Celebrating Love, No Matter Your 'Status'

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Valentine's Day is just around the corner. But that doesn't mean you have to run and hide from the sappy Hallmark side of the holiday. There are ways to celebrate love--whether its with your friends, your family or your 'better half'--without getting swept up in the hype.
 
When in doubt, keep it simple. The best romantic gestures are homemade and from the heart. Put a single rose in their bag before they leave for work. Or leave sticky notes with handwritten affections on the mirror, in the car, anywhere they will be during the day. Avoid the crowds and the hassle by cooking or ordering take-out from a favorite restaurant. You don't have to break the bank to show your affection.
 
If you are suffering from cabin fever, this weekend may be a good one for travel. For many of us this February 14 is going to fall on a long weekend--thank you Washington and Lincoln. Celebrate that extra day by getting out of town for a romantic holiday or go with friends and skip the parade of lovey-dovey duo’s.
 
If travel and amour are not on your agenda this weekend, it doesn't mean you have to stay at home. There are, of course, the anti-Valentine's festivities for the unfettered. Concerts are another great alternative. It’s a fun medium for meeting other singles, or for an evening out with a group of friends. Visit ticketmaster.com, tourfilter.com or lastminute.com where you can search for a wide range of upcoming concerts, festivals and theater events near you.
 
But most importantly, remember that Valentine's Day is about celebrating love with others--and what better way to spread those warm, fuzzy feelings than by volunteering. Give your time to an animal shelter, tutor a child, or help your favorite nonprofit. Visit Volunteermatch.org for opportunities in your area.
 
Valentine's Day also happens to fall in the middle of the 13th annual Random Acts of Kindness Week (February 12-18). Open the door for someone, help your neighbors struggling with heavy bags, share a book or donate blood. These small deeds may change someone’s day from bad to good--and give you that glow that comes from a moment of selflessness. Visit smallactsofkindness.org for more ideas.
 
There are many ways to show love this coming holiday weekend for couples and friends. Whether it’s a much-needed getaway or to help someone in need, celebrate love.
 
We want to hear from you! How are you spending Valentine's Day this year?
 
If you found some good ideas in this piece on celebrating Valentine's Day, check out this piece on winter festivals.
 
(Photo by Johntex; C.C. 3.0)