Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you are pretty familiar with the concept of Valentine’s Day. You know, that day each year that you celebrate love and the person that makes your heart go pitter patter. But did you know there is a lesser known holiday that is celebrated on February 13th, Galentine’s Day.

Thank you Parks and Recreation.

A show I truthfully never watched is responsible for a holiday that has found more and more traction since 2010. As Cosmopolitan dubs it a “fake holiday”, they also say it is one that we should be adding to our calendar. And if you want to complete history of Galentine’s Day, National Today has broken it all down for us. 

So what’s so special about this counterfeit holiday?

Celebrate the bestie in your life.

Galentine’s Day is, simply put, a day to celebrate those female friendships that you hold dear.

So how can you pay homage to the best girls in your life?

A quick internet search gives countless ideas and options. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Build a Box from Happy Box Store of some of your best friend’s favorite things. 
• Send your favorite friend some flowers by contacting your local florist. This is definitely a time when I scream #ShopLocal.
• Assure that girl that you can’t live without gets some flowers by making these DIY Mini Flower Bouquets from HOMEOHMY.
• Plan a spa day, a wine tasting,  or even just a shopping trip with that special  girl you can’t live without. 
• Host a party for your closest lady friends. (As always, keep in mind your local area’s rules on social gatherings.)
• Or check out People Magazine for several terrific ideas on celebrating virtually this year. 

So who is the GAL in my life that needs celebrating?

That would be the one and only Jessica. That statement in itself is humorous. You see I have 3 close friends named Jessica. Anytime the name Jessica is said in my house, clarifications must be made. And although I love all three, there is one that holds a deeply special place in my heart. My best friend Jessica. 

She has been my ride or die, the only person other than my husband that knows all my deep, dark secrets. We have been there  with each other through relationships, the births of all 6 of our combined children, a divorce, weddings, various deaths of family members, and everything in between for the last 2 decades. 

Geographically we aren’t as close as we once were, but physical distance doesn’t stop the love I have for that girl. We talk multiple times a week even  if it’s only via text. She makes me a better human being. I love you Jess!!!

Is there a special lady in  your life that you think needs to be celebrated? Take this time, even if  it’s just for a “fake holiday” and  tell your friend or friends just how much they mean to you.  Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Have you heard of Galentine’s Day before today? Maybe you’ve even celebrated it before. Drop your thoughts in the comments down below on what you think of this new and in need of being acknowledged, holiday.