Valentine’s Day is a holiday celebrated all over the world in many different ways. There are traditions which have been passed down from generation to generation which people partake in to this day. These traditions usually include the gift of many various objects, but a universal emotion on this day is love. Usually this day encourages people romantically connected to express their love, but that doesn’t mean those who are single can’t enjoy the holiday as well. 

Below is a video which was created on Valentine’s Day back in 2015. As our country moves forward to be more inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community and other excluded communities, the message of the video shows why anyone should be able to love anyone. A value that is important at New Trier is the acceptance of all, no matter their differences. This video does a great job at highlighting the idea that we are all human with flesh, blood, and bones. Our appearance on the outside shouldn’t matter, it is what is inside that truly counts. 

Valentine’s Day has been historically known as a holiday celebrating couples, but as the tradition has grown it has branched out to the love between others beyond romantic relationships. More recently many people ask their friends to be their valentines. No matter what, there is usually an expectation of some sort of gift exchange. But not everyone is willing and or capable to go all out for Valentine’s Day. Below is a low budget craft idea great for the giving to friends and or partners. 

Supplies needed:

• 8 sheets of paper at a 1 to 2 ratio (for example 2” x 4”)
• Double sided tape (can be replaced with glue)

Something to potentially include on your four side card is either a heartfelt message, some poetry, and or something to make your valentine laugh. Here are some amazingly corny dad jokes from Good Housekeeping.

1. What did one light bulb say to the other on Valentine’s Day?
   1. “I love you a whole watt.”
2. What did the chef give to his wife on Valentine’s Day?
   1. A hug and a quiche.
3. What did one flame say to the other on Valentine’s Day?
   1. “We’re a perfect match!”
4. What did one blueberry say to the other on Valentine’s Day?
   1. “I love you berry much.”
5. What kind of Valentine’s Day candy is never on time?
   1. ChocoLATE.
6. What do you call two birds in love?
   1. Tweethearts!
7. How did the telephone propose to his girlfriend?
   1. It gave her a ring!
8. What did the ghost say to his wife on Valentine’s Day?
   1. “You look so BOOtiful.”
9. What did the baker say to his sweetheart?
   1. “I’m dough-nuts about you!”
10. What did the calculator say to the pencil on Valentine’s Day?
    1. “You can always count on me.”

Now crafts might not be everyone’s thing which is totally fine but there are a ton of other great low budgeted ideas. To many people something which took time, sweat, and love to make is better than any store bought gift, plus you don’t break your bank while expressing your affection. Another great idea is to bake a delicious treat. Below is a quick and easy recipe for beginners thanks to Rice Krispies. 

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
• 1 package (10 oz., about 40) JET-PUFFED Marshmallows

OR

• 4 cups JET-PUFFED Miniature Marshmallows
• Food coloring (optional)
• 6 cups Kellogg’s® Rice Krispies® cereal
• Canned frosting or decorating gel
• Assorted candies

Directions:

1. In a large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Stir in food coloring (if desired). Remove from heat.
2. Add KELLOGG’S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated.
3. Using butter spatula or wax paper evenly press mixture into 15 x 10 x 1-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cool slightly. Using cookie cutters coated with cooking spray cut into desired shapes. Decorate with frosting and/or candies. Best if served the same day.

Other great and classical gifts for Valentine’s Day are roses and chocolates. These gifts are traditional in the US on Valentine’s Day. Many people resort to candy such as fun dip, sweetarts, lollipops, etc. Chocolate is also a solid way to go, for there is such a variety and is enjoyable by most. 

Last but not least, most people love receiving flowers. The standard flower which expresses the feeling of love is a red rose, but the selection is endless. At the end of the day, who can say no to any sort of appropriate gift?

Valentine’s Day is an exciting holiday filled with lots of love. When selecting Valentine’s Day activities keep in mind social distancing rules. If there is a desire to share Valentine’s with someone not within your pod, potentially consider the idea of taking a walk, sitting outside in a backyard, or FaceTiming. There is no better way to show your love towards your loved ones than to keep them and yourself safe.