Ahhh, the season of love is quickly approaching! This past year has been nothing short of stressful. It is time to brainstorm and commit to your 2021 Valentine's Day plans and feel the love! In the past there were many options as to how you could celebrate your love for each other - A candlelight dinner, couple's massages, eating chocolates and cocktails at a fancy lounge. But this year things are definitely different. Some of you might be feeling anxious about how you can come up with the perfect Valentine's Day. You may be limited as to where you can go and finding exciting things to do with your loved one after spending a year tied together in your home can be difficult. But, there are many fun date night options for staying in this Valentine's Day.
Sarah and Justin have been married for 15 years but this past year has been difficult. The pandemic has caused Justin to work fewer hours which put a financial strain on the family. Sarah's father recently died of COVID-19 and she is suffering great sadness. Their children are virtual learning which has caused much stress on Sarah to be their "teacher." Justin is aware that Valentine's Day is quickly approaching and he does not have a solid plan. Justin finds himself worrying and feeling anxious about what he is going to do to make it a special day for Sarah. Justin knows that it has been a trying year on their marriage and he wants to show Sarah that he appreciates her. The more thought he puts into it, the better!
Do you find yourself worrying about Valentine's Day like Justin? Sometimes it can be hard to get creative on what you can do when you are so limited. We're here to help you plan out the perfect at-home Valentine's Day this year!
1.) Recreate your first date-at-home: As you know, this year has likely been stressful on your relationship. What better way to feel love by recreating your first date? This could make sparks fly. Get creative! If you went to a romantic restaurant, print the menu and recreate one of the dishes. Remember to tell your loved one what you loved most about that day.
2.) Take a virtual class: This could be a cooking class, yoga class, or a mixology class. Let an expert help you make the perfect drink or cocktail on your special evening at home. This will help you both to bond over something fun!
3.) Create conversation starters: Sure, you and your partner have conversations with each other about the kids, the chores, work etc. But do you know everything about your partner and what other things do you want to know about them? Dig deep and create a list of conversation topics you guys want to talk about during your evening. Get some help from Google by searching conversation starters!
4.) Make breakfast in bed: How often do you get breakfast in bed? Put a tray of breakfast foods together for your partner and surprise them when they wake up in the morning. There is no better way to start the day than with breakfast. Don't forget to include heart-shaped foods!
5.) Go on a road trip: Sometimes getting out of the environment which you live in does wonders! Fill up on some gas and take your spouse on a unique adventure. Remember to plan out what you want to see that day. Take a drive in the mountains or head to an interesting town you've never been. to. Create a playlist for your road trip.
6.) Go to the movie theatre-at home: Grab the popcorn, your favorite candy, and some soda at your local grocery store. Download a romantic movie or even rent one from the red box that you both would like to see. Make your movie theatre at home comfy and cozy with blankets and pillows!
7.) Have a picnic: Set out a blanket and bring your food basket to the living room! Make sandwiches, pack some snacks, and bring a bottle of champagne to your picnic. Don't forget to bring a speaker to listen to some music.
If you find yourself reflecting on how trying this year has been on your relationship we are always here to help.
Contact
Risa Simpson-Davis, LCSW
(732)742-0329