DIY Life

Last semester I sat in a painful economics class wishing I was home with my family. I thought it would be fun to write my husband a note. Here's is that note, in it's entirety:

Dear Jay,

I feel like chatting with you - but I don't have email or IM in this class. I guess I'll have to resort to a good old note. Funny - I don't think I've written a note in class in a very long time!

So... howz it going - damn! This is different than IM.

I so obviously failed at my attempt in writing him a note. I've decided to take it one step further and write a love letter (no, I won't post that in its entirety!). While there aren't really any rules, it's hard to know where to start. Follow me through the break and I'll share 5 important elements of a love letter.

1. Choose your paper and pen with care
   If your recipient is a woman she may appreciate this more, but either way, it helps to choose a nice paper and write with a good pen. This shows that you didn't just grab a napkin out of the glove-box, but put some real thought and care into the letter. Consider favorite colors, textures or prints when choosing your stationary.
   
   
2. Open with your reason for writing
   Let your reader know why you've decided to write the letter. It is a huge honor to be the subject of romantic writing, let them know what motivated you to write for them at this time. What were you thinking of feeling that prompted you to put this all in writing?
   
   
3. Find a balance between tangible and abstract compliments
   If all your compliments are about how attractive you find him or about the way she smells, they might start to wonder if you're listening when the two of you talk. Find that balance between how great she looks in the morning or his handsome smile and her unusual ability to win every argument or the way he can fix just about anything. It is a romantic letter, but let them know that you're affection isn't limited to the romantic stuff. People love hearing how you notice their talents and interest too. Take time to point out little things. Nothing is too small for a love letter. If it's part of why you like that person, it belongs.
   
   
4. Use plain speech
   It might be tempting to try and craft a love letter coated in elaborate verses, but it will only sound insincere and fake. Write the way you talk and it will sound most natural and honest. Stream of consciousness usually works best. If you want to include traditional sounding verses, add a famous quote about love that describes how you feel.
   
   
5. Sealed, stamped and delivered
   Don't just pass the note across the dinner table. Even if you live together, try sending it to her by post and she'll have a wonderful surprise when she goes to get the mail. If he's going on a trip, slip it in his suitcase so he'll find it when he's missing you. Think of something creative that is fitting for you as a couple, but have fun with your ideas.