Chris and I are not big Valentine’s day people. Even when we were dating, we didn’t make a big deal out of the day. I think one year, before we were engaged, we ate White Castles on my couch and then fell asleep while watching a movie. It was uber-romantic.
But Valentine’s day for kids? That’s another story.
I {love} celebrating things if I can get my kids involved. And this cute Valentine mailbox craft is how we’re getting the party started this year.
I bought the mailboxes at the Dollar Spot at Target and scored the red stands at the Salvation Army. I originally went to the thrift store looking for candlestick holders that I would spray paint, but there were no candlestick holders in the whole store. I found these just as I was about to give up. And the best part? I didn’t even have to spray paint them.
Decorate the outside (or leave it blank)–I just used supplies I had around the house and then hot glued the mailbox to the base.
I’m planning on setting these out February 1st and then the week leading up to Valentine’s day, a new surprise will appear daily. Maybe during the night or during naptime. I’m not sure exactly when, but Ellie will know to look when the little arm is up. I can’t wait for her to see them. She’s going to flip her lid when she learns she can check her mailbox every day for a treat.
And the treats are nothing expensive or fancy. I’m just using what we’d give her on Valentine’s day and spreading them out to extend the fun. A package of stickers, some fuzzy heart socks, red and white candy, a bouncy ball–little surprises that go over big with three year olds. And for Harper, animal crackers, a new teething ring, some little baby socks, and, perhaps, a new pacifier.
This is such a great idea! I hope you don’t mind if I steal it. We love holidays around here too!
Please do! Lilly will love it, I’m sure. 🙂
New follower & love this idea. we are doing the chair backer with goodies the week of valentines day (this week) but I am so digging the mailboxes!
Hannah