Muse & Schmooze: Three Jew(ish) Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day may not exactly come from a Jewish place, but it’s a great all-American excuse to celebrate those we love. Here are three Jewishly-inspired ways to show your friends and family you care:

Paper-cut your own valentines
If you didn’t know, paper cutting is actually a longstanding Jewish craft tradition, and a handmade way to impress friends and family (plus you can save a few bucks by not buying store-bought cards!). The photo collage at right shows you the steps to make this happen. Here’s the gist: Sketch a design, cut it with an X-ACTO knife, back it with pretty paper held down with paper glue or tape, and personalize it!

Get in the kitchen and make some borscht
This classic Russian/Polish Jewish dish is tasty on a cold February night, plus its pretty pink color screams Valentine’s Day. Here’s a great Chosen Eats recipe, plus another option from The Jew and the Carrot.

Listen to love-themed music
The late, great, Jewish pop diva Amy Winehouse sang it loud—“There Is No Greater Love.” Composed by Isham Jones in 1936, with lyrics by Jewish songwriter Marty Symes, this classic is one of the most romantic ballads ever recorded.

So prep your cards, grab a big bowl of borscht and your iPod, and get ready to impress your loved ones. Single, married or otherwise, bring on the love!

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