5 years ago, on Valentine’s Day, Ryan and I had our first date at a restaurant on Whyte ave. It wasn’t particularly romantic since we were both just getting to know each other but it started what would be an anniversary/Valentine’s Day tradition for years. We have never given gifts on this day and I absolutely love that. Not that there is anything wrong with showering your loved one with gifts and flowers and chocolates! To each their own! But we found a better way to celebrate this day together.
Every year, we pick our top restaurant choice in the city, even if it’s a big splurge. Usually, we try to pick somewhere we have never been or have been dying to go to. Its become such a fun night for us, we start narrowing down our choices months and months in advance like giddy school kids. The night is special because we connect, and enjoy a delicious meal in a new place. It’s the experience. Now I know, going for dinner isn’t anything new in the relationship department. But what matters to us is time together doing something we enjoy.
So for this Valentine’s day, try establishing a tradition and DO something you enjoy together. Same goes if you are single. Get together with friends, try something new or just spend an evening pampering YOU. Whether you cook a fancy meal at home, have breakfast in bed or watch a romantic movie, the day should be all about valuing time spent together rather than valuing things.
Recently I came along this article for 50 Fun Winter Date Night Ideas in Edmonton. Some events have already come and gone, but it’s a really fun list (and not just because the word fun is in the title)!! Even if you aren’t yeg based, there are some great Valentine’s Day ideas here that can inspire you in your own city. Cooking classes? Improv shows? Museum gatherings? So awesome!
I hope you all enjoy your special day!
xo
I love this! I totally agree with you – for the last two years James and I have nixed gifts and opted to spend time together. This year we’re taking an extra day over the long weekend to go to the art gallery, grab a meal or two out at some of our favorite restaurants but we’ll be cooking a meal together Valentine’s evening and just enjoying some time together! 🙂 xo,D
you guys are the cutest!!
Aww Janna…you’re the sweetest 🙂 Love you! xoxo
(loved seeing that plate – I’ve eaten many sandwiches, etc. from those plates. They were great-grandma’s – used both in her Camrose home & then her apartment. I always loved Nana’s neat assortment of china.)
I loved her assortment too. These particular plates are so beautiful…it’s too bad there were only two bowls!