Valentines: For the Girls
By Brooklyn C.
There is something particularly special about spending the day of love with friends. Valentine’s can become Galentine’s, rings can become friendship bracelets, and roses can become sunflowers. In light of the fact that NSA is an online school, here is a list of homey ways to spend this year’s Galentine’s Day.
When it comes to a cozy-night-in, there is nothing better than a rom-com. My sister and I have streamed countless of them over the years and enjoy it every time. I find that watching one with long-distance friends can work by streaming it at the same time and chatting over text. There are platforms that allow you to stream it live from afar, but I recommend saving the money for popcorn and simply clicking “play” at the same time as your friend. Otherwise, invite some local friends over or make an event out of it for yourself. Grab the fluffiest blankets and comfiest pillows you can find, a fun drink, and some candle-lit lighting to set the scene and you are good to go!
Now, what goes better with a romantic comedy than a delicious desert? Use your inner-grandma to scroll on Pinterest and find the perfect treat to bake. Then, spend the afternoon with your favorite playlist and a new-found Pinterest recipe and bake to your heart’s content. A few of my personal favorites are cinnamon rolls, muffins, and cookies (all of which can be dyed red or shaped into hearts if desired). If you are more into cooking, try to master the art of making pizza or creating heart-shaped hashbrowns. No worries if the treat turns out wonky; they were made with love after all.
Last but not least, pick a restful activity you love that you never seem to have time for. This could be making clay trinkets, going on a walk, visiting a local market, or completing a sudoku. It could be swimming, picking up a novel, scrapbooking, or building a LEGO set. Spend an afternoon or evening with no goals other than to work on this activity. One way I love to relax is by reading my Bible at a coffee shop, usually with a vanilla cappuccino at hand and my phone out of reach. Perhaps you could bring a friend along. Find the time to catch up with someone you wish you could be around more. Challenge your long-distance best-friend to send a picture of their attempt at the activity to see who did it better. The options are limitless.
Try to laugh along with a rom-com, relish a sweet treat, or find time for a hobby to celebrate. At the very least, phone a friend to remind them how much they are loved. Happy Galentine’s Day.
Columns: 🗓️Seasonal
Brooklyn C. is in twelfth grade and has been with NSA for four years. She spends her free time painting and drawing, in hopes of pursuing a career in children's book illustration. She also enjoys running, going on walks, listening to music, studying, watching movies, reading and travelling.