Valentine’s Day is almost here and some people are excited to show family or friends how much they are loved. But for others, it’s a reminder they don’t have a spouse or significant other. Even if you don’t have a sweetheart to celebrate it with, find someone — family or a friend — to celebrate this day. Most people will be excited to join you but just need an invitation. So you take that first step and reach out. Someone else may be lonely and need a friend!
Or even if you’re all by yourself you should celebrate. Why? Because YOU are a special person– you matter! Self-care is important for each one of us – taking time to care for ourselves improves our health – physically, mentally, and emotionally – so find something you enjoy that will make you feel special and loved. Make a plan, however small, to celebrate family or friends or yourself this Valentine’s Day. So here are some ideas on how to celebrate plus dessert recipes.
Things you can do by yourself or with others that won’t break the bank:
Visit a bookstore – look around and read a bit; if you find a book you like, check to see if the library has it for free.
Go out for breakfast instead of lunch or dinner – sometimes cheaper and less busy.
Get up early to watch a sunrise or be sure to catch the sunset in the evening.
Go to a sporting event – many local high schools have games all year and are cheaper than college or professional events.
Go see a local musical or play – check out high schools – cheaper than professional theaters and you’re supporting your local teens.
Go to a parade (if you live in Mardi Gras country like I do).
Get a pedicure or manicure (by yourself or with a friend).
Get a massage.
Go see a movie. (If by yourself, you get to pick what you want to see.)
Make a special dinner at home (see dessert recipes below).
Decorate your table with a special tablecloth and napkins (even if it’s just you).
Buy a bottle of nail polish to do your own pedi or mani at home.
Make a special dessert (see ideas and recipes below for decadent ideas – including some no sugar or low sugar ideas).
Go to the park and stroll or bike. Or just sit on a bench and relax or read.
Hike or bike on a nature trail (Tammany Trace in Louisiana is great).
Go camping overnight at a park. Or camp in the backyard.
Drive to the lake or pond and spend the day in nature.
Have a picnic at a park or lake.
Visit a museum you’ve always been wanting to visit – art, history, or public gardens.
Call a friend and set up a lunch or coffee get together.
Grab coffee or tea and stroll around the downtown area.
Invite a few friends over to have lunch or dinner. Everyone bring a dish.
Have a painting party at home – buy cheap canvases and look on Pinterest for ideas. Give them to friends who are sick or lonely.
Get takeout and eat by candlelight (or on the floor picnic-style).
How about board games or cards?
Go play miniature golf, bowling, or skating.
Taste test your 3 – 4 favorite foods. Do a blind test of food you pick up from the store or prepare at home. You could call it “Name that food” or “Guess what’s in here?”
Go canoeing or kayaking.
Play tourist in your city.
Watch old family movies.
Volunteer somewhere and focus on helping others (Some churches provide a night out for parents).
Offer to babysit for friends who can’t afford a sitter but would love to get away for a few hours.
Desserts to make it more special:
Chocolate Mug Cake – https://nurturingyourlife.com/desserts/#chocolate-mug-cake
Valentine’s Day Parfait – https://nurturingyourlife.com/desserts/#valentine-day-parfait
Nut Butter Fudge Hearts – https://nurturingyourlife.com/desserts/#nut-butter-fudge-hearts
So celebrate this Valentine’s Day no matter your life circumstances. Find someone else to focus on and cheer up – and you’ll be cheered up as well! This day is just to show we care. And don’t forget to show yourself some TLC and self-care. Here’s an article on other suggestions for self-care. Happy Valentine’s Day!
