you love me too!
(Barney – The big purple dinosaur)
It may be that this piece is too hokey for some readers; nevertheless, I do believe it speaks a certain truth and reminder of the simplicity of genuine love. My husband will be traveling home this valentine's weekend after working out of state these past four weeks. A solemn reminder of how important simple acts of love such as words of kindness, or talking to your loved one until they fall asleep--not getting mad, but feeling blessed because your voice is calm and soothing. While I am thinking about it, why not read to your special someone.
Singing love songs, making coupon books, and words of praise should be given all year long--because every day is a special day, a gift to be treasured with friends and family.
© Teresa Ortiz All rights reserved
Ha ha! I like the Barney one too.Ha! When the kids were little we watched Barney and Lamb chop every morning. Well, actually I didn't, my husband had the morning shift, so he was the lucky one.Thanks for reading and taking a moment to comment!God bless you!
Thanks for the cute ideas. Everyone needs to remember it's not what you get but, who you get it from. I'm looking forward to a romantic dinner at home. Well, I don't know how romantic it will be since my son wants to have his best friend spend the night. The things we give up for our children!!Hi Patti! You said it well, thanks for your input.Enjoy that romantic dinner with your husband. You can sneak in a kiss or two while the boys are tucked away in the room playing video games. Just throw in some drinks and junk food, that should keep them in the room for a while :-)God bless you! Teresa
Hi Teresa.The coupon book is a great idea and I love the songs that you quoted. I could hear them in my head as I read them.Hugs,DianneHi Dianne, how are you doing?Isn't it funny how our memory works? I hope you enjoyed singing these little diddy's :-)Hugs and blessings to you!Teresa
Teresa, wonderful ideas. I agree with your closing statement. One day is hardly enough and each day with our loved ones is special. Letting them know it by how we show it, is what counts! Happy V-day to you and your loved ones. God bless all of you!
Love,
Avis
Hi Avis, good to hear from you! How are you doing??Thanks for reading and taking a moment to comment.Relationships in general is what life is all about. I think this economy is bringing most people back to the basics and we are learning how to enjoy one another again without all the hoopla.Lord bless you this Valentines day and every day! Hugs, Teresa
hi t,excellent article, great ideas, i have used them from time to time, and one of my favorite songs of all time (ya know, besides lynrd skynrd, black sabbath, the Who :)is the righteous brothers song you picked, love it, love it, love it.i'm happy for you that your husband will be home.thanks for some great ideas, and have a great valentine's day,my best to you,sueThanks for reading Sue! I love that these types are gifts are timeless and are even good for a "just because" occasion.All the best to you. Enjoy your valentine weekend! Hugs, t
I love the coupon book idea--that's great. You've given us some really good inexpensive ideas here. Thanks a lot, Teresa, you're a doll!SandraHi Sandra, glad to hear you are all up and running!! Thanks for reading and commenting. I am going to make a coupon book for Art as a after valentines day gift.Blessings to you and yours!!
Teresa, As usual, your articles grab me right out the gate, and since all my kids are grown up :( I will still steal the idea.......I love the song idea too. After all, I am a DJ, and also a "KJ" (karaoke Jockey), I'm sure I could come up with some song for my lovely Christine.....I have always believed in simplicity, less is more type of thing, and I think you are going back to the basics which is an idea I adore!! Well done, and I always love your articles.....Your friend and fan in pen........Gary. Be well.Thanks Gary! I preciate it bunches! I am sure your lovely wife would adore a love song from you :-)I believe God is calling us all back to basics--if we are honest with ourselves, we would have to admit that we have exchanged "stuff" as a means of showing love, and other than the pocket book, there hasn't been much in the way of personal sacrifice.I am looking foward to your next story!
Teresa,Wonderful writing! Thank you for your clever ideas. Things handmade really are more meaningful.The only thing my husband and I want for Valentine's Day is to be alone for a few hours. It seldom happens in our household. So for some, just being together can be the gift.NancyHi Nancy,Thanks for the nice compliment :-)I do hope you get some quiet time with your main sqeeze :-)Blessings to you! Teresa
Thank-you Teresa! for the REMINDERs. Very Good and True, it's the little things we say and do, that matter and make a difference.Thanks Heather! Have a wonderful weekend! God bless all the family. Love & hugs, Teresa