3 easy ways to sweeten someone's Valentine's Day

Nearly everyone has more than one special person in their life. Whether it's a neighbor who lets the dog out, the friend who watches the kids in a pinch or a colleague who makes Mondays a little more bearable, loved ones make our days better. A simple thank you or a small thank-you gift can go a long way in showing those people just how much you appreciate them.

A recent survey revealed that most people do have multiple "loves" in their lives. In fact, significant others aren't the only ones who get Valentine's Day gifts these days. This survey, which was commissioned by Rich Products, showed that Valentine's Day now extends way beyond that one special person. Forty-four percent of people said they purchase gifts for multiple people on Valentine's Day. When asked to identify their "other loves," friends were at the top of the list; and surprisingly, among their favorite gifts were fresh baked goods ranging from cookies, cupcakes and other sweet treats.

So to sweeten your relationships all year round, small thank-you gifts are both welcomed and appreciated. And keep in mind it's not the size of the gift that matters. Survey results show that good things come in small, personalized packages.

To get started, remember showing your appreciation doesn't have to be expensive and time consuming. Gifts can be purchased on your weekly (or daily) trip to the grocery store then personalized and decorated with things that you have around the house. You can stock up on these inexpensive supplies at your local craft store.

Here are some simple, low-cost steps to show someone you care:

Step 1: Visit the bakery department in your local grocery store for a variety of fresh and delicious options. From frosted cookies, to cinnamon rolls, cupcakes and doughnuts, you'll find a treat to please everyone on your list -- and there's no baking involved.

Step 2: Personalize each gift by selecting a baked good and using basic art or wrapping supplies (think ribbon spools and tissue paper leftover from Christmas) that you have around the house to dress up your gifts.

Step 3: Attach a personalized, handwritten note on a piece of construction paper or cardstock. Cut the paper to size, punch a hole to thread a ribbon through and tie it to your gift.

Other ideas for a quick and easy do-it-yourself ways to dress up your gift:

* Homemade gift bags: Cut hearts out of construction paper and glue onto a lunch bag.

* Decorative plates: Find inexpensive, seasonal or colored ceramic plates at your local discount store and wrap with cellophane and a bow.

* Sweet surprise: Grab a small gift box, place some tissue inside, add your selected baked good and tie with a colored bow. Make sure that the baked good is secure in the box. You don't want it to crumble.