Got Valentine’s Day plans?

It’s almost here — Valentine’s Day! I know people are either very passionate about hating or loving it, or else they just don’t care about the day at all. I love Valentine’s Day, and single or not, I’m convinced that it is possible to enjoy the day. Here are some of my ideas for spending the day, whether alone, with family, friends, or a significant other.

• Movies, blankets, and chocolate! You can’t limit yourself on Valentine’s Day! No treat is off limit. To me, this means eating every chocolate in sight. And since the holiday falls on the weekend, it’s the perfect chance to take the day completely off and relax on your bed/couch to watch movies. Cuddle up with your pet, family, friends, Ben & Jerry —whoever! Just relax and enjoy yourself.
• Try a new restaurant. Doing the same thing all the time gets old. The same thing goes for restaurants and casual places to eat. I know you love Chipotle, and if you really want to spend the day together, then by all means, who am I to stop you? But if you’re looking for something new, it’s the perfect reason to do so. Try out that restaurant down the street. Go see what the hype is about the coffee place on the other side of campus. Make it a date (alone, with your partner, or family).
• Cook or bake. Maybe you don’t want to go out on Valentine’s Day weekend. I don’t blame you. Instead, run to the store during the week and pick up ingredients for a favorite recipe or something new. This will be fun and rewarding no matter whether or not you are alone.
• Go somewhere different. As I am always saying, there is so much to do in the city. Check it out for the holiday. I know Kevin and I are going to the Art Institute. We’ve never gone together before, so it’ll be a great thing to do to celebrate. While the same old can be nice, it is so exciting to check out places and things you haven’t before.
• Pamper day. My favorite! Spend a day alone or with those you love doing your nails, relaxing, getting a massage, or anything that helps you unwind. Having the day to recharge will not only make you appreciate the holiday – it’ll get you geared up to face the rest of the wonderfully miserable winter. Take time for you.
• People watch. You know this is fun on a regular day. Now imagine doing this on a day when so SO many people head out in public. Find a nice public space, get a coffee or grab a friend (or both!) and check out what the people around you are doing. It may sound creepy, but people watching can be so fascinating. Even more fun – try to guess who they are, what they’re doing, etc.
• Give out valentines. I haven’t stopped doing this since kindergarden. This is so much fun, and it’s a great way to show people that you care about them. I love giving out valentine’s. Nowadays, I give them to my staff. I’m sure you can think of some people to pass them out to.

So no matter what your plans are or who you plan to spend the day with, try to relax. Valentine’s Day may be overhyped, but I think it’s a great day to stop and show yourself and your family and friends some love. Spend quality time together doing something fun. Enjoy your day!

Holly Brenza is a senior majoring in English and minoring in communications and management. In her spare time, Holly enjoys playing with her puppy, Bear, and watching the Blackhawks and White Sox, reading and trying out new recipes. After graduation, she hopes to work in public relations.