In grammar school every year we would each make Valentine Boxes for Valentine’s Day. We made them out of shoe boxes, wrapping paper, and stickers. Then we brought them to school and put them on our desks and in them our friends would put candy—especially those little hearts with messages on them—and other treats.
I resurrected this tradition at the Mothering offices back in the day and everyone loved it. It’s fun for adults as well as children. We gave each other candy, pencils, cards, and inspirational quotes.
The Valentine Boxes are not always boxes. Our busy and creative staff made them out of many different containers. Here are some examples:
CARDBOARD BOX
BOWLS AND CUPS
METAL COOKIE TIN
LONG FANCY BOX
SMALL BUCKET
Use your imagination and have fun making your Valentine Boxes. Make them at home with the family and/or at work with your colleagues. Give people a few day’s notice to get their “box” ready and then treat your friends and loved ones with anything from homemade goodies to store bought candy to a simple love note. Don’t forget to put your name on your box.
The Valentine Boxes make everyone feel included and are fun for all ages. Make the tradition your own. Send me photos of your Valentine’s Boxes. I’d love to see what you come up with.
Photos by Laura Egley Taylor
About Peggy O’Mara. I am an independent journalist who edits and publishes peggyomara.com. I was the editor and publisher of Mothering Magazine for over 30 years and founded Mothering.com in 1995. My books include Having a Baby Naturally, Natural Family Living, The Way Back Home and A Quiet Place. I have conducted workshops at Omega Institute, Esalen, La Leche League, and Bioneers. I am the mother of four and grandmother of three. Please check out my email newsletter with free tips on parenting, activism, and healthy living.
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