significant other and plan to do that with them. Or if you’re more likely to climb Mount Everest than cook, make their favourite meal. Even if you screw it up based on lack of culinary skills, that’s okay. The last option could mean doing something they have been complaining about doing or putting off because the sheer thought of it drives them into a tailspin. Perhaps their car has gotten to the point of filth where the spilt coffee on the console looks like a purposeful off hue design. Take the task upon yourself, and clean it. Doing something for your loved one that is out of the norm will show them how much you care. SPORTS TICKETS Trying to steer away from the obvious sexist implications this gift idea encompasses, getting your partner tickets to see their favorite sport team play can be a touchdown. Here in the city, you’re limited to hockey or waiting until the CFL kicks off again. (Too much pun?) If you’re anything like me, you hate sitting in a cold arena while cheering on toothless men scrambling over a puck and smashing into each other against hard boards. That doesn’t scream “fun” no matter who’s playing. On any other given day, the only thing that would entice me enough to participate in such an activity is the heroin beer and overzealous crowds. So whether your partner likes the Flames or any other team, getting them tickets to cheer on their boys would make a great gift. TAKE A TRIP Planning a trip away doesn’t have to be insanely expensive. Weekends to Vancouver or anywhere on the West Coast are close enough it doesn’t have to break the bank. Or maybe you really want to spoil them, and you’ve been talking about ditching the dreary Calgary winter since the first signs of negative temperatures. In that case, book a trip to somewhere tropical. You’d be surprised how refreshing a week in Mexico can be.
WINE TASTING What can be better than a gift devoted to love and wine, or rather and probably more accurately put, the love for wine. There are a number of wine tastings in and around Calgary. Beyond the red stained teeth, for most I think, it’s safe to say wine allures romance. Europeans are known for their suave demeanor, and they practically drink it with morning coffee. A romantic night sipping on wine and enjoying each others company might just be the thing to make Valentine’s Day go off without a hitch. SCAVENGER HUNT Depending how long the two of you have been together, recreating significant events from your months, years, or lifetime can be extremely romantic. Chronologically, choose events that have mapped out your relation ship and take them through it. The place you had your first date, your first kiss, or the place you said I love you for the first time. Choose the most important for the two of you, and relive it. It also might be a nice idea to take a camera along, and make it a photo scavenger hunt. It will feel nice turning back the clock and experiencing those magical moments for a second time. Although some couples may find that Valentine’s Day is a day that forces you to express your undying love for your partner, you can still have fun with it. Flowers, oversized stuffed animals, and a box of chocolates are a desperate thing of the past. Instead of blending in with the masses, try one of these Valentines Day ideas. You’ll surprise your partner and raise the bar for next year!
Jessica Bartsch #TAKEITORLEAVEIT
OilfieldPULSE | FEBRUARY 2015
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