Late Valentine's in the City

As I mentioned in my last post, Keith and I both had the day off yesterday and used that opportunity to celebrate Valentine's day, since I had school on Thursday evening. We let ourselves have a very low-key day. We slept in then made ourselves a massive breakfast of banana pancakes, scrambled eggs, and bacon. We lounged around for awhile watching Parks and Rec before finally getting ready and leaving the apartment.

Central park holds a soft spot in our hearts. It was one of the first places that we went two years ago when we visited NYC together for spring break. I especially appreciate it now because there's trees and open space, which I so desperately yearn for. We spent a few hours walking around the park, people watching and taking in the sun and pretending that we weren't in a huge city. Once we were chilled to our bones and our feet were sore, we stopped in a McDonald's on our way home to split some fries and a shamrock shake.

When we got home, we caught up with Parks and Rec and made a taco salad for dinner. Low-key and easy, our day, but that's totally us and the best way to spend time together.

Heart Pancakes

It's Valentine's day! The day that people seem to either vehemently despise or look forward to for months. I guess I fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. I really dislike the way in which our culture has normalized Valentines Day. I dislike the expectation of a dozen roses, a fancy dinner, and an expensive gift just to prove your affection for someone. I feel like the spirit of Valentine's is to remind those around you of how much you care, in a way that feels authentic to you and your relationship.

I think that Valentine's day is a day to celebrate all the love in your live, romantic or otherwise. That's why I made Valentine's for my friends a few days ago. Like Father's Day or Mother's Day, Valentine's should be a day for reflecting on important relationships in your life.

Keith and I will celebrate this weekend by spending a day together, I'll be at school late tonight. This is the first Valentine's day of our relationship that we've been in the same place! So, we'll celebrate by being together. Although, I couldn't resist making heart-shaped pancakes for breakfast or leaving a heart-shaped Valentine for him to find after work tonight. That's authentically us.

DIY Valentines: Folded-heart Envelopes

I feel like Valentine's Day has really sneaked up on me this year. I usually like to do something small to share the love with my friends and family. To me, that's what Valentine's Day is really about, instead of over the top candies and gifts and expensive dinners. If you're looking for a last-minute sign of appreciation to give, look no further. I made these simple Valentine's Day cards with few ingredients, but lots of love. I found the folded heart envelopes floating around Pinterest (but without the original source) & then customized it!

Materials:
a few sheets of paper
sheets of cardstock, 1 per Valentine
internal paper
adhesive
& whatever else you may want to add: stickers, stamps, confetti, glitter, etc.