Moms are experts at neglecting our friendships, even at the best of times. Between work, PTA meetings, children, family obligations – even in the “before COVID times” we went far too long between a good girls’ night out. Enter a pandemic and a whole new obstacle has entered the scene.
With Galentine’s Day upon us, maybe it’s just a good reminder that we need to nourish and celebrate our friendships. Never heard of “Galentine’s Day”? I had not either, but I am HERE for it! This fake holiday was created about a decade ago by a loved TV character around my house, Leslie Knope of Parks and Recreation. It falls the day before that often dreaded romantic day, also aptly coined “Singles Awareness Day”.
So how can we celebrate our gal pals during these crazy times? Here are a few of my ideas:
Sip and Dish
Don’t underestimate how good for the soul it is to grab a tea or wine for a Zoom chat can be! I do this regularly and it has saved my sanity. Your girlfriends offer perspective, advice, support and laughs that no one else in your life quite nails. If you have not been having regular Zoom meetings with your people, DO IT. Galentine’s Day is the perfect excuse!
Make a Plan
OK, so we can’t actually DO anything together, but we can make PLANS and that is sometimes enough to keep us going. A couple of years ago I did a Mud Run with my sisters and friends and we had a blast. We signed up to do another crazy race this summer. We have to live with hope! This time last year, I was heading on a cruise with my women folk to celebrate an Auntie’s big birthday. Does a woman in your life have a milestone birthday coming up? Make a plan. We all need things to look forward to, if for the mental health benefit alone!
Do a Porch Drop
A little surprise on the porch is the perfect pick me up for your friends. It doesn’t have to be anything big or crazy. It truly is the thought that counts. In need of a couple of simple ideas?
- Beautiful soaps
- Candles
- Face masks
- Wine
- Chocolate
- Books – All my gal pals love Karma Brown’s newest novel!
- ANY inside joke item you have with that friend. For example, I could throw a bag of barbeque chips on my friend Kelly’s porch, and she would KNOW it’s from me!
We’ve all had a bit of a year. Let’s not forget to connect with our friends. We all really need it.
