Writing your Valentine's Day message need not be daunting, it should come straight from the heart. Card makers make millions on frilly cards as those who think they can't write can find just the right words to tell their loved ones how they feel.

I've watched people take time to read cards only to replace them on the shelves because they just weren't quite right. That's why I usually make my cards. In the time I try to make a decision on the card with the words I want to say then I could have made one of my own.

First step to writing your own card is to get a blank card. You can get these in a package from your local retail store or card shop for about $3 to $5 for a package of 6. Most can be used with computers and if not a felt pen and construction paper will work.

Magazines are a wonderful place to get artwork to make a card. Simply find the picture you want and glue to your project.

Next comes the hard part, writing the message. Messages inside the card neither be rhyming or especially long. If you simply have to have a rhyming verse but you're not especially good at writing poetry yourself, look up poetry and copy the verse in your card. Simply add the name of the author to the bottom of your card.

Another idea is to list the things you really like about the person. Maybe write "Things That Make You Special" inside and then list the things about that person. One of the hardest task a person has in life would be to list good things about themselves, thus a positive card helps a person see their good qualities as others see them. An example of this could be as simple as "I love the way you smile" or "I love how you can be spontaneous."

Valentine's cards are a wonderful way to let the person know just how much they mean to you. Writing down your thoughts about the one you love shows you cared enough to take the time to put down on paper how you feel. This adds the personal touch that store bought cards just don't offer.

A Valentine for your child can be as simple as letting them know how blessed you are to have them. Simply write something like "I am lucky to have a Valentine like you. Because you are a very special kid." The thought is there and will last a lot longer than the card. Most kids would rather have candy than a card but at least you let them know they are special.

For Mothers and Fathers it's as simple as thanking them for all they've done for you. Perhaps something as corny as "The love you've passed on to me, will be passed on to your future generations. Thanks for all you've done. Happy Valentine's Day!

Writing in a card should not be overwhelming just thoughtful. Try it on a scrap piece of paper to see how it looks in print. Read it aloud to hear how it sounds. Even write a couple of versions to see which you like best. But the single most important way to write your own card is to write from the heart.

I would much rather have hand written cards with corny words than a store bought card that others will also receive. The homemade cards I have received from my family are kept in a special place so others can see them. They also let me know I'm not taken for granted but am truly a special person.

Learn more about this author, Dee Cain.
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