Tag: Valentine’s Day

The Morning Thing has Information on How to Be Romantic for Valentine’s Day

On the Morning Thing Thursday, Marcy and Eric continued our discussion of alternative ways of being romantic. These are a little different and “think outside the box.”
• Obvious: Buy flowers. You typically can’t go wrong with red roses, but you should pick your partner’s favorite color if its available.
• Go on a long walk or a long drive.
• Write them a heartfelt letter
• Take them to do their favorite activity. It could be dancing, it could be karaoke, maybe skydiving (just kidding).
• Make them a playlist. This is the 21st century version of a mix tape (remember those?)
Click HERE for 100 Ways to be Romantic from Romantic Retreats. It Is an English site, but it does have some good ideas.

We also had some great ideas for fun valentine’s day activities for the kids.
• Love Jar: When you or the kids see an act of kindness or God’s love demonstrated, write it down and put it in a jar. At the end of the month, pull out the notes and talk about the memories over pizza.
• Written Notes for the Overlooked: Have the kids make valentines for special people in your life. Make sure to include those who may be overlooked like a widow or widower who are celebrating their first valentine’s day without their spouse.
• Show love to others: Play a simple game like love bingo. Write a characteristic of love into each block. Then explain the way God loves us and expects to treat them with dignity. The author of this comment went on to say that they bought a pizza and drink for a homeless person, and their daughter write, “God loves you!” on the box.


Also, don’t forget about the love of God and the fact he loves you unconditionally,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16 (NIV)
Click HERE for Practical Activities to Do with Kids for Valentines Day from Focus on the Family.com

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Need a unique idea for your Valentine?

The Morning Thing is here to help you get ready for Valentine’s Day! Today, we shared ideas for any relationship stage.
There are 79 different ideas in this article from theknot.com
Click HERE to see the full list.

Here are some of our favorites. We hope you find a special way to say I Love You this year!
(Disclaimer – some of these ideas are specifically for married couples)

Cute Valentine’s Day Ideas to Show Off Your Love

We know a thing or two about swoon-worthy gestures, including which cute Valentine’s Day ideas will wow your S.O. Big and small, these Valentine’s Day things to do and cute Valentine’s date ideas will make your person feel cherished and adored.

1. Wake Them Up to a Romantic Message

Start Valentine’s Day on a strong note by leaving your partner a romantic (or sultry!) message to wake up to. Write something in lipstick or steam on your bathroom mirror, or leave them a handwritten note in bed to kick off your day of romance. And if you don’t live together or are in a long-distance relationship, consider a good morning text for her or him.  .

2. Surprise Them With Lunch at Work

Since February 14, 2024, falls on a Wednesday, most will have to work on V-Day. Give your partner a smile in the middle of the day by surprising them with lunch. You can use apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats or call for delivery to make the drop remotely. Or, if you’re able to, bring them lunch yourself—and you can throw in a kiss, too.

3. Pen a Personal Valentine’s Day Card Message

What’s V-Day without a special card? Make sure your partner knows just how much you mean to them by purchasing a Valentine’s Day Card and writing a thoughtful message on the inside.

4. Post to Instagram

We know you’re itching to post all those cute couple pics on the ‘gram, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity. Using one of our Valentine’s Day captions, craft an ode to your S.O. and spread the love on social media.

5. Make a Valentine’s Day Playlist

When you just can’t seem to come up with adequate words yourself, let music do the talking. If you need a cute Valentine’s Day idea, create a Valentine’s playlist of your favorite love songs and share it when the holiday arrives.

6. Serve Up Breakfast in Bed

Let’s be real: Everyone loves the thought of getting served breakfast in bed, especially on Valentine’s Day. Wake up early to prepare a delicious spread of your partner’s favorite breakfast foods and deliver it first thing in the morning. (Bonus points if your meal is accompanied by a stunning arrangement of flowers.)

7. Send Flowers

Speaking of flowers, delivering red roses to your love is one of the most romantic Valentine’s Day ideas of all time. Head to your local florist or source a bouquet from an online seller to ensure your partner wakes up to a gorgeous display of fresh blooms.

8. Give Them a Cute Valentine’s Day Gift

Presents and Valentine’s Day go hand-in-hand. Browse our roundup of the best V-Day gifts to find something special that’ll make any boyfriend, girlfriend, fiancé or spouse feel loved.

9. Mark Something Off Your Bucket List

For a once-in-a-lifetime Valentine’s Day date idea, plan an activity that’s on your bucket list. From traveling somewhere exciting to making a reservation at that special restaurant you’ve been dying to go to, this cute activity will seriously impress your S.O.

10. Buy Their Favorite Food

You know your person better than anyone. Whether they have a serious sweet tooth or they’re always asking for sushi take-out, make sure they get a taste of their favorite food on Valentine’s Day.

Unique Valentine’s Day Ideas for Couples

Looking for something a little more out of the box? We’ve got plenty of unique ideas for Valentine’s Day right here. Your partner won’t suspect a thing if you opt for one of these creative dates.

11. Take a Pottery Class

In lieu of spending money on gifts this year, put those funds toward a couple’s pottery class. You’ll be able to get creative (and messy!) and can gift one another your pieces of pottery after frying/drying.

12. Get Dreamy at the Planetarium

Take a cue from Ross and Rachel (no, not with the whole break thing) and gaze up at a planetarium’s stars on a date. This unique idea for Valentine’s Day will allow you to gaze at the romantic night sky even if you live in a city or chilly location.

13. Plan a Romantic Getaway

What could be cooler than going on a romantic getaway to mark Valentine’s Day? While this activity will take some planning ahead of time, your S.O. will be totally blown away by your thoughtfulness.

14. Go to a Concert

Music lovers, take note. Valentine’s Day is the perfect chance to go see a concert or a show. (Bonus points if you’re able to snag tickets to a performer you both love.)

15. Book a Cooking Class

When you can’t think of unique ideas for Valentine’s Day, enroll in a local cooking class. Not only is this a fun way for the two of you to pick up some new skills, you’ll get to enjoy a delicious dinner at the end. How’s that for a win?

16. Buy Museum Passes

Art and history buffs alike will love this creative Valentine’s Day idea. Buy passes to a local museum or exhibit, and you’ll have so much fun leisurely strolling around and learning new things together.

17. Head to the Movies

You can’t go wrong by heading to the movie theater for a fun idea for Valentine’s Day. Stock up on popcorn, soda and your favorite candy to enjoy as you take in a new flick.

18. Explore Your Hometown

Sometimes, the best Valentine’s Day ideas are hidden in your backyard. There’s so much fun to be had in your hometown—all you need is a little curiosity. Head out on an expedition of your local town or city in search of something new to do that you haven’t experienced yet. You never know what adventures you’ll have along the way.

19. Take a Workout Class Together

If your love language is getting a good sweat in, Valentine’s Day is a great time to do it together. Book a class at your local spin studio, head out on a long run, or slow things down with a hot yoga session to get those endorphins flowing.

20. Plan a Spa Day

Valentine’s Day can be an occasion for rest and relaxation, so enjoy a little R&R together at your local spa. Book a couples massage, enjoy some time in the sauna, or indulge in a facial with all the extras. You two deserve it.

21. Go to a Comedy Show

Laugh until your stomach hurts by snagging tickets to a comedy show on Valentine’s Day. Follow it up by getting post-show dinner and drinks at a nice restaurant for a memorable V-Day activity.

22. Adopt a Pet

Couples who are ready to grow their family by a few paws (or fins, or scales) may be intrigued by the idea of adopting a pet on Valentine’s Day. After all, nothing says love quite like welcoming a furry friend into your home and hearts.

23. Go Camping

Adventurers in search of cool things to do on Valentine’s Day need not look further. Connect with the great outdoors by pitching a tent and sleeping among the stars—if you live in a warm enough climate, that is.

Valentine’s Day Dinner Ideas for Couples

V-Day is pretty much synonymous with bubbles, chocolate and fine dining—so a romantic dinner date is always a good idea. Here, find some of our favorite things to do on Valentine’s Day that involve food.

31. Play TikTok’s Date Game

If you’re on TikTok, there’s a chance you’ve seen the date game: an activity where couples play rock, paper, scissors to decide who picks where they’ll get drinks, appetizers, entrees and dessert. This Valentine’s Day dinner idea is particularly apropos for indecisive foodies.

32. Find a Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Menu

Many restaurants offer prix fixe menus in honor of Valentine’s Day—in other words, a meal of several courses at a fixed price. A quick Google search for special prix fixe menus in your area will present you with a variety of restaurants worth dining at for an extra-special V-Day experience.

33. Reserve a Table with a View

Up the ante of your Valentine’s Day dinner date by requesting a table with a nice view. While not all restaurants may be able to guarantee where your spot will be, it won’t hurt to give them a call ahead of time to see what they can offer. Or, plan your Valentine’s Day date at a restaurant that offers stunning views from every seat in the house.

34. Order a Home Meal Kit

Not into the idea of going out for dinner on Valentine’s Day? Bring the fine dining experience to your kitchen with a meal kit service. These pre-made boxes come with every ingredient you need for a stellar recipe, thus taking the guesswork out of cooking. Don’t underestimate how accomplished you’ll feel after preparing a delicious dinner from scratch.

35. Order Take-Out

When you can’t even be bothered to cook on Valentine’s Day, treat yourself to take-out. You won’t regret a cozy night at home with your favorite bottle of wine and yummy pad Thai.

36. Host a Potluck Dinner With Friends

Celebrating Valentine’s Day with your besties? Yes, please. We love the idea of hosting a potluck dinner with your nearest and dearest. Invite everyone to celebrate the holiday at your place and ask them to bring their favorite dish for one big, unforgettable meal.

37. Recreate Your First Date

Take it back to the beginning with this creative Valentine’s Day idea. Reminisce on your very first date with your S.O. What did you do? If you met for dinner and drinks, go back to that same restaurant to relive your early days as a couple.

38. Have a Pizza Taste Test Game

Here’s a Valentine’s Day dinner idea for pizza lovers: Grab a pie from all of your favorite pizzerias, and do a blindfolded taste test at home to see how well you really know your local slices. That’s amore!

39. Create Your Own Wine Tasting Experience

Bring the winery to your kitchen by setting up your own tasting activity for V-Day. Grab a few bottles of different blends and enjoy your sips with homemade charcuterie and crudités.

40. Make Each Other’s Favorite Meals

This Valentine’s Day date idea is fitting for the couple who can never decide on a place to go out to eat. Let’s say you love Italian, but your partner prefers Mexican—challenge yourselves to create your partner’s all-time favorite dinner dish. Not only will this fun date force you to get creative in the kitchen, it may inspire you to cook outside your comfort zone more often.

41. Host Your Own Bake-Off Challenge

Can’t get enough of The Great British Bake Off? Celebrate February 14 with this adorable Valentine’s Day idea inspired by the beloved competition series. Select a dessert for you and your partner to make, and see whose is better. (Pssst…There are no losers in this game, because you’ll both have a sweet ending to another great Valentine’s Day together.)

Romantic Valentine’s Day Date Ideas for Every Budget

How much you spend on your Valentine’s Day activity is completely up to you. While you can splurge on luxe gifts or a fancy date night, you certainly don’t have to spend a lot of money to show your partner how much you love them. Whether you’re looking to save or splurge, here are our favorite Valentine’s Day ideas for a variety of budgets.

Under $50

  • 42. Head to your local coffee shop for lattes and pastries.
  • 43. Do a puzzle together.
  • 44. Play trivia at a local bar.
  • 45. Go stargazing in your backyard.
  • 46. Get your favorite takeout delivered.

$50 – $100

  • 47. Create a scavenger hunt in your hometown that ends with a romantic dinner.
  • 48. Go to a drive-in.
  • 49. Plan a DIY wine and charcuterie night.
  • 50. Get materials for a craft night at home.
  • 51. Go thrift shopping.

$100 – $200

  • 52. Indulge in a wine tasting experience at a winery.
  • 53. Go brewery hopping.
  • 54. Book a couples’ massage.
  • 55. Go on a double date with friends.
  • 56. Head to a local theme park.

$200 – $500

  • 57. Plan a romantic staycation in your hometown.
  • 58. Enjoy fine dining at an elevated restaurant.
  • 59. Book a boudoir photoshoot.
  • 60. Take a day trip somewhere within driving distance.
  • 61. Get tickets to a local comedy or theater show.

$500 and up

  • 63. Pull out all the stops with a romantic, over-the-top proposal.
  • 64. Charter a helicopter ride.
  • 65. Splurge on a nice suite in a fancy hotel room.
  • 66. Book an international trip you’ve both been wanting to take.
  • 67. Rent a boat for the day.

Free Valentine’s Day Activities

In the words of JLo, love don’t cost a thing. There are plenty of cool and romantic Valentine’s Day date ideas that are completely free—it just takes a little creativity to bring them to life. Here are some of our favorite date ideas for Valentine’s Day that won’t set you back a cent.

68. Book Club with Bae

A couple of weeks before Valentine’s Day, choose a romantic book you’ve both been wanting to read. (You can borrow them from the library.) Then, host a cute book club date just for the two of you when Valentine’s Day rolls around—themed treats and all!

69. Take a Hike

Lace up your boots and immerse yourselves in nature by heading out on a Valentine’s Day hike. The photos you get from the summit will be well worth the effort, especially if you hit it right at sunrise or sunset.

70. Go Skating

Depending on where you live, you might be able to head to a local ice rink or skate park free of charge. Or, if you live somewhere warm, grab your rollerskates and hit the town for a spin. (Looking at you, West Coasters.)

71. Tour Art Galleries

Not all art galleries have entrance fees. Do some research to discover nearby museums that are free of charge. This affordable Valentine’s Day date idea will also allow you to immerse yourself in local culture, a huge win if you’re new to the area (or if you just want something creative to do).

72. Play Truth or Dare

Remember this childhood favorite? Not only is truth or dare is totally free, the memories you make will be priceless. Plus, you’ll have a great time connecting to your inner child with this Valentine’s Day activity.

73. Watch a Movie

Homebodies will adore this cute Valentine’s Day day date idea. Transform your living room into a cozy oasis of blankets, pillows and candles to set the mood for a movie night in the comfort of your own home. (And we’d be remiss not to recommend watching some of our all-time favorite wedding movies.)

74. Have a Picnic

You’re never too old for a good, old-fashioned picnic. In fact, you don’t have to splash out on a fancy dinner just because it’s Valentine’s Day. There’s something extra romantic about preparing a meal together—especially if you or your partner are aspiring home chefs.

75. Make Playlists for Each Other

Consider this one of our favorite Valentine’s Day ideas of all time. Since music is closely intertwined with memory and emotion, set aside time for you and your S.O. to make playlists for each other. Think about the songs that remind you of them. Is there a tune you heard on your first date? Do you have a shared karaoke hit? What song always makes you think of them when it comes on the radio? Compile your top picks, then listen to the playlists together. It’s totally free, and it’ll give you all the feels.

76. Have Deep Conversations

A holiday dedicated to love is a great time to strengthen your bond, so pop a bottle of bubbly and have some deep conversations.

77. Create an At-Home Spa

The costs of a spa day can quickly add up, so if you need a Valentine’s Day idea that won’t break the bank, bring the experience to you. Create an at-home spa by dimming the lights, sparking some candles, drawing a bubble bath, and giving each other massages.

78. Volunteer Together

One of the best ways to mark Valentine’s Day is to spread love to others. Volunteering is totally free and is an impactful way to make a difference. Those looking for things to do on Valentine’s Day might find it fulfilling to spend time giving back on this special day.

79. Go Star-Gazing in Your Backyard

When night falls on Valentine’s Day, bundle up and head outside to look at the stars. This underrated Valentine’s Day date idea costs absolutely nothing and is perfect for astrology and nature lovers alike.

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The Morning Thing shares ways to make Valentine’s Day sweet for your family

Valentine’s Day is next Wednesday! YES – 1 week away!
Today, The Morning Thing shared some fun ideas on how to make this day extra special for your family.

Thanks to imom.com for their wonderful and creative ideas!
Let us know if you try any of the ideas. We would love to share your family’s story!

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Getting crafty with your kids for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is a great time for your kids to get creative, especially with their classroom parties! Today we shared some fun ideas for Valentine’s Day cards that will be a hit in your children’s classroom!

Click HERE to get some fun new ideas.

We asked some of our WNZR staff members to share some of their favorite memories from Valentine’s Day growing up. Click HERE to hear stories from Marcy, Judah, Dylan, Allison, and Catherine. Catherine also gave us this video of her gift that she talks about. Be sure to check out the video below!

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Need some fresh ideas for Valentine’s Day? We’ve got you covered!

Valentine’s Day is a week away! Have you started shopping for your significant other? Now’s the best time to get started. This morning on the show, we talked about 21 outside the box gift ideas. These gifts include arranging a weekend getaway, personalized jewelry, a flowering plant, exploring a new city, concert or sports tickets, and much more! New and unique gift ideas can be really meaningful for you and your significant other, so start thinking about it today.

Click HERE for the full list of gift ideas from Merrick’s Art.

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10 Marriage tips from couples that have been married 50 years or more

The Morning Thing is celebrating LOVE Week.
Today (2/10/21), we shared some great advice from couples that have been married 50 years or more.

We hope this list from www.cru.org encourages you and your spouse.
Click HERE to read the full article.

The following ten ideas, shared by couples married for 50 years or more, will help your marriage last a lifetime.

  1. You need a Savior. “We didn’t realize that it was two sinners who married each other. Two very sinful people who needed a Savior.” (Mona Sproull)
  2. Stay committed to one another. “Love is not a feeling, it’s a commitment … no matter what, I will stand by your mom.” (Charles Powell)
  3. Pray with your mate. “Rather than each of us having ourselves at the center of our thinking, there enters a willingness to let God be at the center.” (Jerry Bell)
  4. Forgive one another. “All I could think of was if God could forgive me of all of my sins, who am I not to forgive my husband.” (Joan Fortin)
  5. Realize that there’s no such thing as a perfect husband or perfect wife. “Christ has given me understanding and lets me know that everyone does something wrong sometimes.” (Mattie Foy)
  6. Have faith that God knows what He is doing. “A lot of people would ask me, ‘No children yet?’ And I’d say, ‘No, but I am sure having a good time telling you how to raise yours.’” (Jodie May)
  7. Trust that God gives grace and direction as we trust Him. “How can a parent trust the Lord when they lose a child? It takes a lot of faith.” (Richard Long)
  8. You’ll need to make compromises. “You can’t always have your way. I just thought that marriage would be a give and take situation.” (Nelda Davenport)
  9. Be objective and take the emotion out of problem solving. “If I say something to you that’s disrespectful to you and I don’t really know it, you need to trust my heart.” (Mona Sproull)
  10. Love your spouse. “The love comes from God.” (Mattie Foy)

What is the result of a marriage that lasts a lifetime? After 53 years of marriage, five children, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, Joan Fortin says, “I just see the blessings that God has given us through this marriage and the love that the family has for one another, and I could have missed all of that.”

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Valentine’s Day Ideas for your family

Today, we kicked off Valentine’s Week on the show. Every day, we’ll talk about topics that deal with love.

Today, we shared 10 Valentine’s Day Ideas for your family from Family Life.
Start some new traditions with your children during the holiday of love.

Click HERE to see the full article.

1. Ask the kids to tell you how they think Valentine’s Day began. Write down what they say. Then do some research with the children, online or at the library, and see if their ideas are correct.

2. Designate the month of February as a time to show special love in your home. Read the following paraphrase together of 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (The Message).

Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.
Love doesn’t strut,
Doesn’t have a swelled head,
Doesn’t force itself on others,
Isn’t always “me first,”
Doesn’t fly off the handle,
Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn’t revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.

Then discuss each of the above characteristics of love at the dinner table on separate nights. For example, “Love never gives up.” How have friends and family stood by one another in good and bad times?  What did God do after Adam and Eve sinned that showed that He did not give up on mankind?

3.  Plan a unique scavenger hunt with the kids for Dad (or Mom). Help the children make and hide clues, taping a small chocolate kiss on each one. Have meaningful gifts at the end of the hunt. Possibilities include handwritten notes of love and appreciation, personal certificates of service (I will wash your car, clean out the garage, cook dinner, etc.), drawings, homemade treats, framed family pictures, etc. To make the scavenger hunt extra special, end your time with a family trip to the pizza parlor or bowling alley.

4. As a family, think of those who may be especially lonely on Valentine’s Day, then brainstorm ways that you could show Christ’s love to them. The kids may want to make unique Valentine cards, bake heart-shaped cookies, or invite them to a special lunch or dinner.

5.  Cultivate a sense of appreciation in your children by helping them express appreciation to their grandparents. Have each of the kids write Grandma and Grandpa individual Valentine’s Day notes. On February 14, personally deliver the notes along with an arrangement of flowers or a balloon bouquet. If grandparents live out-of-town, mail each note in a separate envelope and also call Grandma and Grandpa.

6.  Make February 14 a “red letter day” for your family. Decorate the kitchen or dining room with hearts, red and white streamers, and heart-shaped balloons. Wear a red outfit or apron and serve the family heart-shaped pancakes; add some red food coloring to the syrup. Make heart-shaped sandwiches for lunch, and choose dinner entrees that are red.

7.  Mail each of your children a Valentine’s card from you and your spouse. Share not only why you love your child unconditionally, but also your gratitude to God that your son/daughter is your child.

8.  Tell your children how you celebrated Valentine’s Day as a child. Then have the kids call/visit their grandparents to see how they celebrated it. Talk about ways that Valentine traditions have not only changed, but also remained the same.

9.  Help the kids make an “I love you because” book for someone special (parent, grandparent, pastor, teacher, etc.). In addition to writing and drawing heartfelt messages, include some favorite photographs and artwork. For a lasting keepsake, have the book bound at a local print shop.

10.  With your spouse, decide on personalized ways that you can show love to each of your children on Valentine’s Day. Spend time praying about how to best do this. While love for one child may be expressed by time, another may feel loved by words of affirmation or gifts. You may want to read The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell.

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The Morning Thing Friday Favorites – ROMANCE at the Movies!

For our Friday Favorites we celebrate ROMANCE! It’s Valentine’s Day!

Marcy Rinehart and Hunter Sutyak share their favorite romantic movies in honor of our “Silver Screen Serenade” theme at this year’s Valentines Banquet.

Marcy loves “A Walk to Remember”. Click HERE to hear from Marcy.

Hunter loves “The Notebook”. Click HERE to hear from Hunter.

WOW! Nicholas Sparks gets our votes for romance!

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The Morning Thing wraps up Love Week with questions and quotes

The Morning Thing has focused on LOVE all this week.

We wrapped up the week by sharing an interesting article from the New York Times. Writer Daniel Jones shared 36 Questions That Lead to Love. Click HERE to read the full article.

Daniel shares questions that were used in a study by Psychologist Arthur Aron (and others) that explores whether intimacy between two strangers can be accelerated by having them ask each other a specific series of personal questions. The 36 questions in the study are broken up into three sets, with each set intended to be more probing than the previous one. Check it out. We think that couples at any stage of their relationship can benefit by incorporating these questions into meaningful conversations.

We also shared some amazing quotes from the Big Screen.
Click HERE to see The 30 Most Romantic Movie Quotes Of All Time! Maybe you can put one of these movies on your Watch List for this Valentine’s Weekend.

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at WNZR!

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Its LOVE WEEK on The Morning Thing! We Bring Back The Five Love Languages!

The morning is celebrating Love Week by talking about The Five Love Languages! Marcy & Lexie share about the five love languages, what they are, and what they mean for your romantic and platonic love. wanna take the quiz? find it HERE

Focus on The Family also has a great article on The Five Love Languages that The Morning Thing was able to use as a resource. If you want to check it out, click HERE

The Morning Thing also used imom.com as a resource to talk about how using The Five Love Languages with your children! check out the article HERE

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