Celebrate Friendships this Valentine’s Day

When I was a kid, I LOVED Valentine’s day. I would wake up in the morning, and my parents would surprise my brother Jared and me with fun gift baskets, chocolate, and heart shaped pancakes. But my favorite part of the day was going to school with my decorated shoe box and handing out personalized Valentine’s to everyone in my class. Every year it was a big deal deciding which Valentine’s cards I wanted to get, and it was so much fun looking through all of the cards (and candy) I had gotten from my classmates.

Then, as you grow up, Valentine’s turns into a couple’s day, and it feels like you have to be a part of a couple in order to celebrate. I love my husband, and look forward to a Valentine’s date night (which we usually end out having a few days early or a few days late), but I really miss Valentine’s being more of a holiday to tell your friends that you care about them.

One of my FAVORITE shows on TV is Parks and Recreation, and if you’ve ever watched it, you know that Leslie Knope is the queen of giving the perfect gifts. She created Galentine’s Day (Feb. 13) as a day for girls to celebrate their friendships. It is such a fun idea, and I want to challenge you to remember to do something special for your friends, family, and coworkers this Valentines, especially any single friends you have that may feel left out.

Here are a few fun surprises, cards, and gift ideas to help celebrate your friendships this Valentine’s Day.