Valentine’s Day used to be for the birds – literally. Back in the 5th century, February 14th marked the start of birds’ mating season. According to one version of history, human romance didn’t enter the picture until much later when Chaucer published “Parliament of Foules,” a 1375 poem that somehow connected birds, people, and love. Who knew?
It was almost another whole century before the humans – not the birds – began exchanging cards and gifts to celebrate their love.
Fast forward to the 21st century, where Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate all the special relationships in our lives. Now that you are a venerable senior, that means a multigenerational list of honorees. Whether you are spending Valentine’s Day with significant others, children, grandchildren, or dear friends old and new, here are some ideas to create a memorable and meaningful event that even cupid would be proud of.
The Gift of Quality Time
There is no gift quite as priceless as time with family and friends - especially the little ones. If you’re looking for Valentine’s ideas for the kids and grandkids, there are tons of options that everyone can enjoy.
· If weather isn’t an issue, grab a grandkid and take a special stroll around the block. You’d be amazed how they relax and open up without the distractions of TVs and iPads.
· Organize a craft project for the little ones and spend a delightful hour creating magical artwork with them. Why not make each other Valentine’s Day cards?
· Spend the afternoon at a movie of their choice. Or get tickets to a live show. Don’t forget the popcorn.
· Plan a visit to a kid friendly museum.
· Bring all the ingredients for your favorite recipe and have a family cooking event.
Gifts That Keep on Giving
Anybody can do the flowers and candy thing on Valentine’s Day. It’s a no brainer. Instead, this year when pondering Valentine’s Day gifts for family, make it something personal.
· If it is for a significant other, look through old albums and find a photograph that captures a special moment you shared. Frame it and there you have a gift that is sure to elicit a smile each time they see it.
· Your grandkids will love experiencing a book with you. Choose one that you love and make reading time part of your visits every time you get together.
· Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to pass along something that was meaningful to you as a kid or something the little ones have always admired when visiting you.
· Organize a lunch or dinner with family or friends. Sharing a meal is a great way to make Valentine’s Day special.
Celebrate the Love at Overture
Are your kids far away? Is the best you can hope for on Valentine’s Day a short FaceTime call as they juggle activities? Your friends who are already rightsized into an Overture premier senior apartment community can totally relate. Instead of sitting in an empty family home wondering where everybody went, they are living, laughing and loving the best of retirement life with a warm and welcoming community of like-minded peers.
Valentine’s day at Overture may involve a group card game, special movie night, or pot luck dinner in one of the designated public spaces, or in your upscale, state-of-the-art apartment. No matter how you spend the holiday, you’ll be surrounded by friends, fun and the Valentine’s Day spirit.
Overture: The senior apartment community with heart. Book a tour today.