Written by: Melissa Talbert
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. However, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that the infamous day dedicated to celebrating love and affection will look a lot different this year. Chances are you’ll be spending the day following curfew guidelines, masked up or socially distant.
Yet all hope is not lost. This is not a drill! There are still ways to honour love- whether with a loved one, partner or yourself. But here’s what it will take: being open minded; adjusting your perception of what celebrating love should look like. For starters, it doesn’t have to be this elaborate or extravagant thing. Think effective and simple.
Considering everything that started last year, perhaps it’s time to appreciate the small things? Small things like life, good health, good company? We witnessed why not to take the ones we love for granted but rather to give them their flowers (literally) while they’re still here.
Thankfully, we handpicked (with love) doable gestures that will not limit you to the repetitiveness of binge watching romantic series on Netflix. Here are seven (7) ideas that will up the excitement of a pandemic-safe Valentine’s Day.
Related: Dating During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Go for a long walk
Whether in your neighbourhood or at a national park, going for a stroll at the park is the perfect opportunity to have some alone time while engaging in deeper conversations. At Holywell, there are multiple trails to choose from, a cabin and a breathtaking view! Don’t forget that white sandy beaches are ideal for nature walks as well.
Have an at-home games night
Chess, Uno and Jenga are just a few tangible games you can play on Valentine’s day. If you want to opt for digital games like ‘{THE AND}’ that’s all right too. The game creates a space for real and honest conversations via their beautifully customized questions for partners, friends, family, ex-couples, first dates, and even strangers.
Related: Social Distancing and Intimacy
Take a day trip
Wake up early and join the race against time. Try to beat the morning’s sun to your destination in anticipation for a beautiful sunrise. I promise, it’s the simple things your partner will remember most.
Enjoy a cook off
Find a digital cooking channel like Munchies, pick an interesting recipe and get to cooking with your partner…or against them. Make it a friendly cooking competition or bake off. Either way, cooking something new and following an unfamiliar recipe can make for a fun experience with many laughable moments.
Related: Valentine’s Baking Recipes
Cook dinner together
A table for two please! On the menu is a home-cooked meal from the ingredients you could salvage from the refrigerator. Brainstorm how best to use your ingredients to make something special and execute together!
Get crafty
Get your paint brushes, a clean canvas, a painter’s apron, a bottle of wine and make art. No one’s judging, so hang them up as decor when you’re through. You can even incorporate games- paint out your answers in a game of charades.
Related: 6 Great Recycling Ideas for Home Décor
Pamper your partner
Massages. Pedicures. Manicures. Facials. Pamper your partner because one thing’s for sure- stress does not discriminate! They’ll appreciate it.
Related: Male Grooming
All the best in your quest to go above and beyond to show your love. Here’s to a splendid Valentine’s Day!