5 Fun Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Home

Ten years ago this Valentine’s Day my husband surprised me with a beach proposal, making February 14, 2010 one of the most romantic days of my life. Since then we’ve lived in three different states, moved five times, had two children, changed jobs multiple times, lost family members, and gained new friends. 

Our story isn’t unique.  After nearly ten years of marriage, the love, commitment, and friendship is as strong as ever…but the romance?  It may have dwindled just a bit.  After a long day, we typically celebrate getting the kids to bed by vegging mindlessly on the couch, often simultaneously watching Netflix and zoning out on our phones—that is, if we manage to stay awake.  We’re next to each other, but we’re not connecting.

At this stage of life, it’s asking a lot to find a sitter, change out of our PJ’s, and actually go out.  Sometimes it just doesn’t feel worth the effort.  Plus, my husband and I are self-described homebodies, and what’s wrong with that?  If you’re like us and would rather opt inside (and preferably not too far from the remote) here are five ways to bring the sexy back and celebrate Valentine’s day at home.

1. Fondue– I know, I’m taking it way back with this one, but fondue is such a great way to relax the pace of your normally hectic day and just enjoy a meal or dessert together. Not only can fondue be delicious, but it also forces you to slow down and enjoy every mouthful. There’s no shoveling it in because you have to take your time to cook each bite, giving you and your stud muffin plenty of time to gaze into each other’s eyes and actually converse.  
2. Spice up your favorite game– My husband and I both love game nights, but when it’s just the two of us we rarely make the effort. This Valentine’s Day, why not give it a go and take it to the next level? The rules to any board or card game can be modified to make it sexier.  Strip Scrabble, anyone?
3. Do a puzzle together– Okay, so not everyone is into puzzles, but hear me out. There are several companies out there that will make a puzzle out of a favorite photo of yours.  Why not create one from a nostalgic photo of when you first met or from your wedding? Working on it together will get you interacting, and when it’s complete, you’ll have the opportunity to reminisce together about some treasured memories.
4. Booze under the stars– After living in Upstate New York, there is one thing I appreciate most about Phoenix: being able to spend time outdoors in the winter! Let’s take advantage of our gorgeous weather and move our Valentine’s celebration to the backyard.  String up some twinkle lights, turn on some tunes, grab your drink of choice, and snuggle up under a blanket with your loved one.  It’s amazing how just a simple change of scenery can reinvigorate a relationship.
5. Turn your favorite show into a kissing game– Not quite ready to take the plunge and turn off the tube for an entire evening? That’s okay! Turn your favorite show into a kissing game (think drinking game) by agreeing on a set of rules beforehand and ending with a bang (if you know what I mean).  If comedies are your thing, kiss each other every time the show genuinely makes you laugh.  Into sports? Smooch each time your team scores.  Medical drama more your vibe?  Lay one on your partner each time the doctor does a procedure that a nurse would actually do in real life.  Use your imagination!  The important thing is that you are making an effort to be intimate when you would otherwise be zoning.

What are your favorite ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day at home? Whatever you end up doing this Valentine’s Day I hope you feel the love!