It all seems to be a little quiet on the love and romance front for this time of year

Written by Gillie Sutherland Feb 13, 2023

Is it just me or does Valentine’s Day seem to be less of a big deal this year?

Maybe I’m just a little early, and I haven’t been to the shops in a few days, but it all seems to be a little quiet on the love and romance front for this time of year?

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining. Usually it feels like I have to redress the balance, over-compensate for flying solo, and go all-out “self-love”, just so I don’t feel I’m missing out.

In previous years I’ve really gone to town, getting myself the best fillet steak, a bottle of Chateauneuf de Pape, strawberries, even a treat of some new underwear.

And yes, Miley Cyrus, like you, I have bought my own flowers.

This year I’m not really bothered, and I couldn’t figure out whether that’s because there’s more of us now out there realising that’s it better to write our own name in the sand, and talk to ourselves for hours than it is to be in situations where we are unhappy.

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Or is it just not a big thing in Croatia?

In my, albeit limited, experience of Croatian men, I’m guessing Valentine’s Day doesn’t involve huge romantic gestures, indulgent candlelit dinners, chocolates and whispering sweet-nothings.

Which is actually a relief, because in my, more extensive, experience, those type of men usually turn out to be players, love-bombers, the ones who promise a dream and deliver a nightmare.

Not all, but mostly.

For me, I’m happy just to be doing things I love with people whose company I enjoy, so this Valentine’s Day is a little different, and I’m going to my local cafe bar for a “Games Night”.

Yes my new winter hobby is playing “Catan”, and hand on my heart I would rather be down at Varoska playing with my mates than suffering any kind of enforced romantic nonsense.

Unless Matthew McConaughey, you happen to be reading this, in which case:

“What time are you picking me up?”.

But seriously, can we still believe in love even if we don’t believe in Valentine’s Day?

I still do. I believe in love in all its forms. I believe that love is the answer. I believe only love will save the world.

Love can be in so many different moments in the day, from seeing a robin on your hike, to catching a sunset, or getting a hug from a friend.

Or winning at Catan, which is what I intend to do on Tuesday night. Go me!