For Valentine’s Day or any day of the year, it is nice to do something special for your loved one, whether it is a significant other, family member or yourself. Whether you are in a relationship or not, romance can be an everyday occurrence when you romance your home.

Every day is a special occasion and these suggestions for your home can play a big part in improving your life. When we feel good, we perform better in every area of our lives. We can create a romantic atmosphere by stimulating the five senses of sight, touch, sound, smell and taste. If you believe in the law of attraction, creating a romantic environment can create the space to draw romance to us.

Sight: Surround yourself with the things and colors that make you happy. It can be artwork, photos, wall color, decorative accessories or a view to the outdoors. Dim the overhead lighting, you want romance not interrogation. Soft ambient lighting from candles, fireplace or a lamp can all create a cozy, warm environment. Don’t forget the fresh flowers.

Touch: Add luxurious fabric and texture to the home via comfy throws, satin, silk or furry pillows or area rugs. Soft faux fur throws are wonderful to snuggle under especially on a cold frigid night whether it is with your honey, your kids or just yourself.

Sound: Music soothes the savage beast. It can be relaxing or energizing, depending on your mood and taste. The sounds from a wind chime or water fountain can be very relaxing. I ask Alexa to play ocean sounds when I’m in relaxation mode.

Taste: One word: Chocolate. Savor the chocolate pieces by mindfully allowing it to melt in your mouth. Chocolate covered strawberries, a strawberry added to champagne or chocolate fondue (recipe below) are all sensual, delicious options.

Smell: Scented candles or air diffusers in your favorite scent can add fragrance to your home.

How to make your own reed diffuser:

• Glass bottle with a narrow opening
• 4-5 reed diffuser sticks or bamboo skewers
• ¼ cup of light carrier oil: sweet almond oil or safflower oil with a splash of rubbing alcohol or vodka
• 20-25 drops of essential oils

So easy to create a diffuser: mix, stir, and set. Turn the reeds upside down every so often to stimulate the fragrance. So many options: vanilla, lavender, citrus, peppermint, rosemary, etc. A nice combo would be bergamot & patchouli.

Chocolate Fondue Recipe

1 cup Cream

12 oz Toblerone Chocolate Bars broken to pieces

2-3 T  Kahlua or Cognac or Frangelico or your favorite liqueur

I have an electric fondue pot, but you can use a saucepan.

Directions: In a medium saucepan, bring the cream to a simmer. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate. Let stand long enough for the chocolate to begin to melt. Add the liqueur and whisk until smooth. Transfer mixture to a ceramic fondue pot and keep warm. Dip bite sized pieces of dippers listed below.

Fondue Dippers

• Strawberries
• Banana slices
• Grapes
• Marshmallows
• Orange quarters
• Pineapple
• Apple slices
• Kiwi slices
• Pear slices
• Dried apricots
• Doughnuts
• Pretzels
• Pound or Angel Food Cake

By creating a romantic, sensual space, you will feel special in your own home. What a wonderful way to start and end your day all year round.