Can it really be February already? It only seems like a few months ago that there were red hearts as far as the eye could see and restaurants were gearing up for one of the biggest nights of the year.
Just as Thanksgiving shakes hands with Halloween, and Halloween shakes hands with Christmas, so Santa tags Cupid as he leaves the ring. I’d swear I began to see Valentine paraphernalia creeping into the stores at the beginning of January, and of course now there are symbols of love as far as the eye can see.
Valentine’s Day goes back a loooong way, and if you can find the elegant and intricate handmade cards that were sent over a century ago you may find they are worth a bit of money. There was an art to it all back then, but not so much now with e-cards being available at the touch of a button.
So as February 14th approaches, what will be your plan? How will you celebrate with your honey or are you presently single? Do you even believe in Valentine’s Day? It can be magical or a minefield depending on your situation, but if you do your research you can make it through unscathed.
Now luckily you just happen to be on a stunning Caribbean island with sunsets and sunrises that are simply breathtaking. There are warm clear waters and soft white sand... it’s as though Mother Nature is your own personal event planner.
If you’re the simple kind of couple that prefers just the pleasure of each other’s company without any fuss, maybe you’d like to sit on the beach and watch the sun go down as the stars come out.
It really doesn’t get much more romantic than that (so I’ve been told.)
Of course some couples are keen on having something to eat as they toast their good fortune of having found each other. Never fear! There are restaurants aplenty that look out over the water, serving you excellent cuisine as you drink in the beverages and the view.
And should you wish to proffer some jewellery as a sign of your affection (or intentions) don’t forget that there are a wealth of stores in town and on the Seven Mile strip that are bound to have just the bauble to ensure your beloved squeals with joy.
Perhaps flowers are more her fancy? From the never-out-of-style red roses to exotic Birds of Paradise arrangements, you’ll find a wide selection of fauna to purchase from local florists. Just make sure you order well in advance if you want them to be delivered on the day.
And by the way, should you decide to be impulsive and devil-may-care by grabbing up a handful of wild flowers, first make sure they’re not from someone’s garden; and second, check to see that you don’t end up with a smattering of Maiden Plum or Cow Itch in the bunch. Nothing says “I love you” like red welts on the arm and a trip to the hospital.
Now there are some couples that really aren’t into Valentine’s Day, and that’s fine; just make sure that you BOTH feel that way, otherwise one of you is going to have a lot of making up to do later on.
And now to the singles... You can either wallow or wow on February 14th – it’s up to you. I would suggest going with the latter. Is there someone in whom you are interested? Why not send them a cute note and/or a flower?
You never know what could happen and worst case scenario, you’ve given someone a boost for the day. In the meantime, get a group of single friends together, dress to the nines and paint the town red. Make your own reservations for dinner (in advance - remember it’s a big night!) and drinks, don your finest clothes and have a fabulous evening.
Just because you’re single doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the celebration of love on Valentine’s Day - after all, you love your friends doncha?
There can be so much pressure on this day for lovers. Those who are single can be made to feel left out, and those in a relationship are hoping that their gesture will fit the bill so their sweetie won’t give them the silent treatment.
There are also many who pish such a holiday as just another way for companies to make money. It’s difficult not to be swept up in romance, however, no matter how cynical you are. And who can resist a heart filled with chocolates? Love and calories - they go together like martinis and hors d’oeuvres.
Sure, you should tell the person you love that you appreciate them every day. But hey - if you burned the table, came home way too late, or left your underwear on the floor one too many times, a big gesture could keep the peace for a long time afterwards; and in the end isn’t that what Valentine’s Day is all about?