Where does time GO?! I’m just starting to accept that it’s 2012 and BOOM! Here comes Valentine’s Day! Though I can hardly pick a favorite holiday (I truly love them all – any day to celebrate or make extra special is a super day in my book!), there is just something about the general girliness that Valentine’s Day brings.

Since my loving hubby isn’t the romantic type, I get lost in the holiday by dreaming about cutesy decorations, yummy edibles, and things that I could buy for myself. If I could put this holiday into pictures, this is what it would look like:

Macaroons

I know it’s the sweet treat of the season, and though I’ve never eaten one that was made by a professional, I respect anyone who makes them. They are not easy, and it’s especially not easy to make them look perfect. And let’s be honest – I love anything that contains sugar. If you’re thinking of making some, check out this post for some tips.

Perfect Packaging

If a present is wrapped perfectly and adorably, does it really matter what’s inside?! (JK, don’t answer that!) I am such a sucker for gift wrap and pretty packages, even mason jars which some believe are “so overdone”. But hey, at least after the gift has been given, a jar can still be used again! A gift that keeps on giving, perhaps. Love the jar above? Find it here, along with free printables! (Note: If you haven’t visited eighteen25 before, you are in for a TREAT!! J’adore.)

Glitter

As a sorority girl, my heart is actually made up of 1/4 glitter. Didn’t ya’ know? I do love sparkly things, especially around Valentine’s Day! The cute little heart + skewers decorations would be super cute in a cupcake, drink (use as a stir stick), or hey, sticking out of any part of your lunch. It’s Valentine’s Day after all, go crazy! DIY ‘em. Image spotted on Row House Nest via Project Wedding.

Wreaths

Perfect for any season and occasion! Wreaths have been given a serious makeover since I was little (they are so much more than pine or grapevine branches these days!), and I simply adore them. For this particular holiday, the girlier the better! If you like the one above, you can make your own! Find directions here.

Jewelry

Always a great gift idea (from your significant other or as a treat for yourself ). I have adored this particular ring for some time, which is copper dipped in rubber (seafoam rubber to be precise). So, Happy Valentine’s Day to me – just ordered this baby!

Pretty Mugs

Though hearts aren’t my most favorite motif in the world (I don’t dislike them, but I usually go for dots, stripes, or more unusual shapes), around Valentine’s Day, I adore them. I’m happy to see them on everything. If you drink a lot of coffee or tea, why not sip out of a super cute cup (or hey, even tacky will do)! I like this particular one from West Elm. At $6, they’d make a great gift, stuffed with some hot chocolate mix or some tea bags!

Flowers

Another thing I usually purchase for myself. I’m pretty sure it’s a proven fact that flowers put people in better moods (don’t quote me on that, but I did read an article about it once…) I adore peonies, ranunculus, dahlias, unique roses, hydrangea….the list goes on. Get yourself a tiny vase and a single stem and voila! Instant day brightener!

Striped Straws

I don’t really use straws, but these are just so darn cute! Probably so cute that if I had them, I wouldn’t use them so that I could continue to look at them. But hey, if you’re having a gathering or just want to brighten up your desk a little, try grabbing a few of these!