In pink ink, I addressed my yearly Galentine’s, slipping them into the mailbox. Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays. This is coming from someone whose February 14ths once consisted of self-checkout at CVS, a pint of ice cream, and sharp glances at the pink teddy bears and chocolate hearts. Over time, I’ve found the joy of creating new traditions to dot the holidays.
Like clockwork, February elicits notifications planning Galentine’s Day. The warmth of clinking glasses and twirling in pink dresses with my many Galentines is one of my favorite traditions. Thus, I find myself at Trader Joe’s with a basket of heart-shaped cookies and cheap roses, smiling at the old couple in front of me. To me, Valentine’s Day is appreciating love in every corner of your life. Whether it’s a call to your grandparents, baking cookies for your friends, or a day with your little sister, use this Valentine’s Day to remind the people in your life that you love them.
Besides the Galentine’s Day party, when I wake up the next day with a camera roll of my friends setting up a charcuterie board or screaming the lyrics to Mamma Mia, I’ve created my own special tradition. Perhaps inspired by my Crayola kid past when Valentine’s Day was just Hershey kisses in an elementary school classroom, I’ve started mailing Galentine’s cards. Doodling on the envelopes, attempting my best cursive, and recounting memories has become a yearly tradition. Sending those long-distance friends in your life a reminder that you’re thinking of them is important, and what better way to do it than with a little message in the mail? Also, side note, I highly recommend the stationary section of Trader Joe’s to buy your Galentine’s Day cards; they are always the cutest!
Overall, when I began to acknowledge how lucky I am to be so loved, Valentine’s Day completely shifted. Yes, it’s fun to be surprised by a bouquet of roses, but if that’s not you this February 14th, that’s okay. Get the flowers for yourself, I’m not kidding. I just bought a bouquet of sunflowers, and I smile every time I see them in my kitchen. After all, the relationship you have with yourself affects every corner of your life. In addition to reaching out to friends, slow down and appreciate how far you’ve come. This Valentine’s Day, take the time to smear on a facemask, slip on your coziest PJs, and make yourself a meal, if that feels right.
I’ve gone from the stickers and M&Ms Valentine’s Day of elementary school, to the begrudging ice cream and The Notebook Valentine’s Day of high school, to celebrating the relationships I have in my early 20s. The Valentine’s Day I celebrate now is molded by the traditions I’ve created over the years. After all, Valentine’s Day means so much more than a romantic gesture.