posted February 14, 2007 04:40 PM         

Single on Valentine's Day?
Then you're free to enjoy it..Here are five new, interesting and fun ideas for celebrating solo.

by A.K. Boyle
Published: 02/13/2007
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If you're not hooked up this February 14th, you're in luck. Celebrate this year without laying eyes on an arrow. Who says a day of love is a day for couples? Singles are taking back Valentine's Day by storm!

Throw a singles party
You're hardly the only one on your own today so why not form a united front. Host a gathering for your single friends, and if you're feeling disinclined toward winged cherubs, keep the night free of reds and pinks. (Take that as you will: un-themed parties are certainly acceptable, but if black hearts should dominate the decór, so be it.) However you celebrate, make it a night you won't forget!

Go on a date…with friends
Have dinner with close friends, and think about what you'd be missing if you were elsewhere. Many a Valentine's have been wasted with transient sweethearts, and even long-term significant others aren't likely to outlast your best buds. Even if you can't be with your nearest and dearest, spend a night with people you enjoy. If that includes a couple or two, and you're feeling generous, let them crash your intimate evening. They deserve to have a little fun, too. Just make sure there's at least one other single around.

Treat Yourself
Do something for yourself you wouldn't normally do. Get yourself to the spa for a facial and a massage and don't even think about feeling guilty about it. Your relationship with yourself is important, and you're worth a splurge now and then! Pick up some flowers on the way home to help make your home soothing and welcoming. If you can't swing the spa today (they can get a little crowded this time of year), create your own. Invest in some sumptuous skincare products, and don't forget the candlelit bath and the music!

Share the love
It doesn't have to be about sappiness and coupling at all. Let Valentine's Day be an excuse to connect with the people you care about. When you send cards to your friends and family, you're making more than a few smiles. Simply expressing love can be tremendously fulfilling. It can also help strengthen those bonds, so don't be surprised if you see a little love coming back your way. While you're at it, use this day to send cards to casual acquaintances as well There's no harm in a little Valentine's networking!

Make it yours
Since retailers and couples seem to be bent on making this day crucial, go with it! Make Valentine's a day you use for yourself, in whatever way you need it. Go to a bookstore and collect books on things you've always wanted to know, or just a little something to curl up with tonight. Treat yourself to some you-time at the gym, or get yourself that sweater you've been admiring. It's a holiday. Why shouldn't it be dedicated to you?