Valentine’s Day

(Sing along to the tune of ‘My Favourite Things’ )

 “Cupids and roses and boxes of chocolates, love notes and kisses and champagne-filled goblets…”Photo: www.huffingtonpost.com

Yes, it’s that time again; you know the one, between Christmas and Easter? A day for lovers and love; Valentine’s Day of course!

Now before you think I’m being all ‘bah-humbug’ (or whatever the Valentine’s day equivalent is), I actually DO celebrate 14 February and like to make it a special day for my loved ones. While many people are disenfranchised with the commercialism of the day – and let’s face it, it’s hard not to feel slight nausea at the superfluous ‘redness’ in the shopping centres. But, if you can ignore all that stuff, then Valentine’s Day can be a wonderfully special day.

It can be expensive or cost you nothing

Photo: www.messina.com.au

So buying a dozen roses will be the equivalent to a down payment on a house! But, think outside the square. A potted plant in a beautiful vase will last longer and become a part of your home. Orchids and mini bonsai trees are lovely and ornamental. Red roses are clichéd anyway. If it’s impossible to buy a gift for that special person, be creative and think what a lovely gesture it would be to take the kids out for day, or book a plane ticket so your wife can visit her best friend or how about take a cooking class? Whatever the gesture, a little thought can go a very long way, just don’t leave it till the last minute! Words are powerful and writing down your feelings in a card or composing a love note has become a dying trend.

Never dine alone

Photo: www.messina.com.au

For the past few years I’ve held a Valentine’s Day dinner for my friends whose partners are away on business. And, these dinners have been a smashing success! Secretly nobody likes being alone on Valentine’s Day and it makes it extra lonely when you know your loved one is far away. Each time I’ve hosted, the nights have been great fun and it’s also a fabulous excuse to get together with friends you haven’t had the chance to catch up with. The secret is to keep the food theme indulgent and decadent (think fantastic desserts from Messina and lots of bubbles). This year, I’ll be hosting a dinner for friends and couples who are Valentine’s Day humbugs. I’m sure by the end of the night; I’ll have a roomful of converts!

Embrace the day, it’s only once a year – a besides, love DOES make the world go round!

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