Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is coming up in just over a week. For many people, this is one of the most miserable times of the year. If you dread this holiday more than a root canal, allow me to give you some advice to make this day more tolerable if not enjoyable.

Having problems figuring out what to get your significant other?

If you're having trouble getting a gift for the special guy in your life, you're probably trying too hard. Most guys that I know of don't consider Valentine's Day to be any different from any other day except for the obligation they feel to get gifts for their girlfriend. Allow that fact to take the pressure off you some.

If you're having problems trying to figure out what the special girl in your life would like, your problem is probably along the same lines. Valentine's Day should be something special, but you don't have to do something epic or shell out the big bucks to make it special. The things that are special are all about the details. Find the little things that make the day all about her. If you're really having trouble, ask her. Yes, it may ruin some of the surprise, but it shows that you're being thoughtful. Besides, you can always take something that she's suggested and make it personalized.

Think about what your partner enjoys. Do they enjoy a particular food, type of music, hobby, sport or game? Indulge them a little. Take interest in what they enjoy. Learn a little something about it and you will learn a little about them in the process. Take them out on a spontaneous journey or offer to make a special supper for the two of you with them.

Don't forget to employ your talents. Your partner is attracted to you for a reason and part of that reason is because of what you're good at. If you're a writer, write them a poem. Like to bake? Bake something special. An artist? Draw or paint them something. The same applies to ever talent. You will create something personalized that you enjoy creating and that will be very special to them.

Dates?

For many people, dating seems like a thing of the past. That's unfortunate because every date is an opportunity. It's an opportunity to learn more about a person, go on an adventure with them, and make memories to last a lifetime.

Dating doesn't have to be something as traditional and boring as dinner and a movie though. There are plenty ways to spice up a date and make it seem like an adventure. Here are some of the ways I could think of off the top of my head:

1. Try some exotic food that neither of you has tried before
2. Play a game. Whether it be bowling or Parcheesi, make it something you both enjoy.
3. Build something. (LEGOs should not be underestimated as date material)
4. Go for a walk to someplace in town that you haven't been to before. Explore the local scenery and shops
5. Go for a swim.
6. Take a drive into a neighboring town that you don't normally go to.
7. Plant something.
8. Make a fort out of blankets and cushions.
9. Watch a movie that brings back childhood memories for the both of you.

Whatever you do, be creative and fun and don't worry if things don't go exactly as planned. If something happens, there's almost always a way in which a date can be salvaged. However, if you stress over it too much, problems are sure to arise and no one will have any fun.

What if your single?

Not a problem. Valentine's day doesn't have to be miserable if you don't have a significant other to spend time with. Instead, you can make Valentine's day a special day to have with friends, family, or even just yourself. Remember, true love doesn't happen between two people who are romantically involved. True love is the love between friends and the love you show yourself.

So please, have a good Valentine's Day. Enjoy yourself and go on an adventure.