Who says Valentine’s Day is just for lovers? Why not use this mid-winter holiday as an excuse to treat yo-self, too? I don’t know about you, but as pretty as a dozen red roses are, sometimes it’s just nice to have something I really really love. So if you’re feeling like you need an extra special dose of happy right now, read on. I’ve pulled together a list of my current Valentine’s faves that are sure to put a little pep in your step.

1. Salty Dog 2. Sweater 3. Book 4. Flowers 5. Facial Mist

NO. 1 SALTY DOG

In these lockdown times, I’ll admit - I would just LOVE to pull up to a swanky little bar and order a totally out-there cocktail concoction. I mean, I practically dream of a night on the town - especially after endless evenings in sweatpants on the sofa. And since my choices at Casa Engen are pretty much beer or wine on any given day, it makes the craving especially strong. So these days, I like to mix it up. Salty Dog is my absolute fave right now - it’s got the perfect citrus-filled flavor combo, and mixed with a little sparkling water, it’s a grade-A cocktail that would rival any bartender’s best creation. Cheers to that!

NO. 2 SWEATER

While pre-pandemic, WFH life was perfectly lovely (helloooo afternoon pop-in to Starbucks, am I right??), at this point in our lives, it’s starting to feel a little, well, tired (especially when it comes to our wardrobes). But even if no one is technically seeing you at work, it’s still nice to feel cute now and again. This lemon sweater is a total must have and has my name written all over it. I just love the whimsical print and the color infusion is the perfect antidote to surviving the rest of the winter.

NO. 3 BOOK

If you’re currently in a funk, I seriously can’t recommend this book enough. Not only does she talk about physical clutter (any Marie Kondo fans out there??) but she also dives into mental and time clutter. And let me tell you - I had no idea how much of that I was holding onto! Reading this over Christmas break was a total game changer for me and it was the best way to kick off a new year.

NO. 4 FLOWERS

Nothing lifts my mood like a bright pop of color - especially if it’s in a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Now, you can always go the dozen red roses route if you want to stick to Valentines traditions. But honestly, any flowers will do, and for me, I’m even more thrilled when I get a perfectly-arranged bouquet from Farmgirl Flowers. Tulips, Hydrangeas, Irises, you name it and they’ve got it. And in a world covered in snow, a little reminder of a spring flower may be just the thing you need.

NO. 5 FACIAL MIST

Long days spent in front of the computer can bring on those afternoon slumps like crazy. You know the ones I’m talking about - where you drink yet another cup of coffee it hopes it’ll give you that extra jolt you need to get through the day. Well, put that cold coffee pot down and listen up - I’ve got a magic solution that I am head over heels for. This facial mist has been a total lifesaver for me. I use it daily with my makeup, but it’s also a great burst of freshness whenever I need to wake up and refocus. Beauty and energy in a bottle? Well, I’ll take it.

What are your plans this Valentine’s Day? Are you doing a romantic movie night in with your spouse? Celebrating with your galentines over Zoom? Or maybe you’re giving yourself an at-home spa day worthy of a queen. No matter your plans, I hope it’s a day you love - you deserve it.