This week’s edition of Waste Less Wednesdays is also a throwback! We’re reminding you of the least expensive valentine around (okay maybe a hug is cheaper) coming in at about .30, a banana valentine! We love this simple waste-free way to show your appreciation.

We are all about balance around these parts. Sarah’s balance goes something like this: wake up at 4:00am to catch a sunrise from the summit of a mountain then spend the next 24 hours sleeping. Me? I’m always trying to strike a balance between showing my guys I love them by making fussy treats and then leaving a few oh-so-simple surprises around the house that have just as much meaning. Today we’re sharing the latter. A simple surprise that will put a smile on anyone’s face.

You’ve probably seen this banana trick before, but we wanted to remind you of it again, especially if you woke up today realizing that you still don’t have anything for your Valentine. Don’t stress, just pick up a banana and follow these tips.

• Find a sharp point that you can use for writing (it could be a toothpick, skewer, sewing needle, knifepoint, etc.).
• Write a little note on the banana with a relatively light touch. You don’t have to pierce the skin, but if you do, that’s ok too.

• Let the banana sit for as little as one hour, and your message will be visible! The message seems to show up sooner the riper your banana is, so if you want to serve this at a particular time, make sure you write your note in advance. If you’re just going to leave it in the fruit bowl for your love to find, then you can write it whenever you want. I will often write a note before bed and let it on the counter for C to find in the morning.

This is also a great way to send a message of love in your kiddo’s lunch box! So send them off tomorrow with a little pre-valentine note or knock-knock joke.

What do you call two birds in love? Tweethearts!

Our days are always more fun when they are filled with little surprises, notes of love, laughs, and jokes, and we bet you feel the same. So, if you’re feeling stressed about finding the perfect gift or card for the 14th, shake that monkey off your back and find a banana!