Galentine's Day weekend recap

I used to dread Feb. 14.  As someone who has always been single, I hated seeing couples be all mushy, and dreaded the parade of flowers and gifts.  But a few years ago, I decided it was time to stop dreading the day.  It was just another day on the calendar ... and just because I didn't have a guy didn't mean I couldn't enjoy the holiday.

This year has probably been my favorite Valentine's Day yet.  I spent the entire weekend with people I adore, which is really what it should be all about.  Stealing a cue from Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler's character on "Parks and Rec"), I've dubbed it Galentine's Day for the forseeable future.

Friday, I wore the new Nathan Angelo shirt I won on Twitter a few weeks ago.  It was perfect since it was red, one of my favorite songs, and a great message for the day.

That evening, I got to hang out with my friend, Ashley.  We did manicure (for me) and pedicure (for her).

Manicure in Malaga Wine by OPI.

Then we headed off to dinner at the Mongolian grill. And no Galentine's Day is complete without dessert, right?

Cheesecake rangoons with ice cream.  Yum!

Saturday, I had plans to get up and be productive, but I chose a lazy morning of reading instead.  It was just what I needed before time with friends.

Valentine's Day selfie. I had to. My hair was looking so good!

Then, I headed out to meet up with Savannah and Jaci for lunch at Malo, a restaurant I've been wanting to try for a long time.  I was not disappointed.  My beef barbacoa enchilada was delicious.

So delicious!!!

After lunch, we headed to El Bait Shop, a local bar that boasts more than 100 beers on tap.  They were celebrating stout month, so I definitely indulged in two stouts -- Creme Brulee by Bierbrouwerij Emelisse (Netherlands) and Chocolate Double Stout by Zipline (Lincoln, Neb.).  I finished the beer day with one of my favorite beers of all time -- Fixed Gear by Lakefront (Milwaukee, Wis.). 

Beer!!

Saturday ended with a chick flick double-feature with Jaci and Savannah.  It seems the latter had not seen "Pitch Perfect" or "Magic Mike."  We changed that and enjoyed the laid back night in.

It really was a perfect holiday weekend.  I couldn't have asked for anything more.