Valentine Gift Ideas + Weekend Baking + Date Night Dresses for $50

This weekend was a nice break from the usual crazy, busy weekend. On Friday, I had rehearsal for the production of Legally Blonde at the high school where I teach. I'm playing the role of Elle Woods' mother and am also a juror in act 2 of the play. It's so much fun to be back on stage and relive my theater days.

Natalia and Alexia bought some valentine treats for their friends and had fun shopping for little gifts. I've already bought their treats (shhhh!!!) and am eager for them to see their gifts. Although many people associate the color red with Valentine's Day, I prefer pink.

Today's gift guide features things in a wide variety of price points. The bath ice cream, conversation heart gift towel, the set of conversation heart cookie cutters, and the fortune telling book of love are all under $15. The pink polka dot pajama top is on super sale for less than $10! I love the unique tassel on the leather tote bag and you'll be surprised at the reasonable price. Of course, the Kate Spade watch is more of a splurge, but it's something that you could wear all year.

Bath Ice Cream  //  Candy Hearts Dish Towel  //  Big Buddha Abigale Tote  //  Conversation Heart Cookie Cutters   //  Kate Spade Heart Watch  //  Fortune-Telling Book of Love  //  Polka-Dot PJ Top

Since Valentine's Day falls on a Saturday this year, it's a perfect opportunity for a date night with your sweetheart. The Pink Bubble Texture Bow Dress reminds me of something that Grace Kelly would have worn, with elegant mid-length short sleeves and unique fabric. The A-line waist will flatter your shape. No need to break the bank for this dress that will win dozens of compliments; it's on sale right now.

dress

I found the next dress in an unexpected place...the junior's department of Nordstrom. While the girls were trying on clothes, I browsed the department to find some things for them and ended up finding something for myself. Oops! The Pink Skater Dress fit me well and hit just above the knee on my 5'4" frame. I did size up to a medium (I wear a 4 or 6 in Lilly Pulitzer) in this dress and it was perfect.



dress

Natalia and Alexia helped me to make some red velvet cupcakes! We doctored up an ordinary cake mix and added some valentine sprinkles to top our treats. I think that the girls did a great job of decorating.

Are you shopping for Valentine's Day?

xoxo