Anti-Valentine’s ideas for those down on love

For many, Valentine’s Day is not all wine and roses. In fact, it’s a day that’s looked forward to almost as much as going to the dentist or meeting with the tax guy. So for all of you out there who are not into a sappy day of forced romance, here are a few ideas to avoid the mushiness of Valentine’s Day.

Enjoy an anti Rom-Com movie night. Skip all those movies filled with mush and happy endings, and opt for something a little more realistic. A few titles to choose from are “Fatal Attraction”, “So I Married an Axe Murderer”, and “First Wives Club”.

Make a comfort food feast. We’re talking greasy pizza, messy spaghetti, and gobs of ice cream smothered in chocolate sauce. Eat all those foods you wouldn’t normally eat on a romantic date, then go back for thirds.

Go bowling. There’s something so therapeutic about hurling heavy balls at helpless pins at the end of the lane.

Pamper yourself. Stop waiting for Prince Charming to sweep you off your feet and spoil you. Do it yourself by getting a massage, spending an afternoon at the spa, or treating yourself to a pedicure.

Spread the love. Don’t have a Valentine? Then take love by the shoulders and BE someone’s Valentine through random acts of kindness. Volunteer at a senior center or a soup kitchen. Buy the person in line behind you at the coffee shop a cup of coffee. Give your parent friends a night off from the kids. Do something kind for someone who can’t possibly pay you back, and watch your anti v-day mood elevate.

Host an anti-Valentine’s Day party with all your single friends. Fun party ideas can include games like “Match the celebrity break-ups”, conversation cupcakes with anti-love messages on them, and listening to your favorite un-love music playing full blast. Suggested songs include “Since You’ve Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson, “Love Stinks” by The J. Geils Band, “Single Ladies” by Beyonce, and anything by Taylor Swift.

Prepare for “Singles Awareness Day.” The day after Valentine’s Day is reserved for those who don’t have a Valentine and are proud to show that it’s okay to be single. Taking its cue from the commercialism of Valentine’s Day (hello overpriced candy and flowers), this is a day to plan a party with other singles, and send YOURSELF flowers and candy. But because this national holiday lands on February 15th, you can also take advantage of all the post-Valentine’s Day sales.

For those avoiding love, the World’s Biggest Comedy Duo just wants to be friends. They’ll be on stage Sunday, Feb. 10 at 6th Street Playhouse in Santa Rosa from 8-10 p.m., throwing jabs at love through off-the-cuff improv. Tickets are $14. Call 523-4185. Info: www.6thstreetplayhouse.com

Perhaps you’re looking for love in all the wrong places. Have you tried looking under a rock? You could find your Frog Prince at Pt. Reyes Valentine Herp Hunt on Saturday, Feb. 16. While there, discover slimy newts, slithering snakes, and croaking toads among the wildlife at Five Brooks Pond. The hunt is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and is $25 for all ages. Call (415) 663-1200 x 373. Info: www.ptreyes.org

Should all else fail, you might just need a nudge to know what’s waiting for you just around the corner. Avoid the element of surprise by getting a Valentine Tarot Reading at Many Rivers Books and Tea in Sebastopol on Valentine’s Day from 7:30-9 p.m. You could receive answers to your questions about love, and receive a short reading on matters of the heart. The price is free, but donations are accepted. Call 829-8871. Info: manyriversbooks.com