Four Years Ago, We Started A Valentine's Day Tradition...

Lisa and I don't go all out for Valentine's Day. We embrace the sentiment of the day, but we don't get caught up in the obnoxious commercialization. You won't find us making reservations for a "limited Valentine's Day dinner menu" at an upscale restaurant. Lisa won't be waiting in line to purchase roses that have almost doubled in price since last week. You can also forget the sappy greeting cards, plush bears, and any type of confection that's housed in a heart shaped box.

Instead, we enjoy a quiet dinner at home. One that we usually prepare together. The kids get a special Valentine's Day meal and treats. We end the evening with some family snuggle time on the sofa and some Netflix.

During the afternoon on the-day-of-love, I block off a few hours to carry on a tradition that I started 4 years ago. It involves spending that time in the kitchen and whipping up a decadent Valentine's Day treat to share with some of our neighbors who we love and adore.

For us, that's what it's all about. Spreading the love. Extending gratitude. Being thankful for the wonderful people in our lives who are only a hop, skip, and jump away.

Last year, I made a huge batch of my Cupid's Munch. I covered the entire kitchen table with wax paper, made a ton of popcorn, picked out all of the un-popped kernels, and spread the popcorn out evenly. I melted milk chocolate and white chocolate, drizzled both over the popcorn, sprinkled with Valentine's Day M&M's, and finished it off with a little course sea salt and festive sprinkles.

After the chocolates hardened, I filled clear party bags and tied with a pretty bow. Lisa delivered the bags shortly after she got home from work. It was a huge hit and everyone loved their bag of sweet Valentine's Day Love.

This year, I spent about 3 days trying to decide what I was going to make. It wasn't until this afternoon that I finally made a decision. I sent the list of ingredients to Lisa so she could grab them on the way home from work.

Did you think I was going to spill the beans just yet?

Nope.

Did you think I was going to forget about our fur-nieces and fur-nephews?

Absolutely not!

They'll be getting some homemade Valentine's Day treats too.

Check back tomorrow...

I'll be posting photos of this year's Valentine's Day creations!