There's something in the water over at the CL Space, because in the past few months, four of us have gotten engaged. That includes yours truly, who swore she would never, ever get married again. It also includes hardened news editor Kate Bradshaw, who took some time out from getting reporting fake news to set a date for her nuptials. Love is in the air.
That doesn't mean we're all falling all over ourselves for Valentine's Day. I mean, c'mon, it's kind of a bullshit holiday that manipulates people into spending a ton of money on overpriced greeting cards and sugar-infused chocolates. If you really love someone, you show them all year, not just on the one day where it's sorta kinda mandatory.
Look, celebrate if you want, but don't save it all up for once a year — if you love someone, show them today. And this weekend.
For drinks, catch the sunset at the Castile's rooftop bar, try the Palm Ridge Reserve at the Vinoy Verandah, watch the world go by at Tampa's Fly Bar, or listen to the water at Ceviche.
Hop a trolley and tour the artist studios and galleries in St. Pete for Second Saturday — don't forget to stop at the Morean to pick up a blown-glass something, perhaps a heart? You could also head to the Morean Center for Clay for a hands-on clay experience (no re-enacting Ghost, please!). Also Friday night: Be progressive and go to see Certain Women at Eckerd.
Saturday, head to Lakeridge for WineFest, or stay close and do a walking tour of Ybor. St. Pete side there's the Tweed Ride and the opening reception of Tyler Staggs' Connections at the Studio@620.
Sunday marks the final day of the Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts, featuring painting, sculptures and photography.
If you do all those things, we'll bet you can get by with an "I love you" on Valentine's Day, but hey, your mileage may vary. We don't want to see any relationships ending because of us. You do you, Loafers. You do you.
This article appears in Feb 9-16, 2017.