Ten Unique & Healthy Ways to Say "I Love You"

Love may be a many splendid thing, but how often do we share those warm fuzzy feelings with those around us? Especially when the relationship isn't all that smooth or fresh? Romantic relationship or not, you likely have love-relationships with a variety of people.

A spouse, a sister, a dad, a grandma, a daughter.... perhaps a friend you can't imagine life without, maybe even your dog? Well, this top ten doesn't really cover the needs of canines, so hopefully you have a human interest you can shower with affection.

If anything positive will come from the horrible Westroads Mall shooting, at Von Maur in Omaha Nebraska on December 5th, let it be this... remind yourself just how fragile life is. It should almost be stamped with the warning... "handle with care". We simply cannot predict what unimaginably twisted and senseless path might cross our own, or the path of someone we love.

One of the most common mistakes we make in relationships, is failure to remind those we love how special they are. The best time to express this love isn't on a birthday, it's not at Christmas, not when you've had a few drinks and it feels more comfortable, and it's certainly not something you put off until one of you is sick or near death.

Trust me when I say this... the sentiment means so much more when it's completely out of the blue. So, here are ten healthy, inexpensive, and anytime ways to express your love to someone of nearly any age or love-relationship:

1. Surprise them with their favorite desert... homemade by you. Cut out a little paper heart from colored construction paper or card stock and write the words... "you're special", "wonderful friend", or "happiness is you". Then place the heart on or next to the desert plate. If you're not one to bake, even better. Think about the sentiment... not so much the outcome of the special treat.

2. Write a poem... a silly one, a serious one, whatever you wish... and make it personal so they know it's just for and/or about them. Include fun things you've done together or inside jokes they'll be sure to appreciate.