This is one of the best times of year to be romantic.The spirit of giving is everywhere and there are penty of gifts available that are only around this time of year, but romance is not always about gifts. Sometimes just a few thoughtful actions are enough.

Here are a few ideas that I know that I would love.

1. A romantic picnic by the fire place. There is nothing like a cozy fire in the winter. The light from a fireplace makes the perfect setting for romance. All you need is a little food and wine and plenty of firewood. Turn off all the lights and let the glow from the fire set the mood. Don't forget the music. I, being a fan of Kenny G, would suggest a nice romantic saxophone serenade. If you live someplace warm, just crank up the ac to keep the place from getting too hot.
2. Jewelry makes a nice gift. How many women do you know that would not love a shiny piece. Just remember to be original. Find something that goes along with her personality. Don't give a huge diamond to a woman who loves the simple things in life. Find her something elegant but try to remember her likes and dislikes.
3. Got kids? How about getting them in on the action. Kids can come up with the best ideas to make a mom smile.
4. Every woman needs a little break from the day to day grind that life puts her through. Whisk her away for a romantic weekend. Take her to a nice hotel or bed and breakfast. Have her clothes already packed for her and be sure to make arrangements for everything that would usually keep her from wanting to leave home. Get a babysitter for the kids, make sure the pets are taken care of, ... those kinds of things.
5. Can't afford to do much or don't have kids or a fireplace, how about just a simple dinner for two with the music. You two can dance in the living room. OR you can make her a coupon book. You can make it as nice or as naughty as you think she'll like. Get creative. Give her free kisses or discounts based on hugs. All that take is paper and ink and plenty of love.
6. Want to give her a gift? I am sure that any one can suggest gift ideas, but who knows her best? You do- or at least you should. Take her interests into account when gift buying. Take me for instance. I love books. A great gift for me would be a few titles from my favorite author. the more in tune with her likes your gifts are, the better. It shows that you care enough to know what she is interested in. It shows that her thoughts and feelings matter to you.

It doesn't take a lot of money to be romantic. All it takes is a lot of love. Remember that and you can put a sparkle in her eye that will never fade. Just be creative and keep her in mind. A man's idea of romance is often very different from a woman's. You can't always put a price on a romantic gesture.

Gifts given in love are the best kind, and love is always the best gift. I know its corny, but it's true. There is something special about even the tiniest gift when a lot of love is behind it. If she really loves you and really love her, the saying "It's the thought that counts" , is truer than ever.

If nothing else comes to mind, you're a writer, right?  Write her a poem or a song.  That's even better if you can sing it to her.  Short stories are nice too.  Make it into something that she can show her friends.  This is another great way to get the kids involved, too.  I'm ssure that they'd love to make a nice cover for a family publication dedicated to a special woman that you all love.

I am not a licensed professional. I just know romance because I am a romantic.

I hope this helped.

Tootles!!