Valentine's Day Expressions

I like to use ANY excuse to celebrate Romance. Valentine's Day is just another one! My fiance and I don't subscribe to the mass advertised version of romance, we just make up our own.

We like to find creative ways to express our love whenever possible. And after almost fifteen years together (I know, still not married yet! 2012 is our year!) we still manage to surprise and delight each other.

It helps to know what love language your beloved speaks. According to Gary Chapman, author of "The Five Love Languages" (and several other great books) everyone has their own preferred "language of love".

From his website:

Words of Affirmation
Actions don’t always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important—hearing the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten.

Quality Time
In the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, “I love you,” like full, undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there—with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby—makes your significant other feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful.

Receiving Gifts
Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous—so would the absence of everyday gestures.

Acts of Service
Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The words he or she most want to hear: “Let me do that for you.” Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don’t matter.

Physical Touch
This language isn’t all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is, not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face—they can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care, and love. Physical presence and accessibility are crucial, while neglect or abuse can be unforgivable and destructive.

When we choose to use the "love language" that speaks most eloquently to our Beloved, we flood our relationship with warm fuzzies, heartfelt moments and plenty of good old fashioned romance. Now THAT'S worth celebrating!

What's YOUR primary love language? What is your Sweetheart's?

Remember, Life Can Be a Honeymoon! Let's Start NOW!

In Joy,
Sara McGoodwin
Chief Executive Romance Goddess