Good morning LAL. Abby here. I love seeing your creativity shine in the face of all this social distancing. The support you’re showing for our small businesses locally is incredible, and Kaylee + I are honored that you’re sharing what you’re up to with us as we go along each day.

Over the weekend, my husband + I enjoyed a bottle of Keel and Curley blueberry wine and had a James Bond movie marathon. Setting some quality time aside had me thinking about how important it is to nurture our relationships and still spend quality time with those we love — or could love. Here, I’m sharing three totally-planned-out date nights, quarantine notwithstanding. And remember, there’s no harm in getting dressed up. 👠

For couples, BFFs, or roommates

🍺 Pick up a case of your favorite brew from Craft + Kitchen or a growler from Swan Brewing.
🍕 Grab a couple of slices — or a whole pie — from Palace Pizza or Pizzeria Valdiano.
🧁 Take a treat (or two, or three) from La Imperial’s sweet selection.
🧺 Layout a blanket + your full spread on a nice patch of grass around Lake Mirror (6+ feet away from other people), and watch the sunset over Lakeland’s skyline.
🎧 If it feels right, turn the volume up on your favorite playlist and dance the night away.

For the fully-quarantined

🍷 Have a bottle of wine (or a case, we don’t judge) delivered from Ric’s Wine Market.
🥘 Order a meal kit for pick-up or delivery from The Joinery's vast take-out selection.
🤳 Video chat with your mom, your crush, your favorite colleague, or that new Bumble connection — so you can cook and eat together, but separately.
🎲 Play a game together, like virtual Scrabble or by reading out the question cards from We’re Not Really Strangers.

For you and your pet/coworker

🍣 Get some sushi + sake to-go from New Moon Sushi or Thai Oishi.
🧸 Pick up a special surprise for your furry friend at Benson’s Canine Cookies.
🌳 After sharing your meal (or treat), take an evening walk through the neighborhood or throw in some extra cuddles on the couch.
🎥 End the night by watching a movie together — we recommend The Secret Life of Pets 2

– LALtoday team (Abby + Kaylee)