Citylife in Lichfield February 2020

Love Me Do…
By Jo Howell, (a self-confessed singleton but always hopeful!)
As Valentine’s Day fast approaches, you may be thinking
about booking a table at your favourite restaurant or
whisking your loved one away for a romantic break. Or you
may be scratching your cupids’ arrow and trying to think of
something a little different to show your loved one how
much they mean to you.
We thought we’d offer you some top tips to make
February 14th one to remember – and there’s not a cheesy
rom-com with Hugh Grant in sight!
Cupid’s Tip #1 – The Mix Tape
If you are of a certain age, you will know that receiving a
‘mix tape’ from you beloved was a sign of true love. And
what’s not to like – all your ‘couple’ favourite songs in one
place. Romantic is an understatement. Whilst making a tape
may be a little harder these days, you could make a playlist
with your songs on and ask Alexa to start playing it as soon
as they wake up and mutter, I Love You.
Cupid’s Tip #2 – The Love Voucher
This idea is simple, effective, lasts ages and is free – whoop!
Create a simple token of your love - quite literally – by
having a number of treats on them that your loved one can
‘cash in’ throughout the year. These could include a foot
massage, breakfast in bed or no chores at the weekend. Let
your imagination run wild with the ideas and try not to look
too smug when you hand over the gift that keeps on giving.
Cupid’s Tip #3 – Relive Your First Date
One sure fire way to earn some romantic brownie points
is to arrange a carbon copy of your first date. Depending on
how long ago it was, can you even organise to wear the same
outfit?
Did you go to the cinema to see a cheesy film? If you can’t
get to the actual cinema, why not recreate it at home? Go
for a drink beforehand, find the same film, get the popcorn
in, turn down the lights and plan your second date.
Cupid’s Tip #4 – Send A Love Letter
Centuries ago, Roman men would write romantic letters
to women that mentioned St Valentine of Rome, the patron
of love, to portray how smitten they were. Here in 2020, the
modern-day love letter is typed out on a small screen with a
heart emoji - not quite as romantic I’m sure you’d agree. But
wouldn’t it be simply wonderful to deliver a handwritten
(with proper ink) love letter declaring your undying love for
you significant other? Ahh, be still my beating heart.
Cupid’s Tip #5 – Adopt A Foreign Tradition
It’s not all red roses and chocolates you know. Oh no. Our
Danish cousins give snowdrops and anonymous funny
poems, whilst in Germany pig-inspired gifts and delicacies
are plentiful as pigs are seen as a symbol of luck and lust. In
the Czech Republic the country’s main day of love is May 1st
when lovers kiss under cherry trees for happiness and good
health and, in Estonia, the day is also called ‘Friend’s Day’ –
where riding the ‘love bus’ is said to give single people luck
and a chance to find romance.
Whatever you and your loved one choose to do;
remember it’s about showing your love and appreciation for
each other. It’s not about spending loads of money on flashy
presents, just keep it simple and from the heart. Let your
true love shine through this Valentine’s Day.
And as for me... I’m buying a one-way ticket to Estonia!
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