Valentine's Day is well known as the day of romance; a day for lovers and not single people.
Every year, I remember a particular Valentine's Day when I was single and working away from home and I'd not connected the date with that event. I boldly entered the dining room of the hotel I was staying in to find... low lights, lots of hearts and red candles and, of course, lots of couples having quiet, romantic conversations - heads close together, sipping champagne.
At that point my pride wouldn't allow me to turn and walk away so I decided to brazen it out. I asked for a table for one. Taken aback, the waitress took me across to one at the side of the room and I sat down and looked at the menu. Not surprisingly even the menu had a Valentine's theme. I decided to avoid the aphrodisiac offerings and selected my evening meal. It was then I noticed I was sat at the only table without a lighted candle... And lots of the couples were looking at me. I picked up my book and when the waitress returned with my glass of wine I said 'Would you light the candle please'. I decided that even if I was dining alone on this the most romantic day of the year, it didn't need to be in the dark.
This experience has stuck in my mind for many years and as we get closer to "that date" my thoughts drift to other people who may be spending Valentine's Day alone, especially if that is not their preference. You don't need to be in the dark, here are 10 things you could do to ensure you're in the light on Valentine's Day.
Have a pampering night in. Light some scented candles, have a bath, facial.....etc.
Go out with a group of friends to see an action movie or thriller.
Spend the day at the races - set yourself a budget and enjoy the excitement and possibility of a great win!
Write yourself a letter and compliment yourself on all your best qualities, talents and strengths.
Spend the day at a place where you feel at peace and happy.
Invite your single friends around and have an evening of good food, wine and playing games
Go out and do something active during the day - use up loads of energy then enjoy relaxing in a warm bath.
Go to your favourite cafe take a newspaper or good book - pretend to read it but really be people watching those around you
Ring up all your friends and chat for hours about the wonderful things which are going on in your lives.
You might not want or choose to be alone on this fine romantic day. If that's where you find yourself you don't have to feel low, treat it as a day to love yourself because, remember, 'you're worth it'.
