NOT ANOTHER CANDLELIT DINNER Get Creative This Valentine’s Day
Roses, chocolate, and fancy restaurants are Valentine’s Day staples for a reason. They’re classic and timeless, but if you’ve done them year after year, they could also get a little bit boring. To wow your significant other this Feb. 14, think beyond the most famous ways to celebrate. They’ll probably appreciate a twist — and the time you spent making their day special. Create a relationship scrapbook. Nothing says “I love you” like a gift you’ve made with your own hands. By making a scrapbook of your favorite memories with your partner, you’ll also amaze them with your sensitivity and dedication. A scrapbook can consist of photographs, restaurant menus, movie tickets, wedding invitations, vacation souvenirs, and some carefully chosen words about why you value the relationship. Don’t be afraid to get inventive with your decorations or scour the internet for tips and tricks. Go stargazing. What’s more romantic than staring up at the stars? Your first step will be to find a local spot that’s dark and secluded enough for a good view of the nighttime sky. Once you do, your next course of action will depend on the weather. If it’s temperate, get a picnic blanket and enjoy the outdoors. If it’s cold, stay in the car, turn off the headlights, and snuggle up. Don’t forget to bring wine and a romantic snack. If all goes well, you might end up watching the sunrise.
Schedule a couples’ spa day. Forget what you think you know: Spa days are for everyone. Your other half will love the opportunity to experience a massage, sauna, and other assorted treatments. Plus, many spas offer romantic couples’ packages with champagne and chocolate- covered strawberries. Once you’re both sufficiently relaxed and looking your best, you’ll likely feel closer than ever. Some spas also offer overnight stays so you can transition seamlessly into a romantic evening. All of these ideas will take a little bit of planning, so it’s time to start dreaming up your big surprise. When you see their reaction, your only concern will be how to top yourself next year.
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It was a small wedding party of about 20 people, and a hushed silence followed the moment. Michelle’s boyfriend looked at me, then turned to her, and a look of realization came over his face. They broke up that night, and once she returned to Florida, we started dating. It wasn’t all smooth sailing. We broke up for a bit because trying to have a long-distance relationship during our advanced schooling was so crazy. But I studied in London for my last semester, and while I was away, Michelle was the only person I talked to outside of my family. When I returned to the U.S., I dropped off some graduation presents to friends, said congratulations, and skipped the ceremony. I went straight to Tallahassee to see Michelle. We’ve known each other for 28 years and have been married for 12 of them. I’m so lucky to have found Michelle, and our early meeting has convinced me that we were meant to be together. She’s my soul mate, and she makes everything I do worthwhile. We don’t know where we’d be without Georgia and Michelle, and hopefully, we’ll never have to find out. This Valentine’s Day, we’d like to thank them for their love and support. On the days we met them, we were truly blessed — and we wouldn’t change them for the world. –Zac Leacox & Nick Norden
Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breast
Inspired by DiabetesStrong.com
Ingredients
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped • 1/2 tsp curry powder • 1/2 tsp paprika • Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 chicken breasts • 2 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed • 2 canned artichoke hearts, chopped • 4 tsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped • 10 large basil leaves, chopped
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 365 F. 2. Cut a slit lengthwise to create a pocket in the middle of each chicken breast. Place the breasts on a baking sheet. 3. In a medium bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, artichoke hearts, tomatoes, basil, and garlic. 4. Divide the mixture in half and stuff each chicken breast pocket. Using toothpicks, seal the edges of the pockets. 5. Season the chicken with curry, paprika, salt, and pepper, then bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F. Remove the toothpicks and serve with rice, potatoes, salad or roasted vegetables!
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