Cici,
As you may recall from past years, I've enjoyed the opportunity to use a Valentine's Day theme for my birthday party. Guests are invited to:
1. Cut a heart out of paper and decorate it if they like;
2. Inscribe the words of their favorite quote on love, favorite love song, love poem, etc. on the heart; and
3. Pin the heart on their shirts, or literally "wear their heart on their sleave."
Throughout the party, people mingle and read each other's hearts. Interesting, soulful conversation inevitably flows easily, as does laughter and flirtation. At some point later in the evening, the party turns briefly into a poetry reading when guests are invited to read their quotes (optional), and explain why the words are significant to them. Others are free to comment, and there are often collective sighs of appreciation!
In the past, the heartfelt parts have been balanced by lots of laughter, and merry-making around outdoor activities -- snow tubing and broomstick ice hockey being the most memorable when I lived in Lincoln. Did you know that a couple who met on the ice got engaged about a year later?
Guests, some of whom arrive without quotes, have also enjoyed the opportunity to create Valentine's at the party with the art supplies and collage materials. Over the years, I've also collected a small library of books on love and relationships, and guests are invited to flip through the books for ideas and inspiration.
I'd welcome your help this year exploring how we might use the internet to extend this party format to friends and family in other parts of the country, who have reconnected in the past year through positive events like holidays and reunions, as well as the tragic parts of life like Kipp's death.
It would be very satisfying to me to see you, Collie, and Jaime adopt this idea to your own friends. February can be bleak and lonely, and done right, a Valentine's Day party can help friends connect at level of depth and playfulness that is truly memorable.
Feel free to comment below, and know that I may send this to other friends and family members for their feedback, too.
Dad
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