20 Thoughtful and Romantic Gift Ideas to Surprise Your Spouse With

I recently read an article about how to be romantic all year round and how you should not wait until Valentine's Day to show your love for your spouse.  There were some great ideas in this article, many of which did not require a lot of time and money.  One idea that really inspired me is the one about a monthly gift.  I think picking up a little something for your spouse once a month just to say that you were thinking of him or her would be fun, romantic, and would add some anticipation to a marriage.  This should be a low pressure gift, perhaps something little that you saw while you were out that made you think of your spouse.

For those months that you do not just happen to see something you think your spouse would like, I enlisted my husband to help me make the lists below.  These are lists you can turn to if you need a back-up gift idea.


Monthly Gift Ideas for Your Husband . . . 

1.  A favorite cake, pie, or other dessert that needs to be specially ordered from a restaurant or bakery
2.  A 6-pack of one of his favorite beers that he rarely gets to have
3.  A movie he had mentioned once that he wanted to see a long time ago, but never did
4.  9-holes of golf
5.  A tie (if he has to wear them often)
6.  A clever novelty t-shirt
7.  The latest book by his favorite author
8.  The latest issues of a few of his favorite magazines that he does not subscribe to
9.  A video game he would like that you can play together
10. A container of munchies or treats to keep at work


Monthly Gift Ideas for Your Wife . . .

1.  A jar candle in a scent you think she'll love
2.  A charm to add to an existing charm bracelet or necklace
3.  A favorite cake, pie, or other dessert that needs to be specially ordered from a restaurant or bakery
4.  A mixed bouquet of flowers
5.  A movie she had mentioned once that she wanted to see a long time ago, but never did
6.  The latest book by her favorite author
7.  The latest issues of a few of her favorite magazines that she does not subscribe to
8.  A new scarf (if she likes to wear them)
9.  A pair or two of fun novelty socks that fit her personality
10. A few shades of nail polish or lipstick you would love to see on her


If you have any ideas about small thoughtful gifts to give to a spouse, I would love to hear them.  My husband and I are going to try this, so I will certainly need more ideas for the future.

Go here for more great ideas about how to show your love all year long.

My Photos (W/E 8-20-11)

So, I may have gotten a little carried away with the photo-taking this week.  I suppose it's a good thing.  For every photo I take, that means I don't have myself planted in front of my laptop writing, right?  I hope there are one or two that appeal to you this week.

(Click any photo to enlarge)

"I Spy a 2nd Grader"

"A Creative Process"

"A Tattooed Artist"

"Silly Business"

"Gone For a Ride"

"Serious Business"

"Do Not Disturb"

"A Love Story"

Thank you for taking the time to view my photos this week! If you'd like to play along or see more great photos, stop by to see Lotus a.k.a. Sarcastic Mom.

Does the First Day of Spring Mean There is Romance in the Air?

It's the first day of spring!  Does that mean romance is in the air like how it is depicted in the cartoons on television?  Springtime usually means seasonal allergies and insects coming out of hiding to me.  Autumn is actually my favorite season.  It is also the season during which my husband and I had our first date and when we got married.  So to me, autumn is the season of romance.

Friend Owl from BAMBI has a different opinion . . .




During which season did you fall in love?

Join Me on February 9th at 1pm EST to Chat About How to Have a Romantic Evening at Home

My husband and I have been married for over ten years and we are about to have our 16th Valentine's Day together.  As you may have guessed, the Valentine's Days with elaborate romantic plans are long gone, especially with having 3 young children.  My husband actually has to work on Valentine's Day this year and will get home right in time to put the children to bed.  So, what can we do to spend some quality time together for the last few hours of Valentine's Day?  Have any ideas?

Well, I thought maybe we could have a late dinner together.  I actually cannot remember the last time we ate dinner together alone at home.  It could very well have been at least 7 years ago.  One thing that is always more romantic is eating food that we both like and can share.  That is why Dr. Oetker Ristorante Pizza is the perfect sponsor for a live chat about Valentine's Day and quality Time with your loved one.  You are officially invited to join in on the text-based discussion!

What:  "Valentine's Day and Quality Time" Chat

Where:  TheMotherhood.com

When:  Wednesday, February 9th, 2011

Time:  1:00pm EST

Prizes:  4 Pizza-Themed Prize Packs (Including cooler bag, pizza cutter, apron, and product coupons) will be given out throughout the chat.

Hope to see you there!

This post is part of a paid campaign brought to you by TheMotherhood.com on behalf of Dr. Oetker.