2. Flowers
Yes, you can buy yourself flowers ! (thank you Miley - for the reminder). Splurge on a luxurious bouquet  from a florist (you are worth it!). On a budget - pick up some flowers from your local grocery store or neighbourhood flower market.

​One of my favourite flower markets are the floral shops on Avenue Road at Davenport, I've spent as little as $7.99 for a few stems , and $39.99 for a lovely bouquet that lasts up two weeks. Tell the florist it's a gift for a very special person - and they will wrap it up nicely. 

3. Go for a Stroll - explore a new neighbourhood
There are many areas of the city that are perfect for walking around - Yorkville, Distillery District , The Brick Works, Queen West or go for a walk along the waterfront to list a few. Walking not only is good for your physical health it helps clear your mind. And is also a great way to practice being in the moment as you take in the sights, sounds, smells around you.

4. Gift Yourself
Yes! after all if you were in a relationship with someone else you would be spending money on a gift for them. So TREAT yourself to something you have been putting off buying, or doing. It could be an outfit; an accessory; dinner at restaurant you have been wanting to try; something for your home.

5. Self Maintenance
Book the hair, nail appointment you have  been putting off;  before you know it there will be an unexpected warm day and you will want to break out the open toe shoes - make sure your toes are ready. Some other Self Maintenance reminders;
- massage
- dental cleaning
- chiropractor
- work on your self care planner
- update your inspiration board - note action steps to take to achieve a specific goal

6. Bubble Bath 
If you have been a follower of Resilientista you know a Bubble Bath is a favourite way to practice self care. Play your favourite music, pour your self some bubbly (sparkly water counts as bubbly); and enjoy some time with yourself. 

7. Enjoy a Meal on Your Own
Taking yourself out for a meal to your favourite restaurant or new one you have been wanting to try, is a great way to practice both self care and self love, but if you are not ready to go solo to a restaurant here are some suggestions:
- make that new recipe you have been wanting to try
- cook yourself your favourite dish
- order in or pick up some ready made options from your local market ; BUT don't just eat out of the containers PLATE IT! use the good plates , cutlery, linen napkins - light candles play some soft music. 

BONUS TIP on how to celebrate you - pick 2 or more items from the list above and make your day extra special.

 And remember when someone asks "how did you spend Valentine's - respond:  "with the most amazing person I know" ... smile and walk away ... 

​Everywhere you look social media, lifestyle blogs and magazines are saying 50 is the new 40. I too have repeated that same sentiment, and may have even included the quote 50 is the new 40 on an inspiration board. Perhaps, it was because I spent my forties healing and rehabbing from my accident - and was hoping to "recoup" that lost decade, in my fifties. But we all know that you can not get back time, once it's passed. And I have to be honest - now being 50ish I no longer believe 50 is the new 40. 50 is the NEW 50!! and I'm embracing 50 and creating the next chapter with more zest for life than I ever imagined possible.

​Whether it's actually true or hype there is no denying as we inch towards the end of January that the bounce in our step and cheerful mood from all the sparkly luster of Christmas and the holiday season has been replaced with dragging ourselves out of bed to carry on with life's day-to-day activities.  Mix in the credit card bills popping up on your screen and/ in mail box, having to bundle up, clothes feeling a little tighter from all the holiday indulgence, lack of vitamin D (sunshine), and it's no wonder we are all feeling a little blue.  And while we can't control the weather, there are a few things we can do to lift our spirits and mood, while we (not so) patiently wait the arrival of spring.