Are you wondering what you’ll do this upcoming weekend for Valentine’s Day? Here are five different ways to share love without having to borrow Cupid’s bow.
Volunteer the Love
Part of what makes our military strong are the communities we build around it. Where are you involved? If you don’t have a place you volunteer, check out VolunteerMatch.org to find your dream match! Generosity grows exponentially, and volunteering is one way to spread the love this season.
The Snacks That Keep on Giving
During Halloween getting “Boo’d” was all the rage. It was “Jingled” during Christmas, and during Valentine’s Day, it’s called “Being Loved.”Ding-dong-ditching takes on a new form in this unique way to give joy to your neighbors. How to join? Put together a small box or bucket filled with snacks, drinks, or little trinkets for the family next door to enjoy and drop it off at their doorstep.
Have a Mystery Picnic!
On a regular Valentine’s Day, a night out on the town might be just what the doctor ordered, but this year it’s not recommended. To change it up, explore your local parks and pack yourself a picnic. To make the food a surprise, separately pick a few different treats. The Couple’s Institute has a fun twist on “20 questions” to help you connect with your partner more deeply.
Love Languages for Friends
The Five Love Languages aren’t just for your spouse or kids but are fantastic to use with your friends. The Languages are Quality Time, Physical Touch, Acts of Service, Words of Affirmation, and Gifts. If they are a “Words of Affirmation” person, take a few minutes and write them a letter to send in the mail about what you appreciate about them. Sometimes it’s not what you get people to show you love them, but how you love them.
Love Yourself
As milspouses, we can be the last person to tend to on our to-do list. This Valentine’s Day, allow yourself to be at the top of the list and genuinely ask yourself what you need. If you notice you could use a break, book yourself a massage or have a chat with your spouse about going for a walk 20 minutes each day by yourself. Don’t treat yourself like an ex. Kindness can go a long way, especially when it’s towards yourself.
Enjoy your day of love with those close to your heart and in your community.