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IDEAS Wondering what you can do for that special person in your life on February 14? Here are a few simple suggestions. SAMVITHA RAM

It’s that time of the year when cute SMS messages are being passed around asking how much you love your friends and testing the ’strength’ of your relationships using cheesy quizzes. Yes, folks, it’s Valentine’s Day! Love is in the air. We’re all getting ready to celebrate this wonderful day, whether you’re planning to declare your love for the first time or cherish many amazing moments you’ve had in a long-time relationship.This beautiful day, however, is also a nightmare of sorts because of the pressure of trying to get that ‘perfect gift’ for your special someone. This year, wipe out those boring old traditions and do something new. Instead of succumbing to an uninventive presents like chocolates or big, stuffed hearts, try one of these creative ideas to show your loved one or even a close friend how much they mean to you.

Photographic memories

You’ve always been told that a picture’s worth a thousand words. Then what about a whole album of pictures? In today’s world where everyone has at least 300-400 pictures uploaded onto their Facebook and Twitter accounts, it shouldn’t be too hard to find some cute pictures of you and your friend: separately and together. Once you’ve selected about 20delightful pictures, head to the nearest gift shop and buy a mini-album that allows you to add personal messages on each page. Stick the pictures in and caption them as you wish. If you’re willing to take the extra effort, leave the last few pages blank, take pictures on Valentine’s Day and add them to the album by the end of the day.

Dinner for two

They say that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. But whether you’re a man or woman, who wouldn’t love to be treated to a delicious meal, especially one cooked by someone close to your heart? This Valentine’s Day, instead of going out to a fancy meal like most other couples will, stay home and make your loved one dinner. Cooking his or her favourite dish will just make the meal even more special for you both, especially if it’s a food you enjoy as well. If you’re feeling brave, go ahead and make a dessert as well - our favourites include mini-cupcakes and chocolate pudding. And don’t forget the candles!Movie night

So maybe you can’t cook. Well, don’t worry, all isn’t lost. You can still plan a special night in by renting a few of your favourite movies and spending the evening with a bucket of popcorn, one medium pizza and two glasses of Coke (refill and adjust this recipe as necessary!). Though Valentine’s Day is supposed to be romantic, if you two are comedy movie buffs go for a funnier alternative like “Bridget Jones’s Diary” or “Love Actually”. But if you want to stick to watching a lovey-dovey movie, might we suggest some of the classics: “When Harry Met Sally”, “The Notebook” and “P.S. I Love You”.

A love letter

Those who say that ‘actions speak louder than words’ are sadly mistaken. Sometimes all it takes are a few loving words to make someone’s day. So, we say: go back to tradition —to the time without e-mail or SMS, and take the time to send your friend a hand-written letter. Whether you’re the type to write about a few special moments you’ve spent together or go on for pages about your feelings, you’ll sure bring a smile to your friend’s face. If you’re stuck for ideas, then look up a romantic poem or quote, jot it down, and write about how the poem is significant to your relationship. Just listen to your heart and the words will follow.

Samvitha is a student of American International School. 

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