We’re fast approaching Valentine’s Day and like other holidays over the past year, this one will see celebrations dampened by Covid-19. While a more subdued Valentine’s day is probably welcoming to many and posses good opportunities for those looking for a way to make their special someone feel important — those who can’t be with their Valentine are finding themselves in a very different situation. Here are some great ways to say, “be mine.”

1. Gifts

You could always go with the cliché flowers and chocolates that makes everyone’s heart do a little happy dance, but why not take advantage of the never ending ‘what-can-I-do-now?’ that follows everyone around being stuck at home all day and dive into a cute homemade gift for your special Valentine? Don’t be afraid to get creative.

Homemade gifts can be great and meaningful! One of my favorites is the “365 jar”. Here’s how it works:
• write notes to your partner on 365 pieces of paper and put them in a decorated mason jar.
• Tell your partner to take a new one out every morning.
• Topics could be about things you look forward to, favorite memories, positive words, and song lyrics.

When I tried this, I ended up getting to round 120 notes, but I found that was enough to stuff a small mason jar. There are so many other homemade gift ideas, but whatever you make, the important part is to make it personal.

Heres a link to 40 more ideas for gifts made with love.

2. Dinner Video call

Who doesn’t love a nice romantic meal between you and your lover? It’s a sweet, simple and meaningful way to show appreciation for your valentine. When being together isn’t an option on a special day, you can still “go out” for a date. Get dressed up and prepare a meal together — through a video chat — then sit down at a nice candle light table with your device and indulge in conversation with your partner. A night filled with love and memories.

3. Netflix/YouTube Party

Last, but not least, get your cozy pjs on, grab some snacks and cuddle up on your bed for a socially distanced movies date with your special someone. There are browser extensions forn Netflix and Youtube that allow you to synchronize videos with someone by sending a link — Hulu and Disney plus have similar features built in. All of them work even when you are sharing the same account if you use separate profiles. It’s a great way to be able to watch movies and videos together. If you’re looking for something new to watch, “To all the boys: Always and Forever”, is coming out on Netflix on February 12th, just in time for Valentine’s day.

Whatever you decide to do, just remember that long distance isn’t the end all be all. You can still enjoy a simple and meaningful day with your partner during a pandemic that separates you from them. Take advantage of the boredom and create an extra special day during a not so special year.