February has arrived and you know what that means – Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching! So whether you celebrate with family, friends or that special someone, make February 14^th a day to remember with festive treats and fun DIY everyone will love.

There are certain traditions that go hand in hand with the holidays, and cookies are one you don’t want to forget. This year, get in the baking spirit and don’t make just one type of cookie, try out a few great recipes. Keep it pink with homemade strawberry cake mix cookies or get fancy with chocolate dipped shortbread – it’s sure to be a delicious process!

Valentine’s Day is about being with those you care about, so make it a party with a cookie bar – get pink and red toppings and make your own sweet works of art. If sugar cookies are in the mix, be sure to impress everyone with this chocolate sugar cookie recipe – a delicious twist on a fan-favorite. Kids and adults alike will have fun decorating their very own desserts. And the best part? You can personalize everything and give them as gifts!

The holiday would not be complete without some fun DIY for the home. Try making these candle cozies for around the house. Take some ribbon or twine (whichever you prefer), wrap it around the candles and add a felt heart to the front. It’s a great way to add a little color to the mantle. And if you’re looking to share the love with your neighbors, make a tissue paper wreath! It’s an easy project with a big burst of Valentine spirit.

Whether you give them as gifts or enjoy these delicious treats and DIY tips for yourself, Valentine’s Day is all about spending time with those you love. So enjoy time together and bask in this sweet day.

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Now that the holidays have come and gone, don’t let those winter blues settle in just yet. There are so many great events in the Tri-Valley, so check your schedule and plan ahead.

Go On a group hike and experience the natural beauty of Little Yosemite in Sunol, CA. A moderate level trail with canyon views and waterfalls, this scenic hike will get your blood pumping and stomach rumbling just in time for lunch. Bring the whole family and have fun exploring this nearby wilderness area.

Still feel like being in the great outdoors? Then join the Community Harvest event in Danville – the perfect way to enjoy the day and give back to the community. Here you will get the chance to help harvest fruit and other fresh produce to give to local soup kitchens and food banks. It’s a great opportunity to meet others and start the year by giving back.

Step back inside the big top and prepare for awe-inspiring acrobatics, Cirque Du Soleil is stopping by San Jose with their show, LUZIA: A Walking Dream of Mexico. Prepare to be transported to a whole other world where nothing is quite as it seems. Make it a date night or bring the whole family, with a limited tour you wont want to miss this critically-acclaimed show.

And finally, February is the month of love so get ready to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a wine and chocolate evening at Concannon Vineyard, a historic winery in Livermore. Whether with your Valentine or Galentine, you can indulge in delicious chocolate and wine at one of America’s oldest ongoing wineries in the country. Enjoy the perfect pairings and keep the day sweet with that special someone.

With so much happening it’s hard to believe it’s only February!

To make sure you’re always in the loop and up to date with everything happening in your community, be sure to Like the Ponderosa Facebook page.