Unemployed? 20 Inexpensive Ways to Show Yourself Some Love on Valentine’s Day

I was thinking of what I could possibly write that relates the unemployed and struggling to Valentine’s Day. Then, it came to me: This is a perfect time to show yourself some love and affection. And who needs that more than you?

I came up with 20 ways you can give yourself a big hug this Sunday. They’re cheap and easy…just like me. Kidding! 🙂

1. Hit up a matinée. Garry Marshall’s “Valentine’s Day” hits theaters today. Most of the Oscar-nominated films are out, too.
2. Download a few new songs from iTunes.
3. Treat yourself to a small piece of costume jewelry like earrings or a bracelet. Target’s got cute guilt-free options.
4. Take time away from your computer to dive into that cheesy chick lit book that’s sitting on your bedside table.
5. Head over to your neighborhood chocolatier and buy a couple of sinfully divine truffles or even just a mug of decadent hot chocolate. Yes, with whipped cream. Yes, with chocolate shavings. 
6. Invite your closest friends over to share a nice bottle of wine. This is the time to splurge on that $25 or $30 bottle you’ve been eyeing.
7. Go to church. For the faithful, nothing is more uplifting than some quiet time with God or an inspiring sermon from your favorite spiritual leader.
8. Join the girls for brunch at a cute café with all-you-can-drink mimosas or Bloody Marys.
9. Let yourself be lazy. Pile up on the couch with a blanket and watch hours of Lifetime or Hallmark Channel movies. Go ahead…no one’s watching!
10. Visit your local bookstore and treat yourself to a gorgeous magazine you normally don’t read.
11. Pick up some new lingerie. Again, Target has cute bras, panties and nighties. Loehmann’s also has a great selection.
12. Manicure/Pedicure. Duh.
13. A tube of lipstick or bottle of nail polish. I love bright colors from Chanel, MAC, Essie and OPI. Drugstore brands are great, too!
14. Take a bubble bath. My favorite indulgence by far.
15. Buy yourself a bouquet of flowers at the market. FTD doesn’t have to make a delivery to be cheered by a bright bunch of blooms.
16. Get the kids out of the house for the afternoon.
17. Bundle up and take a long stroll somewhere you can enjoy beautiful outdoor scenery. 
18. Buy the best candle you can afford at a cute gift shop you normally don’t visit. Light it, take a deep breath and close your eyes.
19. Did you cut out Starbucks when you lost your job. Not today you don’t!
20. Have a hot afternoon of sex with your partner–it costs virtually nothing. That is, unless you forget protection!

What are you planning to do this Valentine’s Day?