Create a date-night quest (for him!) with this fun, easy papercraft.

Need an idea for a creative Valentine date-night with your sweetie? I've got just the thing! 

This year, February 12th marks my husband's and my 25th (first-date) anniversary. I wanted to do something really special. So I've created a quest-date that will end up being a journey down memory lane with my sweetie. I'll tell you about it, then I'll show you how to make the adorable paper crafted (not sure what to call them, boxes?), so you can create a treasure hunt date-night of your own. 

So here's the scoop: I've made five cute little box-things. Inside each, I've placed a clue (I know they're sort of cheesy) and some M & Ms. Now I'm all ready for the big day. Come February 12th, the-love-of-my-life will find my clues as follows: (Don't worry. He won't find out about my plans, because he doesn't read my blog unless I ask him to! So, no telling, okay?)

#1: On his bathroom counter in the morning:

 #2: On his pillow when he gets home from work:

Here's the inside story: Our first date was to a restaurant called Wild Plum, famous at the time for their pies, chili and cornbread. That night, we shared a piece of blackberry pie (my honey's favorite). (After that, I couldn't wait to get to a mirror to make sure I didn't have any stray berry parts in my teeth!) Well, a few years ago, the Wild Plum was torn down. In its place there is now a new Red Lobster--which I've never been to, so our date there will be a new experience :-) Anyway...  

#3: Brought to our table by the server at Red Lobster (with our dessert):

#4: In the glove-box when we're parked.

(I can't tell you what this clue says! And no, it's not what you think).

#5: Back home, in the fridge, next to a blackberry pie:

(Um, mum's the word here, too. You get the point, anyhow.)

So, that's the date-night quest I've designed for my hubs. Spark any ideas for you? Wanna give these little box-things a try? (You do? Yay!)

Here's what you'll need:

• Printed or solid cardstock
• String and / or colored baker's twine
• A medium sized label punch (or store bought pre-cut labels)
• A heart punch to decorate labels (optional)
• Scissors
• Glue stick (extra strength works best)
• Small candies (optional) 

Step 1: Start with color coordinated paper (or you won't have nearly as much fun!)

Step 2: Cut a piece of cardstock so it measures 3-5/8 X 6 inches. Spread glue on the short ends (face-up at one end, then flip and do the reverse side at the other end). Roll so the ends overlap about 1/4 inch. Press the seam until it holds. 

Step 3: Spread glue inside one end of the tube you just created. 

Step 4: Center the seam and press the glued end closed. Press firmly until it holds.

Step 5: Tie baker's twine, or string, around the glued end, twice around. Attach a coordinated label, and tie a bow. I used a punch to make my labels.

Step 6: Slip a piece of paper inside with your clue written on it. Place some candies in too if you like. Glue the second end closed, in the opposite direction from the decorated end.

Step 7: Decide where you will hide your clues!  

WHAT DO YOU SAY? Is your mind busy planning out your quest? Have ideas you'd like to share? Post a comment below! I'd love to hear from you.

Joy--Fearless Farm Girl,

"Farm girl: it's a verb, because it's what you do."