This week is bound to be extra special. First up, tomorrow is Valentine’s Day. The weekend will see the City of Melbourne come alive during the White Night Festival and taking walks into some adventurous terrains will all be in a days work! So let’s get to it.
First of all, if you’re waiting for one day to show your partner how special they are? Well, you have messed up. Don’t wait for one day. Make everyday special.
I’m breaking this section up based on the length of your relationships.
Valentine’s Day
New Relationships (less than 3 years)
Ah, the smell of new love! Isn’t it all, just so intoxicating? Now, I’m not one to recommend going out and splurging on gifts as I find making things for the other person the best expression of love. However, in this case, I am breaking my rule. You’d want to go out for a nice dinner. In the east – I would easily recommend:
- Junior Tan’s. But then again, I am biased as I love their food too much!
- Mum’s Burger Kitchen – Good burgers. Try the pork belly but also ensure you do their milkshakes.
Both of the above places also do take away if you don’t get a reservation.
Alternatively, a night out at the movies could just be the ticket. (Get it? Ticket? Man I am hilarious!!)
Been Together (3 to 5 years)
You know each other well and know the doozies that the other bring. Like he snores in his sleep. She complaints that you don’t like romantic movies. Yet, the snoring gives you the security that he’s right there next to you or the fact he is willing to go to the movies and sit through the entire thing be annoyed. That’s love in action.
It’s here that I’d recommend breakfast in bed. My favourite go to recipe? Eggs florentine. I choose not use as much butter and they still turn out great. You really can’t mess it up.
Alternatively, a hand made gift – something about the highs and lows you have spent together. I know it takes time, but plot it all out on a computer then handwrite it out. Yes. HANDWRITE IT. This takes effort. Come on people show that you care.
Otherwise, strawberries dipped in chocolate and champagne. Brilliant.
Married, Kids, Partners and such (5 years and beyond)
When it comes to relationships that have kids, it’s not going to be easy to get something handmade for the wife or husband. If you both are career driven, then having a night where you come together for a meal is just as important. And if you have young kids, maybe spending the time with them together and telling about how you guys met, your dates will help relive those memories and will bring a smile to your faces.
Single (for whatever reason)
You know what? There is only one person in this world that you are truly with and that is yourself. When was the last time you treated yourself to some pampering? Did you know that most people cannot even bear to look themselves in a mirror and say “I love you” 10 times? You don’t need to be in a relationship to feel whole – that is setting yourself up to be in a co-dependent and unhealthy relationship fraught with trouble. You need to understand who you are, what you want in a partner (and why you want it) and then make yourself into the kind of person that your potential partner would want. In all honesty, would you date you? It’s harsh I know, and you’re sick of all the lovey dovey stuff around you. So what! Enjoy the day, go out for a walk. Take a nice stroll on the beach and be happy for the other people that have found love. If you are feeling low, go hang out with some baby animals and you will come away with a pep in your step. Even better, go volunteer and you will be instantly grateful for all the blessings in your life.
At the end of the day, no matter what your relationship status – be grateful that you are alive. There are so many people that won’t wake up today. And if you are in a relationship – maybe this song will give you an idea.
White Night
This weekend is the white night festival and it’s going to be the biggest one yet. Every year, the event grows with last year capping off at close to 500,000 people in the city. As you could guess, I have a guide to get you through it. And I will be there wandering, taking pictures and cursing the slow death of my phone battery!
Life And Living
I stumbled across these awesome links that will really help with my own wanderings and adventuring that I simply had to share it with you guys!
This is going to be fun – keep an eye out for all the nature shots!
The Domestic Traveller 