Romantic Dinner Ideas for a Cozy Valentine's Day at Home

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate the day of love than with a romantic dinner at home? Skip the crowded restaurants and create a cozy, intimate atmosphere right in your own space. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or a novice in the kitchen, these dinner ideas will help you impress your special someone with a delightful homemade meal.

Classic Candlelit Dinner:

Start the evening with a classic candlelit dinner featuring timeless dishes that never fail to impress. Begin with a simple yet elegant Caesar salad – crisp romaine lettuce, garlic croutons, and a creamy dressing. For the main course, try a perfectly cooked ribeye steak or salmon paired with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. Finish the night on a sweet note with a classic chocolate fondue, complete with strawberries, marshmallows, and cubes of pound cake for dipping.

Mediterranean Flavors:

Transport your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean with a menu inspired by the vibrant and flavorful cuisine of the region. Begin with a mezze platter featuring hummus, tzatziki, olives, and stuffed grape leaves. For the main course, prepare a mouthwatering Mediterranean baked cod with tomatoes, olives, and capers. Serve it over a bed of couscous or orzo. Complete the meal with a refreshing lemon sorbet or baklava for a touch of sweetness. 

DIY Pizza Night:

Embrace a more casual and interactive dinner experience with a DIY pizza night. Set up a pizza-making station with various toppings, sauces, and cheeses. Allow each person to customize their pizza before baking them to perfection. Pair the pizzas with a side salad or some garlic knots. The interactive nature of this meal encourages conversation and collaboration, making it a fun and memorable Valentine's Day dinner.

Vegetarian Delight:

For those who prefer a plant-based option, consider a delightful vegetarian dinner. Start with a roasted vegetable and quinoa salad tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette. Follow it up with a creamy mushroom risotto that boasts rich flavors and a velvety texture. Roasted Brussels sprouts or grilled asparagus make excellent side dishes. Conclude the evening with a vegan chocolate avocado mousse for a guilt-free, decadent dessert.

Spicy Romance – Thai-Inspired Dinner:

Spice things up with a Thai-inspired dinner that brings bold flavors to the table. Begin with Tom Yum soup, a hot and sour broth infused with lemongrass, galangal, and chili. For the main course, serve a red curry chicken or tofu with jasmine rice. The aromatic blend of coconut milk, curry paste, and Thai herbs creates a symphony of flavors. End the evening with mango sticky rice for a sweet and tropical finale. 

This Valentine's Day, treat your loved one to a special and intimate dinner at home with these delightful ideas. Whether you opt for a classic candlelit setting, a Mediterranean feast, a DIY pizza night, a vegetarian delight, or a spicy Thai-inspired menu, the key is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Remember to add personal touches, such as a carefully selected playlist, beautiful table settings, and, most importantly, your undivided attention. Celebrate love with a homemade meal that reflects your thoughtfulness and effort in making the day memorable for both of you.

Gourmet Gift Baskets Has Your Valentine's Day Gifts Covered

It's officially February, which means Valentine's Day will be here before you know it. If you are trying to figure out what to give the people you love, look no further than a delicious gift from Gourmet Gift Baskets. If you have been following this blog for a while, you probably already know how deep my love for food gifts is. I feel like sweet treats and snacks are a great way to say I love you. Gourmet Gift Baskets has a wide variety of food gifts to please every person's taste. They offer everything from chocolate, cookies, fruit, wine, beer, cheese, crackers, snacks, and more. 

Consider sending a deliciously indulgent gift with perfect pairings-- Valentine’s Day Chai & Bundt Cakes ($99.99). This gift basket includes:  

• Double Chocolate Mini Bundt Cake - Qty. 2
• Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Inclusions Mini Bundt Cake  - Qty. 2
• Red Velvet Mini Bundt Cake - Qty. 2
• Masala Chai Tea Concentrate by DONA - 16 oz.

This is perfect for women, men, grandma, grandpa -- just about anyone on your list! The treats come in a beautiful basket that can be used to store or display items around your home in a decorative way. It's like giving two gifts in one! Find it here. 

These mini bundt cakes are so moist and delicious. They are super fresh and taste homemade. My favorite one is the vanilla with strawberry. My girls both love the red velvet and chocolate best. They also love the chai served over ice with oar milk. 

Other gift baskets to consider: 

With Love La Marca Champagne Gift Box, $89.99 (SKU 6679V)

Say "I Love You" with this perfect gift. It arrives in a gorgeous magnetic keepsake box and includes a selection of delicious treats to be enjoyed with a glass of La Marca Prosecco. S'more Grahams, cheese and crackers, and Raspberry Mule Mix are included. Craft a Sweetheart cocktail and toast your loved one with this wonderful gift you can both share on Valentine's Day.

Love Is All You Need Candy Stash, $34.99 (SKU 4836)

Okay, so this one is for some of the kids on your list -- or the adults that never grew up and still have an incredible sweet tooth (like me). The candy stash box features fun-size candy bars and candies in a fun keepsake box. When the candy is gone, it's excellent for storing jewelry, school supplies, or anything else. Make someone feel extra special with this box of sweet treats. 

Check out the full line of Valentine's Day gift ideas. There is something for everyone! 

Special thanks to our brand partner Gourmet Gift Baskets for providing a gift basket for us to enjoy. 

Cocktail and Mocktail Recipes for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is a special occasion to celebrate love and romance, and what better way to do that than with a delicious cocktail or mocktail? Whether you're planning a romantic dinner for two at home or hosting a party with friends, these easy Valentine's Day cocktail and mocktail recipes are sure to impress. 

Cocktail: Raspberry Rose Martini

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz raspberry vodka

1 oz rose liqueur

1/2 oz lime juice

1/4 oz simple syrup

3 raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine the raspberry vodka, rose liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup.

2. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.

3. Garnish with 3 raspberries on a toothpick.

Mocktail: Strawberry Basil Fizz

Ingredients:

1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered

3 basil leaves

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

1/4 cup simple syrup

1 cup club soda

1/2 cup ice

additional basil leaves and strawberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the strawberries, basil leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup until smooth.

2. In a glass, add the puree and club soda. Stir until well combined.

3. Add ice and garnish with additional basil leaves and strawberries.

Cocktail: Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz vanilla vodka

1 oz cherry liqueur

1/2 oz chocolate liqueur

1/2 oz heavy cream

1/4 oz simple syrup

Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine the vanilla vodka, cherry liqueur, chocolate liqueur, heavy cream, and simple syrup.

2. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.

3. Garnish with chocolate shavings. 

Mocktail: Pink Lemonade Spritz

Ingredients:

1/2 cup fresh raspberries

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup simple syrup

1 cup sparkling water

1/2 cup ice

additional raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the raspberries, lemon juice, and simple syrup until smooth.

2. In a glass, add the puree and sparkling water. Stir until well combined.

3. Add ice and garnish with additional raspberries.

These cocktails and mocktails are easy to make and are sure to be a hit on Valentine's Day. They are perfect for a romantic dinner for two or for a party with friends. So, whether you prefer a cocktail or a mocktail, you're sure to find something you'll love in this list.

LOVEUARY is the new February on Hallmark Channel with the Original Premiere of "Welcome to Mama's" on Saturday, Feb. 26th at 8pm/7c!

Today's post is sponsored by Hallmark Channel 

Can you believe that we are getting ready to close out the month of February already? One of my favorite things about February is the coziness and warmth of the most romantic month of the year. I enjoy all of the festivities surrounding Valentine's Day from the fancy meals, flowers, decadent treats, and just the feeling of love in the air. I particularly enjoy doing special things for my family to show a little extra love. I write little love notes to go in their lunch boxes, as well as send a love-themed treat. Of course you can't enjoy the month of February without Hallmark Channel movies, the go-to destination for romantic movies. It's Where Love Happens! Loveuary is the new February.

 

We are super excited for the last movie premiere in the Hallmark Channel's Loveuary line-up. "Welcome to Mama's" will premiere on Saturday, Feb 26th at 8pm/7c. Welcome to Mama's stars Melanie Scrofano, Daniel di Tomasso and Lorraine Bracco. 

After she inherits an Italian restaurant in Brooklyn, manager Amy teams up with a master chef to relaunch the establishment and make her loved ones proud. You'll have to tune in to find out of she cooks up! 

Be sure to enter the Loveuary Sweepstakes where you can show off your heart hands for a chance to win a prize. Also you can grab virtual backgrounds for your Zoom meetings as well as check out some tasty Loveuary recipes. 

I will be cozied up on the couch with my snacks and drinks to watch the premiere. I will be live-Tweeting @momfiles, and hope you will join me! We'll be giving away (1) $50 Visa Gift Card at the end of the movie, so you won't want to miss that.  

We are also happy to offer a reader giveaway for one winner to win (1) $25 Visa Gift Card. We'd love to know what love means to you. Check out the details below to enter. a Rafflecopter giveaway  

This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and ends on March 7, 2022. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Thanks for stopping by! 

xoxo, Shelly

Say I Love You With Gourmet Gift Baskets This Valentine's Day

It's February which means Valentine's Day is nearing. Sometimes it's hard to know what to give the people you love. One thing that I know for sure is that you cannot go wrong with food-related gifts. I know I love getting tasty treats delivered! Gourmet Gift Baskets has a wide variety of food gifts to please every person's taste. They offer everything from chocolate, cookies, fruit, wine, beer, cheese, crackers, snacks, and more. 

We received the prettiest Valentine's Day Chocolate and Cookies Gift Basket. It came packaged so well, complete with a Valentines-themed greeting card. This lovely basket is filled with sweet, chocolatey yumminess.  

The contents of the Valentine's Day Chocolate and Cookies Gift Basket are: 

Vanilla & Chocolate Sweet Heart Cookies by Rustic Bakery, Chocolate Fudge Slab by Annalie's Chocolates, Cinnamon & Brown Sugar Kettle Corn by GourmetGiftBaskets.com 

Single Box - Magnetic Closure, Chocolate Cubetti by Fusion Gourmet, Vanilla Cubetti by Fusion Gourmet, Chocolate Covered Cherries by Marich, and Red Velvet Cookies by Mississippi Cheese Straw Factory. 

The sweet heart cookies are our favorite. So buttery with a crunchy, yet light texture. They go nicely with a hot cup of tea. The red velvet cookies are simply divine. I really like the little keepsake box with magnetic closure. It's perfect for random little knickknacks, hair ties, costume jewelry and more. 

Let me tell you about that fudge-- it is insanely delicious! It's creamy, rich, not overly sweet. and oh so chocolatey. It's a chocoholic's dream! The one item I refuse to share is the dreamy chocolate covered cherries. It's the perfect treat, and also my favorite brand. This was our first time trying the cinnamon and brown sugar kettle corn, and we really liked it. It has a nice balance of sweetness and flavor. 

All of the goodies in this gift basket are top notch quality, and is a wonderful way to tell someone you love them. In just a few clicks, you can have a gift sent out to everyone on your list. Be sure to check out GourmetGiftBaskets.com for your Valentine's Day gifting. Also, keep them in mind for other occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and even just because. You can even personalize a greeting card to go with it. Trust me, the recipient will love it! 

We want to thank GourmetGiftBaskets.com for sending us this delicious gift to review. All opinions are 100% our own. Thank you for stopping by today! 

The Fresh Market Sampling Events To Spice Up Valentine’s Day

The Fresh Market is a specialty grocer focused on providing fresh, delicious food with friendly service in a warm and inviting atmosphere. From seasonal produce and exceptional meat and seafood, to signature baked goods and thousands of organic options, The Fresh Market is dedicated to offering guests the most delicious ingredients and inspiring meal ideas.

WHAT/WHEN:
For a deliciously romantic dinner without the hassle of restaurant reservations, The Fresh Market is offering its signature Valentine’s Meal for $49.99, now available for pre-order in stores and online until February 11 at 2 p.m. EST. Orders will be available for pick up February 12, 13 and 14 at most store locations (stores in New Orleans and Metairie, Louisiana will be closed on February 13, so meals may be picked up on February 12 and 14). Choose between two Chateaubriand-cut premium choice filet mignons, two North Atlantic cold water lobster tails – or one of each – and serve with Yukon gold whipped potatoes alongside asparagus tips, ready to be perfectly seared. Complete the event with one dozen chocolate dipped strawberries and set the mood with one dozen roses. To place an online order, please visit thefreshmarket.com/valentinesday.

The Fresh Market’s February happenings

The Fresh Market’s 176 store locations warmly welcome guests to experience the following sampling events and meal deals this February:

Custom Sweetheart Ribeye Cutting – February 9-14
Those looking to cook up the romance at home can get help from The Fresh Market’s premium choice Sweetheart Ribeye, available exclusively from February 9-14. The Fresh Market’s expert butchers hand-cut and butterfly each ribeye into the shape of a heart to ensure love at first bite!

Valentine’s Sampling Events – February 10 & 11 from noon-4 p.m.
The “loveliest” day of the year is right around the corner, and The Fresh Market is preparing with samples that will inspire those looking for a “sweet” deal this February 14! From breakfast in bed to a date in the dining room, these decadent tastes are sure to help create memorable moments this Valentine’s Day.

Sampling stations in each department will offer mouthwatering meal ideas: 

• Bite into The Fresh Market’s exclusive swirl breads in seven different flavors, including cinnamon, cinnamon raisin, chocolate chip, cranberry, tomato basil focaccia, Italian olive focaccia and parmesan garlic focaccia. Top cinnamon swirl bread with caramelized nuts and The Fresh Market’s maple syrup for a flavorful French toast.
• Sip on Harney & Sons hot cinnamon spice tea made from a blend of black teas, three types of cinnamon, orange peel and sweet cloves, with no sugar added.
• Sample creamy take and bake hot pepper bacon brie bites on top of Firehook crackers – derived from healthy, simple ingredients. Terrapin Ridge Farms hot pepper bacon jam adds a savory kick to an appetizing snack.
• Enjoy a light dessert of trufru dark chocolate covered strawberries – 100 percent real fruit dipped in sustainably sourced premium dark chocolate.
• Delight in chocolate-dipped strawberry cupcakes to finish off the night! A vanilla cupcake stuffed with strawberry preserves and topped with house-made strawberry buttercream is sure to please. Garnishes include rich dark chocolate shavings and a fresh strawberry hand-dipped in store.

The Fresh Pick Citrus Sampling Events – February 24 & 25 from noon-4 p.m.
Colder weather results in sweeter, juicier citrus fruit – and when picked at its peak, citrus is ripe for blending into everyday meals! To celebrate these tangy tastes of the season, The Fresh Market will offer chef-inspired samples using varieties of oranges, lemons and limes to add zesty flavor to ordinary dishes – while boosting immune systems!

Sampling stations throughout the store inspire cooks to add a variety of flavors to meals:

• Taste sweet, all natural Kennesaw juices comprised of freshly squeezed oranges and pureed strawberries. Pair with Sumo mandarins, heirloom navel oranges and blood oranges for a delightful treat.
• Savor slow cooker Italian pork sausage topped with Stonewall Kitchen rosemary garlic citrus sauce – a versatile and vibrant addition great for marinades, glazes and dipping sauces, or the perfect accent to chicken, rice or vegetable salads.
• Relish in a veggie noodle salad prepared with zucchini and yellow squash noodles – made fresh in store and a healthy substitute for low-carb diets – along with O Meyer lemon olive oil, O citrus champagne vinaigrette, lemon and parmesan cheese for a zesty snack or light bite.
• Try The Fresh Market’s exclusive honey lemon bowtie salad – a refreshing blend of bowtie pasta, sweet mandarin oranges, honey, red and green peppers, red onion and sunflower seeds.
• Indulge in the killer combination of sweet and tart with a key lime pie, made with fresh Nellie & Joe’s lime juice. For the perfect lemon and lime delicacies to finish off a meal, a key lime cake bar or a lemon bar are sure to satisfy any citrus cravings!

New York Strip Cutting on the Floor – February 24 from noon-4 p.m.
For guests seeking a delicious entrée to pair with a citrusy side, The Fresh Market’s New York strip steak is perfect to prepare for a homemade dinner. Located in the meat department, half or whole strips can be custom cut to any desired thickness by any of The Fresh Market’s in-house certified butchers.

Guests may visit thefreshmarket.com for more information and event updates.

WHERE:
The Fresh Market’s 176 store locations nationwide
For local store information, please visit thefreshmarket.com/locatemystore.

Valentine's Gifts For The Tech-Loving Fashionista

Valentine's Day is coming up in a few short weeks and you can't forget to get something special for all the loves of your life. Candy and flowers are sometimes overrated, and most women today prefer more long-lasting, useful gifts. When you really think about it, just about everyone carries a smart phone or other digital devices. If you have a fashion and tech lover in your life, you should check out the gorgeous phone cases, wallets, and clutches from Gresso Miami. Their tech protection products are crafted with eco-leather that can withstand everyday wear and tear. Also, the collections have matching items for those who like to be matchy-matchy.

I received some samples for me and my daughters to test out on our iPhones in the following styles and colors below. The difficult part was deciding who would gets what!

The Allure Collection English Rose Wallet is so beautifully designed and has an excellent grip for your phone, along with a few spots to hold your license or cards conveniently. This one is perfect for the lady who sometimes doesn't want to carry a purse or for when you are going to a venue where you want to carry as little as possible. This wallet retails for $30 and there are other colors and patterns available to suit different tastes.

The Constellation Clutch in burgundy (comes in black too) is also perfect for the gal who prefers to carry less. This pretty clutch has 99 sparkling crystals that makes it perfect to go from day-to-night. It holds a phone up to 5 inches and has multiple slots for bank cards and driver's license. This one retails for $70, but I heard it is supposed to be going on sale for Valentine's Day.

This cute snap-on case is from the Extravaganza collection and has a little bit of a retro flair to it. It is crafted using 3D printing technology and provides the perfect lip along the edges to keep your phone protected. This sophisticated case comes in three colors and is on sale for only $15. This is a bargain!

This last case is from the Shiny Crystals Collection and is perfect for girls who love blingy, shiny things. This contemporary case looks like the crystals are attached directly to your phone. It's so pretty in person and provides great protection for your device. Trust me, this is a girly case that any woman would love! It retails for only $27.

There are so many beautiful choices on the site and if you are looking to give something that looks more Valentine's-y, you should take a peek at the Victorian Gardens Collection. The feminine floral patterns with a vintage twist are sure to please your special Valentine.

Of course Valentine's Day isn't just for the ladies! Gresso Miami carries some very nice cases and wallets for men in their Albion Collection. They have a sharp, masculine look that your guy would appreciate.

If you are in search of the perfect gift for the tech lover in your life, I highly recommend Gresso Miami products. Be sure to follow Gresso Miami on Facebook and Instagram for product updates and sales alerts.

I received products samples for review and all opinions stated are 100% my own as always. 

A Basic Guide To Prepare For Valentine's Day

Hey guys and gals, Valentine's Day is coming soon! I picture in my head husbands and boyfriends doing the last-minute frantic search to find that perfect gift for their sweetie. Sometimes it's a hit, and other times it is a complete miss. Don't fool around and get stuck buying whatever random item you happen to lay your hand on.

Make some time to take advantage of this wonderful thing we have called 'the Internet'. Browse for gifts that reflect the recipient's personality. Does he/she love reading or technology gadgets? Maybe beauty products or specialty foodie items? Surely you can find something online, especially at retailers like Target, which offer tons of discounts and deals.

Remember, we all know what day Valentine's falls on each year, so there is no reason to have to hustle around at the last minute to try to come up with a gift. I know for myself, I like to receive something that I can tell some thought was put into it. I wanted to share this fun infographic I stumbled upon browsing the web that happens to fall in line with Valentine's Day-- Chocolate!

Check out some of these interesting and fun facts about chocolate and this is your official reminder (wink) to start looking around for that perfect Valentine's gift. If all else fails, practical is the way to go. Whether it's kitchen gadgets, food items, technology accessories, clothing or personal care items, it's truly the thought that counts. Happy shopping!


Chocolate Industry Stats by Couponbox

Bring The Spa Home For Less This Valentine's Day

One of the things I'm sure many moms can agree on is that we never take enough for ourselves. We are constantly trying to shuttle kids around, cook, clean, tackling mountains of laundry, and we tend to feel frazzled by dinnertime. Going to a spa sounds like a great idea, but the reality is that it's just not doable for most of us. Besides the cost involved, there is that time issue. Well why not bring the spa home to you? 

By having some simple items, you can feel pampered and relaxed without stepping foot outside of your home.

The Home Spa Treatment System by Instrumental Beauty is a great first step. This amazing tool is a 4-in-1 and is made for your body, face and feet. It has 4 attachment heads that include an over-sized rotary brush for the body, smaller one for face, a micro-dermabrasion sponge and a pedi smoothing stone.

This tool come with 4 AA batteries and packs a lot of power. It is a great way to feel like you had a mini spa session. It scrubs away dead skin to reveal your natural glow and to restore smoothness. I keep mine on the side of my tub for daily use, because why not! This home spa system can be purchased for only $30. I know you or someone you love is worth that. I'm sure you will not get any type of spa service for that price. Also to go along with your spa system, you need a good bath and shower gel. The Yardley Lavender and Rosemary is perfect! It is made with lavender essential oil and will calm your senses. At only $4.99, it's a great value. Definitely way less than the boutique brands, and just as effective. It's available at Walgreens, Rite-Aid, Publix and more.

Make sure you don't forget your lips. Yes, even your lips should be pampered. Lypsyl Ultra Soothing lip balm is a simple way to make your lips kissably soft and smooth. Formulated from all-natural, pure Swedish beeswax, and a combination of natural and therapeutic ingredients like organic Shea butter, coconut oil, Vitamin E and Vitamin A, Lypsyl provides unsurpassed moisture and lip protection. It’s only $2.99 and comes in Chamomile & Honey or Original Mint. You can purchase it at Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Rite-Aid and other retailers nationwide.

These items would make a great gift for Valentine's Day or as a just because gift. I'm thinking ahead of Mother's Day as well. Don't forget your co-workers, moms, sisters, girlfriends, teachers and YOURSELF!

I received product samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% my own as always.  

Celebrating Your Girlfriends on Gal-entine’s Day

Haven’t heard of Gal-entine’s Day, yet? It’s high time you started observing this wonderful celebration of female friendship. Originally coined by Amy Poehler’s character Leslie Knope on the hit NBC show “Parks and Recreation”, this occasion is celebrated on February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day. It’s meant to commemorate the beautiful bond and love between best friends, and if you’ve got a great crew of gals you adore, you need to celebrate your friendships and give a nod to the many different but just as wonderful types of love in your life.

Gifting isn’t Just for Lovers
Give your best gal pals a token of your appreciation for their friendship with some sweet and sentimental presents this Gal-entine’s Day. Skip the stale presents and make your besties feel like queens with some heartfelt presents you know they’ll adore. Whether it’s friendship bracelets (those aren’t just for preteens you know!) or tickets to a show you know all of you will enjoy, sweet little presents will definitely have your besties feeling the love.

A Fun Project
Want to keep busy while you’re hanging out? Provide all the supplies for a fun DIY project. Whether it’s making a dream board of all the hopes and wishes you all have for the future using pictures and terms cut out of a magazine, or a wonderfully scented homemade shower scrub, you’ll laugh over your arts and crafts project and leave the evening with a fun memento of the fun times you had that evening.

Paint ’N Wine Night
If you haven’t done a paint and wine night yet, you’re missing out. There are tons of companies in every big city that offer evenings where you and your girlfriends can get firsthand instruction from an artist and create a copycat painting masterpiece, all while sipping on alcoholic beverages and eating yummy appetizers. You’ll all go home at the end of the night with a new painting to hang on your wall, and every time you see it hanging on your wall in the future you’ll smile and think of the amazing women in your life.

Karaoke Night
What better way to spend an evening celebrating love than singing your heart out to some ballads with your besties? Head to a local karaoke bar and pick your favorite jams, sing some duets, and rock out to girl groups for a celebration that will have you losing your voice (all in good fun, of course!)

Television Binging
What is a night in front of the television without some delicious snacks? Order in food and have it delivered from a company like DoorDash, or do it smorgasbord style with a yummy charcuterie and cheese board, mini sliders, and chocolate berries from a company like Shari’s Berries. Celebrate women by picking movies with female leads: think Katniss from “Hunger Games” or the funny, singing gals from “Pitch Perfect”.

For Far Away Besties
If your best friend lives far away but you still want to let her know you’re thinking of her, send a fun card that will provide a happy surprise come February 13th  when she checks her mailbox. Plan a Skype date to catch up and get all the details on any Valentine’s plans you two might be celebrating with the lucky fellas in your lives.

A Girl’s Trip
If you and your friends are all single for the Valentine’s holiday, then you’ve got the entire weekend to work with for your Gal-entine’s celebrations (no wallowing about not being a relationship necessary, ladies). Go out on a sweet getaway weekend that will have you all feeling rejuvenated come the following Monday. What about a wine tasting weekend with a side of luxury spa treatments? Or perhaps you’ll head out on a ski weekend to make the most of the snow still clinging to the ground as winter winds its way down. Whatever it is that you like to do, plan a last-minute trip and celebrate with the girls who know you best.

Romantic relationships can come and go, but your best friends are always there for you, so make sure you celebrate all the types of love in your life this February.

Feb 13th is Valentine’s for Dogs – Say I LOVE YOU with treats! #ValentinesForDogs (Giveaway)

It's officially the Valentine's season and we give flowers, chocolates and gifts with those we love the most. Of course, we can't forget our fur babies. Dogs give so much unconditional love to their families that we must give some love back. This year, let's celebrate our wonderful animal companions by making February 13th Valentine's Day For Dogs (#valentinesfordogs).  On this day, we make sure we're also giving our pups the attention they deserve. How? I might take them out for a special walk at their favorite dog park, buy them a fluffy and comfy pet bed, or give them Milk-Bone dog treats. The good folks at Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni, Milo's Kitchen, and Canine Carry Outs have made it easy for you this year with a doggie Valentine's Day card.

Aren't these cards adorable? Aside from my dog, I think the neighbor's dogs would appreciate a special Valentine's treat from their dog buddy.  Get yours today at https://www.bigheartpetvalentines.com/  They are super easy to download and print. All you do is cut them out, insert a special treat and share with your favorite dog pals.

Also, check out this fun info graphic with hilarious findings about pets and their pet parents. It is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

If you participate in any Valentine's activities with you dog, be sure to share on social media using the #ValentinesForDogs hashtag directed at @milkbone.

How would you like to win an assortment of treats to spoil your pup with? Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on February 18, 2015. Winner will be contacted via email to claim prize. Mom Files does not directly ship prizes and is NOT responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Disclosure: I received a prize pack in exchange for spreading the word about the doggy Valentine's from Milk-Bone and hosting a reader giveaway. All opinions are my own. 

Valentine's Getaway for Parents at Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts #MyMyrtleBeach

My family visits Myrtle Beach several times a year and have stayed at a couple of the Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts locations. The beach is the perfect getaway no matter what time of year it is and oceanfront accommodations makes it even better. We being able to be soothed and refreshed by the sounds of the ocean, while being able to get to restaurants and shopping nearby. With Valentine's Day coming up, Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts announces their ‘Be Mine!’ Valentine’s Day Package.

Celebrate with Oceanfront Accommodations, Romantic Dinner, Champagne and More

Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts (MBSR) – operator of the area’s premier oceanfront condo-hotel and vacation rental properties – announces the release of its “Be Mine” Valentine’s Day package.

Available at five MBSR resorts (Avista, Grande Shores, Horizon at 77th, Prince and Seaside) from Feb. 11-18, 2015, the “Be Mine” features oceanfront accommodations, champagne, chocolates, Valentine’s balloon bouquet and rose petal turndown service. Bookings at select properties also include a romantic dinner at area eateries like Just Off Main, 3500 and Shoreline Café, as well as breakfast in bed.

Rates start at $281 and are based on a two-night stay for two adults in a one-bedroom condo.

“We’re rolling out the red carpet this upcoming Valentine’s Day with one of our best holiday offers in recent memory,” says Jim Eggen, General Manager of MBSR. “Day-time highs that frequently hit the 60s and 70s are perfect for exploring the Grand Strand’s renowned sugar sand beaches, exceptional shopping, diverse dining options and other calling cards.”

Myrtle Beach is within a half-day’s drive of population centers like Washington D.C., Raleigh, Charlotte and Atlanta. Moreover, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is conveniently located to all MBSR properties. Serviced by Delta, Continental, Spirit Airlines and US Airways, it features daily, nonstop flights to over 25 destinations including Philadelphia, Baltimore, Newark, N.J. and Chicago.

For additional information and reservations: Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts, 888.571.4104.

About Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts

Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts is a collection of six oceanfront and ocean view condo-hotels in North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Avista Resort, Prince Resort, Horizon at 77th, Grande Shores, Seaside and the Towers at North Myrtle Beach all provide the comforts of full-service resort hotels with the space and luxury of condominiums.

Each property features modern décor that reflects a coastal lifestyle and breathtaking views of the pristine northern region of the world-famous Grand Strand. Elegant yet affordable, units are spacious one to three bedrooms with fully-equipped kitchens, washer / dryer, and private balconies. Most hotels have fitness centers, an array of indoor and outdoor pools, on-site dining and access to world-class beaches.