A romantic's secret weapons: Surprise and creativity
I have a small secret … I'm a conflicted romantic.
Careers, families and busy schedules have pushed romance onto the "back burner" for many individuals and couples, and it's for that reason I have a newfound appreciation for Valentine's Day.
Like many, I don't enjoy seeing Valentines' gifts filling the shelves as soon as Christmas items go on sale. Commercial pushiness has sucked the "romance" out of a day meant for affectionate gestures.
And yet, as a romantic I can't help but get caught up in red and pink hearts, fuzzy feelings and the need to do something out of the ordinary for loved ones.
Curiously, I asked my husband about his most romantic gesture. His response was "the look" followed by, "Isn't that a loaded question?" To which a friend chuckled, "Aren't they all loaded questions?" Needless to say I hit a dead end.
So, I decided to compile a few "less commercial" ideas to inspire sweethearts and singles, to step away from the traditional routine of flowers, dinner and gift.
Gestures don't have to be spendy or elaborate, just slightly out of the ordinary and with a personal touch. Yes, that means a small amount of planning and thought are necessary, but it's worth it in the end.
A romantic's secret weapons are surprise and creativity. When used they can make anyone a legend among their sweetheart's acquaintances.
So, flex those romantic muscles and this Valentine's Day. Be your own cupid.
Sticky notes. At some point when your loved one is not around leave affectionate sticky notes in places you know they will visit throughout the day. For example leave notes on their toothbrush, shower handle, milk jug, TV remote, car key, in the car, sack lunch … you get my idea. The more creative you get, the bigger the smile.
Scavenger hunt. This is a creative way to make traditional gifts more exciting. Send roses with a note that gives a clue to the next location and continue the adventure for as long or short as you like. Send your loved one to the place where you first met, a favorite coffee shop and possibly end up at a favorite restaurant for dinner. Be as creative as you like, and feel free to make your partner solve puzzles and codes for their next clue. This takes some time, but the end result in gossip worthy.
A roll of fate. This is for the more adventurous souls and requires a car. You might want to grab a hot beverage, and then let fate take you away. Roll a die and each number corresponds with a driving command. 1= turn right, 2= turn left, 3= go straight, 4= U-turn, 5= reverse and 6= stop. Who knows, you may never get out of the driveway or end up getting lost.
Love notes. Instead of buying one card, buy several. On the card's envelopes label a time for your sweetheart to open each card. The cards can be sappy, funny or contain gift certificates. Anticipation for each card will make some crazy.
Ice skating. With the new rink in Moses Lake, bundle up and share a few laughs as you try to master the art of standing on a sheet of ice with a thin blade of steel strapped to your feet. Sounds ridiculous, but laughter and gravity can bring couples together.
Stroll with beverage. Cold, yes, but that is where hot liquid and mittens come into play. Take a walk through a local park and share a few moments catching up after a busy day. Be brave and make a snow angel, start a snowball fight, or on a cheesy note, stamp out a heart with initials in the snow.
Random text of affection. Why not? It's the age of the cellphone. Let someone know you're thinking about them. Several times a day!
Ice-cream comedian. Purchase or borrow a CD of a comedian you both appreciate. Swing by an ice cream parlor for some sweets and then take a drive while listening to the CD. Laughter helps everyone feel younger and more carefree.
Make dinner. Find a recipe that neither one of you has created, and make it together. Take the time to enjoy each other's company in the kitchen, and put the dishes off until the next day. Be prepared to purchase pizza (which they make in a heart shape this time of year) if the meal doesn't work.
When I was single, I used to despise Valentine's Day, but the above ideas can work for a group of friends or try some of the ideas below. Take this time to celebrate your friendships.
Singles night. Meet up with all your single friends for dinner and a movie. This opportunity gives you the chance to be out having fun with others. During dinner play a guessing game on how long the couples in the restaurant have been together. Having fun just might make some of the couples envious.
Girls' night. Take this time to have a girls' night with pedicures and good food. If you know who's attending draw names and do a white elephant gift exchange, or purchase flowers. Girl time is always a must.
Boys' night. Bring out the poker table, order pizza and put on your best game face. Watch "Fatal Attraction" as a reminder that single life isn't always horrible.
Whether single or devoted make this Valentine's Day one to remember. Someday when the question "What's the most romantic thing you've ever done?" is asked, have a memory to recount.
Best wishes to all Columbia Basin cupids.
Jonda Spurbeck is the design chief at the Columbia Basin Herald and invites you to post your romantic suggestions in the comments below. (Please keep it clean.)