Why I Love Valentine's Day

Image from Valentine Clipart

I have seen a lot of bah-humbug in regards to Valentine's Day recently. Some of it is in jest, but others are truly and sincerely anti-. I agree, "Hallmark" holidays can be really annoying, where suddenly simple nice gestures must be grandiose and over commercialized. Do I need a dozen roses from my husband to symbolize his love for me? No. Are they nice, well yes. And if you do get roses every Valentine's Day, more power to you. I did get roses a lot during the early years of marriage. I'm not saying that over time romantic gestures become any less special, or that I deserve less but I guess as a couple we have become more practical. I don't really want Chip to spend the money on roses. But, I do know that if I really wanted them or expected them he would totally get them for me.

This morning, it was all about the kids. I got them each a Star Wars action figure/battle game (under $10) and a little box of candy (under $5). They didn't get a card from us, well because in all honesty they don't give a hoot about cards. I was going to make them heart shaped pancakes but we spent so much time ooh-ing and aah-ing over their their little presents that they were behind in getting ready for school so we nixed that and I let them have a piece of chocolate with their breakfast. There are so many things that Monkey asks for now, because he sees stuff on TV - that evil box in our living room that is constantly marketing things to him, heh heh. We are always telling him that maybe he can get it when he achieves x,y, and z so that gives him something to work toward and not just automatically buy him what he wants. He was SO enthused this morning at the thought of just getting a surprise gift, for no reason other than we love him. He kept saying, "Thank you!" over and over. Too cute. Buddha of course is still in his own little world and loved his Yoda, but honestly was more interested in his piece of chocolate and his morning milk.

Chip and I exchanged cards, and we have plans to go to a nice dinner tonight. I don't have any problem with celebrating "us", I am always looking for excuses to celebrate just about anything...I've always been that way. I don't want to get gauged on an over-priced, crowded restaurant with crappy service on Valentine's Day. There have been many times we have stayed home and made lobster and steaks at home and had champagne for a fraction of restaurant cost (and yeah, we had to cook and clean up after too, but that's besides the point). But our lovely little town has a new French restaurant we are excited to try. And nothing here is ever crowded or over-priced. I feel really fortunate, because I'm not in any mood these days to travel to the "city" when I have to commute in for work every day.

So I get that people think Valentine's Day is lame, but to each his own. I will take advantage of any opportunity to celebrate love with my three dudes. I've even got my Pinterest board ready to go with ideas for next year. Hope you all have a lovely day, whether you are celebrating or not.

With hugs and love!

Do you celebrate Valentine's Day? Do you enjoy the traditional heart-shaped candy box and roses or are you a little more casual with your gifts?