It’s that time again when the stores are filled with red gifts and hearts everywhere. It’s time to say I love you again to those close to you. What does it mean and how do you do it each year? Is it for a husband, wife, boyfriend girlfriend or significant other? Or is it for a mother, father, child or friend who has meaning in your life? Or is it just another way for the stores to make money?

Telling someone you love that you love them is different for everyone. We all have different ways and styles to express our emotions. For some it is easier to buy a card, for others it may be to write a poem and still for others it may be to take someone to a special place. Whatever our choice it is always welcomed.

In our busy lives we sometimes just don’t share our feelings all that much neglecting to be attentive to our loved ones. Valentines Day gives us another chance to think about all those people in our lives that touch us and that we may touch in some way. Maybe we need Holidays like these to remind ourselves to communicate our thoughts.

Having said that, how creative can you be each year in sending your love message? Some thoughts to consider in your 2005 expression of love may include the following:

Know your recipient: If your special person loves flowers, send them; if they love special dinners, find a new restaurant to take them to; if they love to open gifts buy something and present it. The most important thing is to pay attention to their wishes and show them you know what gives them pleasure. The message here is that you have paid attention all year to their needs.

Leave little gifts around the house in special places for your loved one to find during the day.

Send flowers. Always a thoughtful idea.

Spend time just with your significant other. Time is love so get a babysitter for the kids and go somewhere alone. A weekend or overnight get-a way would be thoughtful.

For children, parents, and friends do what feels good. Sending cards, telephone calls and boxes of chocolate can brighten up a day and send a message of “I’m thinking of you.”

Be creative! Expressions of love don’t have to cost money. Maybe breakfast in bed or cooking a special meal may be your plan. Have fun with it and know you are making someone smile. Feel good yourself because the real payoff is in the giving.

Maybe we should be thankful that the holidays are here so we can get back in touch with our feelings and share them again. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Barbara Peters is a licensed professional counselor in Private Practice in Cumming, GA . Click Here to visit her website