A Valentine's Day gift is a wonderful way to show someone you care about them. The traditional flowers or candy are a fleeting pleasure but the words you say to your loved one are a gift that can last a lifetime. One of my fondest memories is of my teenage son telling me, as I was working late one evening, that he was proud of me for the good work I was doing. Those words will stay with me forever.

When a person is trying to make changes in eating and exercise habits in order to be healthier, there are words that help and words that hurt. Questions such as “Should you be eating that?” or “What makes you think you'll lose weight this time?”make a person want to rebel and eat more or just give up.

How do you tell someone you care about that you appreciate what they are doing to be a healthier person? What can you say to help them in their efforts? What words make someone want to keep working to make changes for the better? When asked these questions, my co-workers at Cornell Cooperative Extension came up with the following sentiments:

• Thank you for taking care of yourself because I want you with me for a long time.

• It's great that we can do more things together now that you have more energy.

• I love the variety of foods we're eating now to get out of the rut we were in.

• When we eat this way, I feel better, too.

• I look forward to our walks together.

• I'm so happy that you are feeling better because of the choices you are making.

• I know it's hard to change habits but I'm proud of you that you are trying so hard.

• I love it when you take time to cook a good meal.

• I'll wash the dishes while you do your exercise.

• It's good to see you putting a water bottle in your lunch so you don't have to buy soda at work.

• You don't need to buy chips for me because I know they are hard for you to resist when they are in the house.

• I love trying new foods with you.

• Let's share an order because this is too much food for one person.

• I've noticed that you can use the stairs now without getting out of breath.

You may want to give a traditional gift to your loved one on Valentine's Day but for all the other days of the year, remember to give the gift of positive words. That is truly the gift that keeps on giving.

Reminder for a healthier new year: Keep fruit within easy reach for snacking.

Christine Gutelius, MA,RD,CDN, is a nutrition resource educator with the Eat Smart NY program at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

1/2 pint strawberries (about 10-15 strawberries)

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil

Wash strawberries, leaving stems on.

Dry thoroughly on paper towels. Line cookie sheet with waxed paper or parchment paper.

Combine chocolate chips and oil in microwave-safe bowl and microwave until chips are melted (about 30-60 seconds).

Remove from microwave and stir.

Dip lower half of each strawberry into melted chocolate.

Place on cookie sheet and refrigerate, uncovered, about 30 minutes or until chocolate is firm.