Before the festivities started, we had to make boxes or large envelopes for our desks so other students in the class can drop cards and treats into. We used to decorate them to fit the theme with some creative liberties. Mine was hearts and Pokemon or something close to it. It usually was an manila envelope that was decorated in art class or in the classroom during free time if it wasn't already assigned. Afterwards we'd tape them to the side or front of our desks with our names along the top.

After that came the fun part of getting cards for the class. This would give us another way to be personally creative as there were all kinds of choices in the stores. From simple messages and shapes to themed cards and horrible word play jokes. There is also the candies with messages on them that you can sign. They were either boxed candy or cherry lollipops attached to a card. Then the not so fun part comes, filling them out. We were given a list of the kids in the classroom and had to write down each of their names. How did I do this? With the help of TV, usually Nickelodeon or Cartoon Network. If nothing on there, I popped a VHS on repeat or the radio. After a few rewinds and a sore wrist and hand later, it would be complete and be in my bag for the exchange. 

As the day of the exchange came, the school would have the theme be everywhere. Red and pink everywhere, cupids all over the halls, themed cookies in the cafeteria, and the classrooms have been decorated. After lunch, right before the day was through, came the exchange. We would each get up and put cards and treats in the envelopes and hangout afterwards and talk. Most classes turned it into a party with snacks and punch, some had a movie on. Some have looked in their envelopes already. 

Looking back, it was a fun thing for kids to do. But as I got older the novelty wore off and either turned sour, was turned to a simple affair, or ignored all together. I hope you all have a great Valentine's Day, however you celebrate it and also live life and live nostalgic.