We visited the library the other day, with with the kids from the daycare. Trying to amuse them indoors after another day of 35 below weather, we decided to treat them to a film. I didn't really want to watch the cartoon so I grabbed a book from the shelves. It wasn't by accident I picked the one that I did as I was curious about what the author had to say. I had no commitment to reading the book in its entirety. I just wanted a little escape from Franklin the Turtle and to just flip through the pages. The book I chose was Mars and Venus Together Forever. I was curious to see what the hype was all about. It sucked me in and I couldn`t put it down even though some parts were a little cheesy.
"Man thrives on appreciation because it directly nurtures his male side. A woman thrives on communication because it directly nurtures her female side."
"Hmmm", I thought. Could it be as simple as appreciation and communication? I don't know, but it sounds like a great start! So, on Valentine's Day, to show our appreciation for the men in our lives, here is my top 5 great Canadian made gifts for your man.
1. The Chevrolet Camaro - Oh yeahh! Find out all the details on the Buy Canadian First member page of the Chevy Camaro. Gorgeous, safe and efficient! Think of all the fun you'll have cruising around!
2. Lucky Strike - The things that we have in common glue us together and the things we don`t, keep us interesting. As much as a couple are stitched together and, somedays they are all that the other needs, we still need to do the things we enjoy as individuals. So whether it be golf, woodworking or fishing, get him a small token like these great lures from our member Lucky Strike to encourage him to take some down time doing the things he enjoys.
3. Go hide in your cave - So your Mister comes home at the end of the day and you are filled with information; important dates, tales from the day, a rant or two and of course, we can`t forget to tell him to take out the trash. You can`t help but notice that he`s not quite there. Instead he is occupied with the news, the sports updates or the newspaper rather than giving you his undivided attention. In the book, it is described as `being in the cave` and eventually he`ll emerge and be all ears, but while he`s there, consider some books from his favourite authors at Chapters-Indigo or a subscription from Canadian Magazines to help take his mind off the day.
4. The summer position - Just as an armchair in the living room is a welcomed treat so, too, would be comfy seating for the balmy summer days. Imagine a sultry, summer evening of giggling children, a thirsty garden, a thirsty couple enjoying some beer (my pick would be from Half Pints Brewing Company), watering the garden, hand in hand, while lounging in this great love seat lodge chair by Jardinique. Those are the days you'll remember 40 years from now.
5. Sleep on it - We spend one third of our lives in bed sleeping and what not, and as I age little, I find little comforts such as a good bed really make the difference. Treat your guy to the promise of a restful night (or *wink) with the fabulous line of mattresses from our member Essentia.
"When a man is appreciated, he will summon up the energy and motivation to do still more."
Really though, isn't that the truth for us all? This Valentine's day, and, frankly every single day, don`t forget to smother him with tight squishy hugs and long slow kisses.
How are you telling your man you adore him? Share your Valentine day ideas with us.
Photo credits: Buy Candadian First members Chevrolet, Lucky Strike, Chapters Indigo, Jardinique, Essentia
Quote credits Gray, J. (1996). Mars and Venus Together Forever