Every time I feel like I should pamper myself and indulge in extravagance, the voice of Donna Meagle comes to mind: Treat Yo Self Day! I just love her unapologetic way of carrying herself, overall lushness, and (let's be honest) that vigorous dating life!
But, If I have to pick a favorite holiday from Parks and Rec it all boils down to Leslie Nope’s Galentine's Day. In a world of sitcoms promoting female rivalry and male-centric plots, Parks and Rec outbreaks female friendship in top form, not only displaying moving scenes of women supporting women but going beyond the script and promoting a whole new holiday about it.
No wonder it took over! You don't have to be a fan, you may not even have watched the show (you should though, just saying), but you have to agree that a holiday dedicated to women coming together and celebrating their friendship and accomplishments has been in order for a long time. Roses are red, violets are blue, girlfriends are the best, let’s celebrate them too!
Ok, I know what you are thinking, it is an understatement that female friendships should be recognized all-year-round. But, if there's a mainstream holiday to promote dates in overbooked restaurants and romantic expectations set to fail (yes, I’m talking about you February 14th), there should most definitely be a day to celebrate those who are always there for us. After all, as Leslie herself put it: Galentine’s Day is to Valentine’s Day what Friendsgiving is to Thanksgiving: a chance to recognize the impact that our friends have on our lives and thank them for their steadfast loyalty, love, and laughter.
Is it your first time? Well, there's no wrong way to do it. It's as easy as telling your friends that you love and appreciate them. But, everything's better with sparkling drinks and a pleasant setup. The original grouping is over brunch, with single friends finally finding time over busy schedules and married friends ditching their husbands and boyfriends at home. Yet, the possibilities are endless. You can host a karaoke party, have a picnic, a spontaneous road trip, a relaxing spa day, virtual wine tasting (yes, this is a thing now) or even a marathon viewing party, honoring Parks and Rec, or finally catching up on Bridgerton.
Maybe you have your besties one mimosa away from you, maybe they have been there for you over many zoom calls during this arduous past year, or maybe you have that one good friend that makes for a whole pack in your life. In all scenarios, I hope you do celebrate and take the day to acknowledge the strength of female friendships and make it a spectacular feast. Happy Galentine's!
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