3 nerdy tips to Valentine's Day

I wrote this post because often I find that we silly humans can get carried away with expectations around what's really important on "holidays".  Whether you're single or coupled, the most important thing to remember is the value of the relationship with those most important in our lives.  It's not about getting a gift of a fancy $800 shoes from your husband or a $500 Valentine's Day dinner at an expensive restaurant or romantic diamond jewelry.  It's not.  (Though, if that's what makes it real for you - go have fun and enjoy for sure.)  For many others, let's remember to keep it real.  It's all about the simple thoughtful gesture to the ones we love in our lives.  

1. Embrace your inner cheese.

Seriously.  Keep it simple.  Simple.  Get or make a sweet card for the one (or ones) you love.  Who says Valentine's Day has to just be about significant others, and spouses? Send some love to your girlfriends, your guyfriends, your favorite siblings and teachers, bartender, concierge, coworker and/or mailman.  :)  (Ideally, buy/make/prepare the card in advance.)  --->  And a simple <3 text is a great gesture, too.  That's super easy to do, so go share the "<3" and text away to all those you love.

2. It's the thought (and hug) that counts.

There's really NO need to break the bank for Valentine's.  Unless you REALLY want to go all out, THEN GO ALL OUT.  Sweet crystal stud earrings, small delicate bracelet/necklace --- all nice.  Just as nice as half a dozen beautiful delicious macaroons or a small box of 4 decadent chocolates.  Or go eat at your favorite dessert place - get that big slice of white chocolate strawberry cake.  Or hell, grab a bottle of wine, cuddle up with your fluffy dog, your babe (or BFF) and watch a movie.  It's the planned thought and the time that counts, NOT THE DOLLARS.  A really big big big warm snuggly hug is super amazing, too.  :)

3. Have your plan ready.

About 1-3 days before, ideally, have your plan ready for Valentine's Day.  Don't leave it to the day of or last minute because that's unnecessarily making it stressful to both you and the recipient(s).  Whether it's for your girlfriend or wife or a bunch of BFF's, know what you're going to do.  Send her/him/them all a loving text message or voicemail at the start of the day to tell them you're thinking about them.  Have the card ready before Valentine's Day.  Know whether you're going to cuddle someone with a glass of wine and watch an old movie, go out to get some delicious dessert, or go all out with dinner out on the town + roses + chocolates + and then some.  (Stressing should not be part of the plan.)

​Alrighty.  Don't stress.  Valentine's Day is simple - just follow the above 3 steps.

​--Arry