Hello friends, and welcome or welcome back to the blog!
QUOTE
“Memory is a mansion, and dreams are the spaces between its walls”. – Mary, An Awakening of Terror
Friends, how are you? I hope you’re doing well, and I wish you joy, health, and prosperity this season. Make sure you take care of yourself, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and tuck into a good book this season.
’Tis the season, right? Most stores had Valentine’s Day merch out back in December—which still feels wild to me. And forgive me, it’s not my intention to poo-poo Valentine’s Day, but so much of what lines the shelves of big-box and craft stores is, in a word, junk. Stuff that’s destined for a donation bin…or worse, a landfill.
Friends, we really do need to be more mindful. Gifting should be conscious, not compulsive.
I love showing love on V-Day, but I also think it’s worth taking a step back and widening the lens. If you’re going to give something, how about giving to the people who quietly keep your town or city humming—especially during inclement weather, holidays, and the everyday chaos of life?
The nurses. The teachers. The sanitation workers. The security guard who greets you with a cheerful “good morning” every single day. The barista who always remembers your order and gets it right. Those are the folks who, in my humble opinion, deserve a little extra love on Valentine’s Day.
And no, I’m not talking about dropping a C-note. Something as simple as a $20 gift card for breakfast or lunch, a small bouquet of flowers, or even a puzzle or crossword book can go a long way. Thoughtful doesn’t have to mean expensive—it just has to mean intentional. 💌
My gift list is only a few small items that carry weight and go a long way.
Shop Links
Loops Masks
Embr Smart mug
Mulberry Sleep Mask
Cashmere Socks
Headphones
This Made Me Think of Us
Alpaca Beanie
Affirmation Card Deck
Body Oil
Another thoughtful way to gift a loved one is with flowers—but hear me out. Instead of a big, expensive bouquet on Valentine’s Day that wilts a week later, how about something that lasts a little longer? A month of flowers through your local CSA, where they receive fresh blooms once a week, feels both personal and practical.
Or consider a week of pre-made meals for that always-busy person in your life. It’s not flashy, but it is incredibly loving. Even a three-month Audible subscription can be a meaningful gift—stories, comfort, and escape wrapped into one.
Don’t get me wrong—jewelry is lovely, and a night out at your favorite restaurant will always be a classic. But in my more mature years, I’ve learned what I truly appreciate. Give me flowers for the month, a few luxe face masks for an at-home spa day, and a cozy pair of cashmere socks (truly the gift that keeps on giving), and I am more than content.
Friends, I hope this post has sparked a few Valentine’s Day ideas for you. It’s never been one of my favorite holidays, but over time I’ve learned to embrace what it really means—thoughtfulness, care, and showing love in ways that actually matter.
That’s all for today.
— Peace