A single’s guide to Valentine’s day

Cameryn Smith

On Valentine’s Day, many people yearn to have a significant other, often looking down on themselves when not meeting that goal. However, being single on Valentine’s Day comes with some bonuses, more free time and less stress. The highly anticipated holiday of love comes around every year, and each time, I have remained single. Though depressing, Valentine’s Day presents itself with many opportunities for singles. I am here as a guide to help you find the JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out) in this holiday with a series of activities designed to provide a fulfilling day, sure to leave you satisfied as a single person.

 

Movies:

The first activity worth doing on Valentine’s Day is having a movie marathon. Whether you are by yourself or with your best friends, cuddling up to watch romantic comedies with your favorite snacks is sure to make you feel better … or worse. As jealous as it may make you feel, these movies are sure to keep you entertained. Here is a list of some watch-worthy romantic comedies this season to get you started on your entertainment for the holiday:

The perfect movie to watch on Valentine’s Day is How To Lose A Guy In 10 days, featuring Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey. (Image courtesy of IMDb)
  • “How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days”
  • “10 Things I Hate About You”
  • “The Kissing Booth”
  • “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before”
  • “Love Actually”
  • “Notting Hill”
  • “13 Going on 30”

 

Baking:

Baking is a fun activity all year-round. Especially on Valentine’s Day, the shelves are stocked with red and pink heart-shaped desserts waiting to be bought. Go treat yourself this February and stock up on all of your favorites! Here is a list of the best (and easiest) things to bake by yourself.

Chocolate-covered strawberries – This two-ingredient dessert is the easiest, and arguably most delicious thing to make. Start by melting chocolate chips and then finish by dipping fresh strawberries in the melted mixture. Let the berries sit until the chocolate has hardened and enjoy!

Valentine’s funfetti cake – A super easy recipe in a box! Customized Valentine’s Day mix is sold at nearby stores, like Target, and comes with simple instructions on the back of the box. Be sure to remember pink frosting to accompany the cake, and have a great (and yummy) time.

Heart Pizza – Enough of the sweet desserts. If you are looking for something savory, this is the perfect recipe for you. Take pizza dough and shape it into a heart, then add your favorite toppings and bake. This pizza is best enjoyed alone, although someone to share this pizza with would be nice too ….

Illustration by Julia Frankus

Guy/Galentine’s

“Galentine’s” has become a popular term, used to describe taking this day to celebrate your friendships with your gals or guys! Though you can do any item on this list with your friends, these two extra ones are sure to wow the crowd. 

Picnic – nothing is cuter than enjoying a nice, well-planned picnic with your closest friends. Celebrating someone you love does not always have to mean a significant other, and enjoying a yummy lunch with dessert is a guaranteed good time. Ranging from a beach to Piper Park, Marin has endless options for picnic spots. Go get a festive blanket and pack that food!

Illustration by Julia Frankus

Party – Throwing a party for your closest friends is the last and possibly most important thing you can do for yourself this year. With activities like a spa night, bake off, movie marathon and countless games, this party will become a longstanding tradition and hold many memories.

 

I hope you have come to terms with your current relationship status, and wish you all the best this Valentine’s Day. Watching movies, cooking and having fun with your friends is sure to keep you entertained for at least the weekend, and feel free to always come back to this article whenever you are feeling lonely, especially around Valentine’s Day. The Bark is with you this season, and hope you have an amazing holiday filled with whatever kind of love you desire.