N E W NORMAL
Not Run-of-the-mill Valentines W
hen it comes to modifying our special days and holidays, we should all be pandemic pros by now. Still, this year may be bringing more new norms in our planning since there never seems to be a consensus about health precautions, and so many restaurants and venues are short on employees. If you are looking for some alternative options to stoke the fires of romance, or you're just not that into Valentine's traditions, we found some great alternatives to the typical February 14th. Create your own room service menu. Not so much a date, but a great way to start or spend the day. Create and print out a little room service menu that has all your loved one's favorite breakfasts, snacks, or indulgent foods on it. It need not be fancy—how about a toast menu with a selection of spreads? Serve on a tray and bring it in before he or she gets out of bed. Maybe take turns in the morning and the evening so both can enjoy the joy of being spoiled. All-day Throwback. Make a playlist of all the songs that were popular in the year you met. Eat meals you had back in the day. Bring the blankets, popcorn, candy, and drinks. The only rule is, the movie you choose to watch or rent has to be from the year you met. Friends-entines. Organize a big group meal with friends and singles. It might prove tricky with restaurants that cater to covers for two, but why save those friendly gatherings for Thanksgiving only? It's a day of love after all, and who's to say it has to be exclusive to couples?
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J A N UA R Y 2 022 M Y JA R R ELL M O NT HLY
Go late, go cheap. Set a budget and see what you and your partner can find on the reduced racks on February 15th. This is a great idea for teenage couples who are on a budget and just want to play around with the idea of Valentines. You can compete for the best deal cheapest gift. The best part? You can spend the day eating reduced chocolate. BLANKET FORT! Upgrade the sofa-cushion-structure of your childhood by building a truly grownup fort: think fat, squishy cushions, twinkly fairy lights, artfully-draped sheets and cozy knitted throws. Setting it up together is an activity in itself,
