Hey Everyone!

So, Valentines Day is almost here. I know I just wrote about the “Anti Valentines Day,” and how the whole holiday is total shenanigans, but it can actually be pretty spectacular if you know how to do it. I love the little things for holidays more than anything. The last thing I want to do is go out to a fancy dinner with an expensive fixed menu, and I definitely don’t want a super expensive gift. That’s just not my scene.

I think Valentines Day is more about thoughtful and simple gestures, and of course chocolates and flowers!

If you’re still stuck on what to do for Valentines Day, here are some last minute fun and thoughtful ideas:

1. Make heart shaped pancakes or eggs:

I really can’t think of anything more amazing than waking up to the smell of pancakes, and then to see they are heart shaped! Heart shaped breakfasts rock. You don’t even need one of those cookie cutters. This video below shows you exactly how to make them on your own! And, don’t worry about making them perfect because all hearts are perfect and no heart is the same. Just the thought and effort alone is beautiful! PS. Eggs work too!

2. Plan and cook dinner together, then watch a movie:

I know dinner and a movie seems cliche, but it doesn’t have to be. Planning and putting together a menu and cooking together is a great way to connect, especially if you’ve just started dating. You’re not just having a fun night together, but you’re also building communication skills and learning how to work together. How will you cook the appetizers and coordinate that around sautéing veggies all while boiling the pasta? Do you have to cook at the same time or separate? What burners will you use? Are you making dessert? When do you start cooking that? Would it be better to make the appetizers or cookies ahead of time? It’s all about communication and working together as a team.

Then, for the movie, don’t go with the typical cheesy chick flick. Watch something rad like Hellraiser or A Nightmare on Elm Street. Old bad horror are the best. Try 976 Evil, and if you really want a good laugh, A Nightmare on Elm Street 2 is hilarious.

3. Plan A Day-Date:

Day dates are pretty amazing, and they’re great because you can call it a day, or if you’re having an amazing time you can just keep hanging out. There are so many great things you can do together during the day, but one of my favorites is exploring little towns. I live in the Orlando area and we have a bunch of little surrounding towns that are anywhere from 20-60 minutes away. Planning a day out to Mount Dora, Winter Garden, Cocoa, St. Augustine (about 2 hours), or New Syrmna can be adorable. Most of these places have a historic downtown with little antique or mom and pop shops. There are usually local restaurants and live music too. It can be fun to take the day off with each other and plan a memorable day trip.

Another thing that could be fun is planning a picnic locally. Order some sushi takeout or vegan empanadas from the local cuban place, pack some wine, napkins, two cupcakes for desert, and you’re set!

Seriously, Valentines Day is nothing to get nervous or go overboard about. You just have to think simple, creative, and thoughtful. Get a cute card, plan a picnic, and watch a cheesy movie. Heart Shaped Pancakes gets my vote every time though.

What’s your idea of a simple and easy valentines day date? What are some of your best date and worst date stories. I’d love to hear in the comments below!