Valentine's Day is this week. Many people choose not to celebrate Valentine's Day, even if they are in a romantic relationship. The theory is that we should be showing our affection and romantic natures every day of the year. However I, and many others I know, love Valentine's Day. Special days break us out of the ordinary routine of life, and remind us of our many blessings.

     Just because you want to celebrate Valentine's Day doesn't mean that you have to spend a lot of money. You and your husband can have a day of appreciating each other without dropping a lot of cash or splashing out on jewelry. Also, Valentine's Day falls on a weekday this year, and it can be a bit hard to get motivated to go out at that time. With a little thought, any wife can put the air of romance back in a household and remind your husband of why he wanted you so much to be his bride in the first place. Remember, when you're in need of putting some spark back in your marriage, don't forget to call "ANNIE":

APPEARANCE: Men and women are visual creatures. We really are; and for most men a beautiful woman can make their evening. It can be hard to get all dolled up but a new coat of lipstick, the proper undergarments (that puts everything back into place if you know what I mean) and a pretty blouse in "your" color can turn your man's head in no time. When we were first dating my husband remarked that he loved my eyes and now, whenever I'm trying to catch his attention I put just an extra 30 seconds into my eye makeup. Smoky eyes, pouty lipstick, or swept-up hair a la fifties-bombshell can bring out the Cary Grant in most men.

NO-NAGGING: I know, it's hard. There's so much to be done at home, but really, try not to unload on your husband on Valentine's Day. Of course, some things can't be avoided but try not to bring up the wonky disposal or the loose shutter today. All those things will get done eventually, but a little bit of honey-do procrastination won't hurt anyone for one day.

NOTICE DIFFERENCES: Men and women are different, and their idea of a wonderful Valentine's Day and ours might be different. So this year, try and woo them a bit. Who says men should have all the fun with planning for Valentine's Day? Ask your man to go bowling, or mini-golf or to an arcade. Men generally love competition and a friendly round of darts at a local pub or having him "show you" how to be a better pool player can raise his confidence and make the two of you have fun. Even thumb-wrestling can bring a lot of giggles or playing poker together (you can use household chores in lieu of betting money).

INTEREST: Remember how on those first dates there was always SO much to talk about? Stories to tell, things to ask. After awhile, you already know the stories, but that doesn't mean the interest has to die out. Ask your man questions. Try to avoid questions that will produce eye rolls such as, "Hubby what are your hopes and dreams" and instead try things such as, "If you had a million dollars, what kind of car would you want?" Or, "If you could buy any football team, what would you buy?" Even if you, like me, are ignorant about cars and most sports teams hearing your man get excited about such things can create an atmosphere of intimacy.

ENVIRONMENT: Try and make home as pleasing to the senses as possible for this special night. Bake something that will fill the house with a wonderful smell (think bread, chocolate cake or any meat that cooks in gravy). If your man is a drinker, try and get a special brew: spring for a lager instead of the regular beer or a more-aged whiskey. Hubby a fan of mysteries? Old Time Radio shows can be listened to online and give home a great, classy ambience. Or even better, go out of your way to remind your husband how wonderful a provider he is, or how thankful you are that he's around.

     We women always wish that our husband and boyfriends will transform into the ultimate romantic on V-Day. That he will be handsome, and clever and cater to our wishes. This Valentine's Day, try and give your husband that same experience. Delicious and easy, make this awesome muffins for your man for Valentine's Day. They would be great to pack in his lunch, or for breakfast before he goes to work that morning!

Super-moist Banana Muffins

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C. Butter and flour 12 baking tins, or use muffin liners.

2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 tsp apple pie spice

1 cup white sugar

3 ripe bananas, mashed

3/4 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup of dried fruit or chocolate chips

1. In a large bowl combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, pie spice and sugar. In a separate bowl whisk together mayo and milk. Add bananas and mix until thoroughly combined. Add vanilla extract.

2. Slowly add the flour mixture to the bowl of mayo mixture. Stir until combined, batter may be slightly lumpy. Add in dried fruit or chocolate chips.

3. Fill muffin tins 2/3 of the way full with batter. Bake in over for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool in pan for 2 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.