Let 's start by stating the obvious, having your significant other away during holidays and days like Valentines sucks. Period. And no matter what anyone else says you will not get used to their absence even more when everybody else arounds you has their better half with them.
However, there are many ways in which you can still make it memorable and enjoy the day even while they are miles away.
Before we start let's make their day better... if you can plan ahead and have an APO address or a way of communicating make it special. Send a themed care package with their favorites or make it a video chat date. If you have kids and have time to plan ask a family member or friend if they can watch the kids in your home for a bit while you enjoy a quite chat. If none of these work, e-mails can be a great way to let them know you are thinking of them.
Now, let's make it about you!
You deserve some time off. Valentine's day is also about the relationship with yourself and the friendships in your life so cater the time to those.
Celebrate yourself and show some self-love. Take time to do something you love on this day. Enjoy a book while watching the sunset, go to the movies by yourself, grab coffee and visit your favorite botanical garden, set up a spa appointment...
Remember that taking care of yourself more so during a deployment can be very beneficial.
Don't forget to make time for your friends! Reach out to your friends and plan something fun even if it is for a couple of hours. Meet them for brunch, go on a hike, grab coffee, take a paint class, do yoga at the park, go get a pedi with them. It always feels good to be with friends who know what you are going through and want to spend the day together as well.
It is tough but prioritizing yourself and the relationships in your life is what keeps you going through tough times.
And know that if you want to be alone on this day then that is totally ok too. Find what makes you happy and how you want to celebrate the day.
Xo