Single on Valentine’s Day? This one’s for you

Ah, February 14th… the holiday that some believe was made solely to sell Hallmark cards. The holiday where people give treats, balloons and stuffed animals to that “special someone.” The holiday where a couple has a beautiful, romantic day, feeling love, exchanging tender words, knowing that nothing can separate them.
Sickening, right?
Some people don’t have a significant other to share the day with. But there is no need to wallow in loneliness. This can be a day to stay in and enjoy time at home, or to go out and celebrate independence. So here are some ideas to help fill the day with fun.

Show love to family and friends:
A person doesn’t need to have a significant other to feel love. Whether it’s shooting an appreciative text to a family member or giving a gift to a friend or coworker, doing something nice for someone will ultimately make both people feel happy.
Eat what you want:
Have a favorite restaurant in the valley? Go and eat there! Eating alone means nobody will complain about the restaurant. For those who are eating at home, why not cook a little something fancy? Pasta? Steak? Salad? Go nuts!
Sleep in:
This year there is no school on Valentine’s Day! It’s a weekend! Make the most of this free time by catching up on all that sleep missed since Aug. 31
Stay off social media:
Be honest. Who really wants to watch all those couples enjoying each other’s company on this day of love? Nobody over here.
Go out and treat yourself:
Why not show some love for yourself instead of someone else? Get a haircut! Get a mani-pedi! See a movie! Whatever will make you happy, please do it.
Valentine’s weekend getaway:
Whether alone or with friends, a short day or weekend trip is a good way to forget the worries of the week and have a good time.
Splurge:
For anyone who isn’t shopping for another person this year, spend that money on yourself! Nobody knows precisely what you want except you. Whether it’s a box of chocolates, or something you’ve wanted to purchase for a long time, buy it.
A serious note:
Remember, there is NOTHING WRONG with being single on Valentine’s Day. It’s all about perspective. Think of all the benefits of not having someone’s expectations to meet this LoveFest Season. Your schedule is your own. You don’t have to deal with the commercialized pink garbage that spawns the moment February begins. While everyone else is crazed and stressed about pleasing their significant other, you can focus on NUMBER ONE. Do try to enjoy yourself. You’re worth it!
Finally… bake something:
Everyone likes a sugary treat to lift their spirits, and this chocolate M&M recipe from thesaltymarshmallow.com looks tempting….

Recipe for Chocolate M&M Valentine’s Day cookies
• Prep Time: 10 min.
• Cook Time: 15 min.
• Total Time: 25 min.
• Servings: 12
Ingredients
• 1 cup salted butter (2 sticks)
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup M&M’s divided, Valentine’s colors preferred
Instructions
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
• In bowl of stand mixer, or in large bowl, using hand mixer, beat together the butter and suagar for 2-3 min., until light and fluffy. Turn mixer to low speed, and add the eggs one at a time. Add almond extract. Scrape down bowl as needed.
• Keeping mixer on low, add cocoa powder until well blended. Add flour, salt and baking powder, mixing just until incorporated.
• Stir in chocolate chips and ½ cup of the M&M’s.
• Divide dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, place on prepared baking sheet, and flatten slightly with your hand. Repeat with remaining dough and top with the extra ½ Cup of M&M’s as desired.
• Bake in preheated oven for 13-16 min. Allow to cool for 10 min. on baking sheet before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Makes 12 large cookies.
• Enjoy!