Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Of hearts and chocolate

Roses, hearts, chocolate ... I can just see some of you rolling your eyes as Valentine's Day comes around again.  I'm already bracing myself for the pity party of dateless people tomorrow.  But, it doesn't have to be that way!  When we were growing up my Mama was the absolute best at making each holiday special.  We would have corn beef and cabbage and Irish soda bread on St. Patty's Day, we would make beautiful fall decorations for Thanksgiving, we would have Easter Eggs filled with pieces of the real Easter story one to open each day leading up to Easter (such a a thorn, a piece of bread, and on Easter Sunday a stone to remember that Jesus rose from the dead) - and for Valentine's Day we would go all out with paper hearts, cookies and a very fun dinner.  I remember making folders to hang on our doors and then making personal cards for each of my six siblings and parents .. at dinner we would sit down to a decorated table and open our cards.  I don't ever remember a boyfriend or girlfriend being at this dinner.  Mom and Dad were always there with us not out on a date alone ... and we enjoyed every moment.  I know that Valentine's Day has romantic roots - but it can be so much more.  No, we shouldn't need a day to say I love you in creative ways .. but it's a good idea!  And most of all Valentine's Day should not be about me and what I wish I had - but about showing love to anyone around you - your parents, your kids, your siblings, your co-workers, your spouse, your friends.  I was 30 when I got married - so I know something about being "alone" on the most romantic day of the year.  I still believe that it doesn't have to be a major bummer for those who have no significant other.  Make it about others, not yourself.

My sweet Husband is working tomorrow night, just like he did last year.  I honestly don't think we've ever been on a Valentine's Date since we got married.  And the first ever year we dated we actually went on a double date with his parents... which was a lot of fun, but not totally romantic!  And it's totally ok.  Would I like to spend tomorrow alone with him all to myself going to a fun restaurant?  Definitely!  But I'm gonna make the most of what IS rather than complaining and wishing for what isn't.  I'm spending the evening with my sweet Grammie - and I am going to make her an amazing dinner and dessert and we are just going to do girly things - maybe I'll give her a pedicure and manicure.  I love my Grammie and it's a blessing to have this time to spend together. 

So I guess my point is - life is what it is, and even if this Valentine's Day isn't what you hoped it would be make it wonderful and take the opportunity to love on the people in your life in creative and self-less ways.