Andrea/Cara here, musing about traditions and how they evolve. This is, of course, the month of Love, with hearts, flowers, and chocolate—not to speak of a dizzying array of bling—filling the stores and airwaves in anticipation of Valentine’s Day. Now, I’ll confess right away that I’m rather curmudgeonly about this holiday. It’s always struck me as crassly commercial . . . I like to think Love doesn’t need to be scripted and that gifts should be personal and heartfelt—quirkily offbeat rather than perfectly polished.
I know, I know, as a romance writer, I should be embracing it. And at heart I am, as anything that encourages the expression of love and friendship is a Good Thing. However, the history nerd in me couldn’t help but be curious about the history behind the holiday. And in doing a little research, I discovered some interesting—at least they are to me—things. So allow me to share a few randomly-chosen Valentine’s Day tidbits.
There are three different Christian saints named Valentine. One legend says St. Valentine’s Day is named after an early priest, who defied the decree of Roman emperor Claudius II that forbade young men to marry. (He thought single men made better soldiers.) Valentine continued to perform marriages, for which he was put to death.
Another variation of the legend say that while Valentine was in prison, waiting for his execution, when he fell in love with the daughter of his jailer, and sent her love letters signed “from your Valentine.”
Others claim that the origin of Valentine’s Day lie in the Roman pagan fertility ritual of Lupercalia that took place every spring in February. Goats would be sacrificed, and young men would roam through the streets slapping young women with strips of the bloody hide—its touch was supposed to make them more fertile in the coming year.
During the Middle Ages, a common belief in England and France was that February 14th was the start of the mating season for birds—and thus the date became associated with the day of Love. Chaucer reinforced this idea in his writings—a quote from him reads: “For this was sent on Seynt Valentyne's day
/When every foul cometh ther to choose his mate."
The first Valentine poem is to have been written in 1415 by the Duc d’Orleans to his wife from the Tower of London, where he was imprisoned after his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. (It still exists and is in the British Library’s 
manuscript collection.)
In the 1840s, Esther Howland created the first mass-produced Valentine cards, complete with lace and ribbons, in America. Today, it’s estimated that over a billion cards are sent worldwide. (And in case you were wondering, over 110 million roses are purchased for Valentine’s Day.)
In the early 1860s, Richard Cadbury, who took over his father’s chocolate and cocoa business with his brother, had the inspired idea to package their fancy chocolate “assortments” in fancy decorative boxes. He was the first to create a heart-shaped box!
Okay, now that I’ve revealed my sentiments and regaled you with some “bon-bons” from history, let’s hear your thoughts about Valentine’s Day. Do you like the holiday? Do you send cards? What gift do you most like to receive? (Aside from chocolate, which I’m assuming is a given. I mean . . .who wouldn’t want chocolate. Even a curmudgeon like me!)
Great post! I didn’t know most of that.
Valentine’s Day seems to be HUGE in the US, but not so much elsewhere. As a young person in the (pre-internet!) early 1990s, I had American penpals who sent me things for the occasion. Here, though, it’s really not something we do.
I do NOT object to the holiday at all, and think it’s nice. However, it comes exactly one week after my birthday, so there’s just too much in one go. Also, we have two Christmases (both calendars), and two New Years, and then most birthdays in our family are in January and February. And then two Easters. There’s no time for Valentine’s Day on top of all that!
Great post! I didn’t know most of that.
Valentine’s Day seems to be HUGE in the US, but not so much elsewhere. As a young person in the (pre-internet!) early 1990s, I had American penpals who sent me things for the occasion. Here, though, it’s really not something we do.
I do NOT object to the holiday at all, and think it’s nice. However, it comes exactly one week after my birthday, so there’s just too much in one go. Also, we have two Christmases (both calendars), and two New Years, and then most birthdays in our family are in January and February. And then two Easters. There’s no time for Valentine’s Day on top of all that!
Great post! I didn’t know most of that.
Valentine’s Day seems to be HUGE in the US, but not so much elsewhere. As a young person in the (pre-internet!) early 1990s, I had American penpals who sent me things for the occasion. Here, though, it’s really not something we do.
I do NOT object to the holiday at all, and think it’s nice. However, it comes exactly one week after my birthday, so there’s just too much in one go. Also, we have two Christmases (both calendars), and two New Years, and then most birthdays in our family are in January and February. And then two Easters. There’s no time for Valentine’s Day on top of all that!
Great post! I didn’t know most of that.
Valentine’s Day seems to be HUGE in the US, but not so much elsewhere. As a young person in the (pre-internet!) early 1990s, I had American penpals who sent me things for the occasion. Here, though, it’s really not something we do.
I do NOT object to the holiday at all, and think it’s nice. However, it comes exactly one week after my birthday, so there’s just too much in one go. Also, we have two Christmases (both calendars), and two New Years, and then most birthdays in our family are in January and February. And then two Easters. There’s no time for Valentine’s Day on top of all that!
Great post! I didn’t know most of that.
Valentine’s Day seems to be HUGE in the US, but not so much elsewhere. As a young person in the (pre-internet!) early 1990s, I had American penpals who sent me things for the occasion. Here, though, it’s really not something we do.
I do NOT object to the holiday at all, and think it’s nice. However, it comes exactly one week after my birthday, so there’s just too much in one go. Also, we have two Christmases (both calendars), and two New Years, and then most birthdays in our family are in January and February. And then two Easters. There’s no time for Valentine’s Day on top of all that!
I have a fondness for this holiday, even when I don’t have a special Valentine. I remember, as a child in school, the fun of exchanging cards and little pieces of candy. But you are right, like every holiday nowadays, it has become way too commercialized.
As for gifts, I think going out to dinner is good. And flowers are always wonderful.
Thanks for an interesting post. The pictures are lovely, especially the hummingbirds.
I have a fondness for this holiday, even when I don’t have a special Valentine. I remember, as a child in school, the fun of exchanging cards and little pieces of candy. But you are right, like every holiday nowadays, it has become way too commercialized.
As for gifts, I think going out to dinner is good. And flowers are always wonderful.
Thanks for an interesting post. The pictures are lovely, especially the hummingbirds.
I have a fondness for this holiday, even when I don’t have a special Valentine. I remember, as a child in school, the fun of exchanging cards and little pieces of candy. But you are right, like every holiday nowadays, it has become way too commercialized.
As for gifts, I think going out to dinner is good. And flowers are always wonderful.
Thanks for an interesting post. The pictures are lovely, especially the hummingbirds.
I have a fondness for this holiday, even when I don’t have a special Valentine. I remember, as a child in school, the fun of exchanging cards and little pieces of candy. But you are right, like every holiday nowadays, it has become way too commercialized.
As for gifts, I think going out to dinner is good. And flowers are always wonderful.
Thanks for an interesting post. The pictures are lovely, especially the hummingbirds.
I have a fondness for this holiday, even when I don’t have a special Valentine. I remember, as a child in school, the fun of exchanging cards and little pieces of candy. But you are right, like every holiday nowadays, it has become way too commercialized.
As for gifts, I think going out to dinner is good. And flowers are always wonderful.
Thanks for an interesting post. The pictures are lovely, especially the hummingbirds.
I am blessed because every day is Valentine’s Day with my DH. I don’t think that remembrance on one day would make up for a general lack of attention or loving words and actions on every other day. (Even though I love bling!) If you’re buying jewelry, right before Christmas and Valentine’s is the worst time because they mark up everything to 2-3 times the usual cost.
I am blessed because every day is Valentine’s Day with my DH. I don’t think that remembrance on one day would make up for a general lack of attention or loving words and actions on every other day. (Even though I love bling!) If you’re buying jewelry, right before Christmas and Valentine’s is the worst time because they mark up everything to 2-3 times the usual cost.
I am blessed because every day is Valentine’s Day with my DH. I don’t think that remembrance on one day would make up for a general lack of attention or loving words and actions on every other day. (Even though I love bling!) If you’re buying jewelry, right before Christmas and Valentine’s is the worst time because they mark up everything to 2-3 times the usual cost.
I am blessed because every day is Valentine’s Day with my DH. I don’t think that remembrance on one day would make up for a general lack of attention or loving words and actions on every other day. (Even though I love bling!) If you’re buying jewelry, right before Christmas and Valentine’s is the worst time because they mark up everything to 2-3 times the usual cost.
I am blessed because every day is Valentine’s Day with my DH. I don’t think that remembrance on one day would make up for a general lack of attention or loving words and actions on every other day. (Even though I love bling!) If you’re buying jewelry, right before Christmas and Valentine’s is the worst time because they mark up everything to 2-3 times the usual cost.
“I like to think Love doesn’t need to be scripted and that gifts should be personal and heartfelt—quirkily offbeat rather than perfectly polished.”
I’m with you Andrea, though at the baker’s shop this morning when tempted with an array of heart shaped cakes and biscuits I succumbed … my better half has a weakness for ginger biscuits and I will do anything for one of her smiles!
I wonder whether there should be a valentine star constellation in the zodiac to remind us that love is truly universal?
“I like to think Love doesn’t need to be scripted and that gifts should be personal and heartfelt—quirkily offbeat rather than perfectly polished.”
I’m with you Andrea, though at the baker’s shop this morning when tempted with an array of heart shaped cakes and biscuits I succumbed … my better half has a weakness for ginger biscuits and I will do anything for one of her smiles!
I wonder whether there should be a valentine star constellation in the zodiac to remind us that love is truly universal?
“I like to think Love doesn’t need to be scripted and that gifts should be personal and heartfelt—quirkily offbeat rather than perfectly polished.”
I’m with you Andrea, though at the baker’s shop this morning when tempted with an array of heart shaped cakes and biscuits I succumbed … my better half has a weakness for ginger biscuits and I will do anything for one of her smiles!
I wonder whether there should be a valentine star constellation in the zodiac to remind us that love is truly universal?
“I like to think Love doesn’t need to be scripted and that gifts should be personal and heartfelt—quirkily offbeat rather than perfectly polished.”
I’m with you Andrea, though at the baker’s shop this morning when tempted with an array of heart shaped cakes and biscuits I succumbed … my better half has a weakness for ginger biscuits and I will do anything for one of her smiles!
I wonder whether there should be a valentine star constellation in the zodiac to remind us that love is truly universal?
“I like to think Love doesn’t need to be scripted and that gifts should be personal and heartfelt—quirkily offbeat rather than perfectly polished.”
I’m with you Andrea, though at the baker’s shop this morning when tempted with an array of heart shaped cakes and biscuits I succumbed … my better half has a weakness for ginger biscuits and I will do anything for one of her smiles!
I wonder whether there should be a valentine star constellation in the zodiac to remind us that love is truly universal?
Yes, Valentine’s Day is big here in the States—as in huely commercial. I agree the sentiment is nice, but like much we do here, it’s a little overhyped.
I love all your dual celebrations!(And BTW, a belated Happy Birthday!) Hey, it’s always nice to have a reason for chocolate!
Yes, Valentine’s Day is big here in the States—as in huely commercial. I agree the sentiment is nice, but like much we do here, it’s a little overhyped.
I love all your dual celebrations!(And BTW, a belated Happy Birthday!) Hey, it’s always nice to have a reason for chocolate!
Yes, Valentine’s Day is big here in the States—as in huely commercial. I agree the sentiment is nice, but like much we do here, it’s a little overhyped.
I love all your dual celebrations!(And BTW, a belated Happy Birthday!) Hey, it’s always nice to have a reason for chocolate!
Yes, Valentine’s Day is big here in the States—as in huely commercial. I agree the sentiment is nice, but like much we do here, it’s a little overhyped.
I love all your dual celebrations!(And BTW, a belated Happy Birthday!) Hey, it’s always nice to have a reason for chocolate!
Yes, Valentine’s Day is big here in the States—as in huely commercial. I agree the sentiment is nice, but like much we do here, it’s a little overhyped.
I love all your dual celebrations!(And BTW, a belated Happy Birthday!) Hey, it’s always nice to have a reason for chocolate!
Mary, I remember doing Valentines as a kid and that definitely was sweet. A nice dinner celebration is lovely, as are flowers. But I must say, I prefer a more creative bouquet, and not simply red roses.
Mary, I remember doing Valentines as a kid and that definitely was sweet. A nice dinner celebration is lovely, as are flowers. But I must say, I prefer a more creative bouquet, and not simply red roses.
Mary, I remember doing Valentines as a kid and that definitely was sweet. A nice dinner celebration is lovely, as are flowers. But I must say, I prefer a more creative bouquet, and not simply red roses.
Mary, I remember doing Valentines as a kid and that definitely was sweet. A nice dinner celebration is lovely, as are flowers. But I must say, I prefer a more creative bouquet, and not simply red roses.
Mary, I remember doing Valentines as a kid and that definitely was sweet. A nice dinner celebration is lovely, as are flowers. But I must say, I prefer a more creative bouquet, and not simply red roses.
Awww, what a lovely sentiment, Kathy! You truly are blessed.
Awww, what a lovely sentiment, Kathy! You truly are blessed.
Awww, what a lovely sentiment, Kathy! You truly are blessed.
Awww, what a lovely sentiment, Kathy! You truly are blessed.
Awww, what a lovely sentiment, Kathy! You truly are blessed.
Quantum, you’re a winner—I think she should keep you! (heart-shaped ginger biscuits definitely qualify as sweetly quirky.)
And love your idea of a Valentine constellation. Please send it on to one of your astrophysicist friends!
Quantum, you’re a winner—I think she should keep you! (heart-shaped ginger biscuits definitely qualify as sweetly quirky.)
And love your idea of a Valentine constellation. Please send it on to one of your astrophysicist friends!
Quantum, you’re a winner—I think she should keep you! (heart-shaped ginger biscuits definitely qualify as sweetly quirky.)
And love your idea of a Valentine constellation. Please send it on to one of your astrophysicist friends!
Quantum, you’re a winner—I think she should keep you! (heart-shaped ginger biscuits definitely qualify as sweetly quirky.)
And love your idea of a Valentine constellation. Please send it on to one of your astrophysicist friends!
Quantum, you’re a winner—I think she should keep you! (heart-shaped ginger biscuits definitely qualify as sweetly quirky.)
And love your idea of a Valentine constellation. Please send it on to one of your astrophysicist friends!
Being single, it’s more of an over hyped holiday that drives me crazy. However, I do like to give a little chocolate to my nieces and nephews…and to myself, of course. 🙂
Being single, it’s more of an over hyped holiday that drives me crazy. However, I do like to give a little chocolate to my nieces and nephews…and to myself, of course. 🙂
Being single, it’s more of an over hyped holiday that drives me crazy. However, I do like to give a little chocolate to my nieces and nephews…and to myself, of course. 🙂
Being single, it’s more of an over hyped holiday that drives me crazy. However, I do like to give a little chocolate to my nieces and nephews…and to myself, of course. 🙂
Being single, it’s more of an over hyped holiday that drives me crazy. However, I do like to give a little chocolate to my nieces and nephews…and to myself, of course. 🙂
Ha, ha! Yes, as far as I’m concerned, hype or not, any excuse to give (and receive) chocolate is a Good Thing!
Ha, ha! Yes, as far as I’m concerned, hype or not, any excuse to give (and receive) chocolate is a Good Thing!
Ha, ha! Yes, as far as I’m concerned, hype or not, any excuse to give (and receive) chocolate is a Good Thing!
Ha, ha! Yes, as far as I’m concerned, hype or not, any excuse to give (and receive) chocolate is a Good Thing!
Ha, ha! Yes, as far as I’m concerned, hype or not, any excuse to give (and receive) chocolate is a Good Thing!
I have fond memories of childhood celebrations. We’d decorate shoeboxes and exchange handmade Valentines cards with our classmates. As an adult, I don’t really celebrate. My late dh wasn’t fond of the “Hallmark Holidays,” as he called them, but he’d surprise me with sweet gifts on random days throughout the year so no complaints here. 🙂
I have fond memories of childhood celebrations. We’d decorate shoeboxes and exchange handmade Valentines cards with our classmates. As an adult, I don’t really celebrate. My late dh wasn’t fond of the “Hallmark Holidays,” as he called them, but he’d surprise me with sweet gifts on random days throughout the year so no complaints here. 🙂
I have fond memories of childhood celebrations. We’d decorate shoeboxes and exchange handmade Valentines cards with our classmates. As an adult, I don’t really celebrate. My late dh wasn’t fond of the “Hallmark Holidays,” as he called them, but he’d surprise me with sweet gifts on random days throughout the year so no complaints here. 🙂
I have fond memories of childhood celebrations. We’d decorate shoeboxes and exchange handmade Valentines cards with our classmates. As an adult, I don’t really celebrate. My late dh wasn’t fond of the “Hallmark Holidays,” as he called them, but he’d surprise me with sweet gifts on random days throughout the year so no complaints here. 🙂
I have fond memories of childhood celebrations. We’d decorate shoeboxes and exchange handmade Valentines cards with our classmates. As an adult, I don’t really celebrate. My late dh wasn’t fond of the “Hallmark Holidays,” as he called them, but he’d surprise me with sweet gifts on random days throughout the year so no complaints here. 🙂
February 14 the beginning of the mating season for birds? The things one learns here! I know people for whom Valentine’s day is a huge competitive thing where partners must Prove Themselves. Me, I think an excuse to go out to dinner or have flowers is nice, but I go no further than that!
February 14 the beginning of the mating season for birds? The things one learns here! I know people for whom Valentine’s day is a huge competitive thing where partners must Prove Themselves. Me, I think an excuse to go out to dinner or have flowers is nice, but I go no further than that!
February 14 the beginning of the mating season for birds? The things one learns here! I know people for whom Valentine’s day is a huge competitive thing where partners must Prove Themselves. Me, I think an excuse to go out to dinner or have flowers is nice, but I go no further than that!
February 14 the beginning of the mating season for birds? The things one learns here! I know people for whom Valentine’s day is a huge competitive thing where partners must Prove Themselves. Me, I think an excuse to go out to dinner or have flowers is nice, but I go no further than that!
February 14 the beginning of the mating season for birds? The things one learns here! I know people for whom Valentine’s day is a huge competitive thing where partners must Prove Themselves. Me, I think an excuse to go out to dinner or have flowers is nice, but I go no further than that!
I’ve always ranked Valentine’s Day up there with Mother’s Day and Father’s Day as Hallmark holidays, and we’ve never done anything much by way of celebration. Even so, I’ve always had a hankering for one of those big, splashy red satin heart boxes full of delicious chocolates.
(I never worry too much about consistency either.)
I’ve always ranked Valentine’s Day up there with Mother’s Day and Father’s Day as Hallmark holidays, and we’ve never done anything much by way of celebration. Even so, I’ve always had a hankering for one of those big, splashy red satin heart boxes full of delicious chocolates.
(I never worry too much about consistency either.)
I’ve always ranked Valentine’s Day up there with Mother’s Day and Father’s Day as Hallmark holidays, and we’ve never done anything much by way of celebration. Even so, I’ve always had a hankering for one of those big, splashy red satin heart boxes full of delicious chocolates.
(I never worry too much about consistency either.)
I’ve always ranked Valentine’s Day up there with Mother’s Day and Father’s Day as Hallmark holidays, and we’ve never done anything much by way of celebration. Even so, I’ve always had a hankering for one of those big, splashy red satin heart boxes full of delicious chocolates.
(I never worry too much about consistency either.)
I’ve always ranked Valentine’s Day up there with Mother’s Day and Father’s Day as Hallmark holidays, and we’ve never done anything much by way of celebration. Even so, I’ve always had a hankering for one of those big, splashy red satin heart boxes full of delicious chocolates.
(I never worry too much about consistency either.)
Yes, who would have guessed that birds and their mating habits figured into the Day of Love!
I’d much rather go out to a nice dinner any other night than Valentine’s Day.Less hoopla.
Yes, who would have guessed that birds and their mating habits figured into the Day of Love!
I’d much rather go out to a nice dinner any other night than Valentine’s Day.Less hoopla.
Yes, who would have guessed that birds and their mating habits figured into the Day of Love!
I’d much rather go out to a nice dinner any other night than Valentine’s Day.Less hoopla.
Yes, who would have guessed that birds and their mating habits figured into the Day of Love!
I’d much rather go out to a nice dinner any other night than Valentine’s Day.Less hoopla.
Yes, who would have guessed that birds and their mating habits figured into the Day of Love!
I’d much rather go out to a nice dinner any other night than Valentine’s Day.Less hoopla.
Ha, ha,. Lillian! I’m with you. A silly holiday, but hey, I’d take the chocolate, no questions asked!
Ha, ha,. Lillian! I’m with you. A silly holiday, but hey, I’d take the chocolate, no questions asked!
Ha, ha,. Lillian! I’m with you. A silly holiday, but hey, I’d take the chocolate, no questions asked!
Ha, ha,. Lillian! I’m with you. A silly holiday, but hey, I’d take the chocolate, no questions asked!
Ha, ha,. Lillian! I’m with you. A silly holiday, but hey, I’d take the chocolate, no questions asked!
Less sweetly, in north Texas and other points south, Valentine’s Day tends to match the mating season for — not birds, but SKUNKS. Apparently, the stinkiest emissions win …
Less sweetly, in north Texas and other points south, Valentine’s Day tends to match the mating season for — not birds, but SKUNKS. Apparently, the stinkiest emissions win …
Less sweetly, in north Texas and other points south, Valentine’s Day tends to match the mating season for — not birds, but SKUNKS. Apparently, the stinkiest emissions win …
Less sweetly, in north Texas and other points south, Valentine’s Day tends to match the mating season for — not birds, but SKUNKS. Apparently, the stinkiest emissions win …
Less sweetly, in north Texas and other points south, Valentine’s Day tends to match the mating season for — not birds, but SKUNKS. Apparently, the stinkiest emissions win …
SuePS, you win the prize! (A virtual box of chocolates, of course.) Thanks for the smile. So glad I read all the way to the end here.
SuePS, you win the prize! (A virtual box of chocolates, of course.) Thanks for the smile. So glad I read all the way to the end here.
SuePS, you win the prize! (A virtual box of chocolates, of course.) Thanks for the smile. So glad I read all the way to the end here.
SuePS, you win the prize! (A virtual box of chocolates, of course.) Thanks for the smile. So glad I read all the way to the end here.
SuePS, you win the prize! (A virtual box of chocolates, of course.) Thanks for the smile. So glad I read all the way to the end here.
I had pet skunks when I was a child. They were loving all the time. One of them loved my mother’s drapes until they went from floor length to window length. He also loved some of the living room furniture. Not spraying, chewing. But, he was no worse than my sister’s rabbit who loved my mother’s beside table until one of the legs was gone.
When I was in school, I always felt trepidation when the valentine cards were being passed around. I feared that I would get none or maybe only a few when everyone else got tons.
Although it may be a scripted holiday, I think it is a lovely idea. Anytime that love is being shared that is a good thing. I send cards to my adult children as well as my elderly relatives. Because being told you are loved is never a bad thing.
I had pet skunks when I was a child. They were loving all the time. One of them loved my mother’s drapes until they went from floor length to window length. He also loved some of the living room furniture. Not spraying, chewing. But, he was no worse than my sister’s rabbit who loved my mother’s beside table until one of the legs was gone.
When I was in school, I always felt trepidation when the valentine cards were being passed around. I feared that I would get none or maybe only a few when everyone else got tons.
Although it may be a scripted holiday, I think it is a lovely idea. Anytime that love is being shared that is a good thing. I send cards to my adult children as well as my elderly relatives. Because being told you are loved is never a bad thing.
I had pet skunks when I was a child. They were loving all the time. One of them loved my mother’s drapes until they went from floor length to window length. He also loved some of the living room furniture. Not spraying, chewing. But, he was no worse than my sister’s rabbit who loved my mother’s beside table until one of the legs was gone.
When I was in school, I always felt trepidation when the valentine cards were being passed around. I feared that I would get none or maybe only a few when everyone else got tons.
Although it may be a scripted holiday, I think it is a lovely idea. Anytime that love is being shared that is a good thing. I send cards to my adult children as well as my elderly relatives. Because being told you are loved is never a bad thing.
I had pet skunks when I was a child. They were loving all the time. One of them loved my mother’s drapes until they went from floor length to window length. He also loved some of the living room furniture. Not spraying, chewing. But, he was no worse than my sister’s rabbit who loved my mother’s beside table until one of the legs was gone.
When I was in school, I always felt trepidation when the valentine cards were being passed around. I feared that I would get none or maybe only a few when everyone else got tons.
Although it may be a scripted holiday, I think it is a lovely idea. Anytime that love is being shared that is a good thing. I send cards to my adult children as well as my elderly relatives. Because being told you are loved is never a bad thing.
I had pet skunks when I was a child. They were loving all the time. One of them loved my mother’s drapes until they went from floor length to window length. He also loved some of the living room furniture. Not spraying, chewing. But, he was no worse than my sister’s rabbit who loved my mother’s beside table until one of the legs was gone.
When I was in school, I always felt trepidation when the valentine cards were being passed around. I feared that I would get none or maybe only a few when everyone else got tons.
Although it may be a scripted holiday, I think it is a lovely idea. Anytime that love is being shared that is a good thing. I send cards to my adult children as well as my elderly relatives. Because being told you are loved is never a bad thing.
Yes, it is commercially motivated and yes, it is over priced especially hot house roses forced to bloom and yes, it seems unnecessary to choose one date to celebrate LOVE, but ultimately any day devoted to LOVE is better than no date. We need more LOVE in this world,so I think we ought to broaden our Valentine’s Day to encompass LOVE everywhere and to everyone.
With that I wish you all a happy day tomorrow with things you love and people you love and most of all lots of chocolate 😀
Yes, it is commercially motivated and yes, it is over priced especially hot house roses forced to bloom and yes, it seems unnecessary to choose one date to celebrate LOVE, but ultimately any day devoted to LOVE is better than no date. We need more LOVE in this world,so I think we ought to broaden our Valentine’s Day to encompass LOVE everywhere and to everyone.
With that I wish you all a happy day tomorrow with things you love and people you love and most of all lots of chocolate 😀
Yes, it is commercially motivated and yes, it is over priced especially hot house roses forced to bloom and yes, it seems unnecessary to choose one date to celebrate LOVE, but ultimately any day devoted to LOVE is better than no date. We need more LOVE in this world,so I think we ought to broaden our Valentine’s Day to encompass LOVE everywhere and to everyone.
With that I wish you all a happy day tomorrow with things you love and people you love and most of all lots of chocolate 😀
Yes, it is commercially motivated and yes, it is over priced especially hot house roses forced to bloom and yes, it seems unnecessary to choose one date to celebrate LOVE, but ultimately any day devoted to LOVE is better than no date. We need more LOVE in this world,so I think we ought to broaden our Valentine’s Day to encompass LOVE everywhere and to everyone.
With that I wish you all a happy day tomorrow with things you love and people you love and most of all lots of chocolate 😀
Yes, it is commercially motivated and yes, it is over priced especially hot house roses forced to bloom and yes, it seems unnecessary to choose one date to celebrate LOVE, but ultimately any day devoted to LOVE is better than no date. We need more LOVE in this world,so I think we ought to broaden our Valentine’s Day to encompass LOVE everywhere and to everyone.
With that I wish you all a happy day tomorrow with things you love and people you love and most of all lots of chocolate 😀
Oh, SuePS, I will make a note of that for future “random Valentine facts”! Apparently the sweet scent of chocolate doesn’t do much for north Texas!
Oh, SuePS, I will make a note of that for future “random Valentine facts”! Apparently the sweet scent of chocolate doesn’t do much for north Texas!
Oh, SuePS, I will make a note of that for future “random Valentine facts”! Apparently the sweet scent of chocolate doesn’t do much for north Texas!
Oh, SuePS, I will make a note of that for future “random Valentine facts”! Apparently the sweet scent of chocolate doesn’t do much for north Texas!
Oh, SuePS, I will make a note of that for future “random Valentine facts”! Apparently the sweet scent of chocolate doesn’t do much for north Texas!
Annette, I’ve heard skunks are quite smart!
And totally agree with you that being told you are loved—and telling it to others—is really important.
Annette, I’ve heard skunks are quite smart!
And totally agree with you that being told you are loved—and telling it to others—is really important.
Annette, I’ve heard skunks are quite smart!
And totally agree with you that being told you are loved—and telling it to others—is really important.
Annette, I’ve heard skunks are quite smart!
And totally agree with you that being told you are loved—and telling it to others—is really important.
Annette, I’ve heard skunks are quite smart!
And totally agree with you that being told you are loved—and telling it to others—is really important.
Well said, Janice! Thank you!
Well said, Janice! Thank you!
Well said, Janice! Thank you!
Well said, Janice! Thank you!
Well said, Janice! Thank you!
I always think of Valentines day as fun for the children.
This year I participated in a Facebook groups celebrated Heritage Recipes, and yesterday they suggested several food presentations you could do to brighten up valentines day. For example,muffins baked in a heart shape.
I think that valentines should consist of thinks like this. Just a small personal touch for special people.
I always think of Valentines day as fun for the children.
This year I participated in a Facebook groups celebrated Heritage Recipes, and yesterday they suggested several food presentations you could do to brighten up valentines day. For example,muffins baked in a heart shape.
I think that valentines should consist of thinks like this. Just a small personal touch for special people.
I always think of Valentines day as fun for the children.
This year I participated in a Facebook groups celebrated Heritage Recipes, and yesterday they suggested several food presentations you could do to brighten up valentines day. For example,muffins baked in a heart shape.
I think that valentines should consist of thinks like this. Just a small personal touch for special people.
I always think of Valentines day as fun for the children.
This year I participated in a Facebook groups celebrated Heritage Recipes, and yesterday they suggested several food presentations you could do to brighten up valentines day. For example,muffins baked in a heart shape.
I think that valentines should consist of thinks like this. Just a small personal touch for special people.
I always think of Valentines day as fun for the children.
This year I participated in a Facebook groups celebrated Heritage Recipes, and yesterday they suggested several food presentations you could do to brighten up valentines day. For example,muffins baked in a heart shape.
I think that valentines should consist of thinks like this. Just a small personal touch for special people.
I like it. I like all the pretty red displays of candy and tschotkes that I don’t buy. I like sending Valentine’s Day gifts to kids I know.
My own memories of Valentine’s Day are mixed. When I was in school, my friends and I were always in the group that gave out more Valentines than we received. I always wondered what it would be like to receive more cards than I gave.
Every boy I knew hated it. I think in general guys hate having emotion extorted from them and they look upon the day as that sort of thing, rather than a spontaneous sharing of friendship or love or joy. It’s why they aren’t crazy about birthdays, anniversaries or Christmases either.
At work we’d have some Valentine cookies or something, but I noticed that not many of the women (and none of the men) got flowers at work (so their friends could see them) or mentioned anything special at home – and I think they were disappointed, particularly the women.
It’s such a little thing to do, to make people feel happy for no reason. Sometimes it feels like there’s not much of that around anymore.
I like it. I like all the pretty red displays of candy and tschotkes that I don’t buy. I like sending Valentine’s Day gifts to kids I know.
My own memories of Valentine’s Day are mixed. When I was in school, my friends and I were always in the group that gave out more Valentines than we received. I always wondered what it would be like to receive more cards than I gave.
Every boy I knew hated it. I think in general guys hate having emotion extorted from them and they look upon the day as that sort of thing, rather than a spontaneous sharing of friendship or love or joy. It’s why they aren’t crazy about birthdays, anniversaries or Christmases either.
At work we’d have some Valentine cookies or something, but I noticed that not many of the women (and none of the men) got flowers at work (so their friends could see them) or mentioned anything special at home – and I think they were disappointed, particularly the women.
It’s such a little thing to do, to make people feel happy for no reason. Sometimes it feels like there’s not much of that around anymore.
I like it. I like all the pretty red displays of candy and tschotkes that I don’t buy. I like sending Valentine’s Day gifts to kids I know.
My own memories of Valentine’s Day are mixed. When I was in school, my friends and I were always in the group that gave out more Valentines than we received. I always wondered what it would be like to receive more cards than I gave.
Every boy I knew hated it. I think in general guys hate having emotion extorted from them and they look upon the day as that sort of thing, rather than a spontaneous sharing of friendship or love or joy. It’s why they aren’t crazy about birthdays, anniversaries or Christmases either.
At work we’d have some Valentine cookies or something, but I noticed that not many of the women (and none of the men) got flowers at work (so their friends could see them) or mentioned anything special at home – and I think they were disappointed, particularly the women.
It’s such a little thing to do, to make people feel happy for no reason. Sometimes it feels like there’s not much of that around anymore.
I like it. I like all the pretty red displays of candy and tschotkes that I don’t buy. I like sending Valentine’s Day gifts to kids I know.
My own memories of Valentine’s Day are mixed. When I was in school, my friends and I were always in the group that gave out more Valentines than we received. I always wondered what it would be like to receive more cards than I gave.
Every boy I knew hated it. I think in general guys hate having emotion extorted from them and they look upon the day as that sort of thing, rather than a spontaneous sharing of friendship or love or joy. It’s why they aren’t crazy about birthdays, anniversaries or Christmases either.
At work we’d have some Valentine cookies or something, but I noticed that not many of the women (and none of the men) got flowers at work (so their friends could see them) or mentioned anything special at home – and I think they were disappointed, particularly the women.
It’s such a little thing to do, to make people feel happy for no reason. Sometimes it feels like there’s not much of that around anymore.
I like it. I like all the pretty red displays of candy and tschotkes that I don’t buy. I like sending Valentine’s Day gifts to kids I know.
My own memories of Valentine’s Day are mixed. When I was in school, my friends and I were always in the group that gave out more Valentines than we received. I always wondered what it would be like to receive more cards than I gave.
Every boy I knew hated it. I think in general guys hate having emotion extorted from them and they look upon the day as that sort of thing, rather than a spontaneous sharing of friendship or love or joy. It’s why they aren’t crazy about birthdays, anniversaries or Christmases either.
At work we’d have some Valentine cookies or something, but I noticed that not many of the women (and none of the men) got flowers at work (so their friends could see them) or mentioned anything special at home – and I think they were disappointed, particularly the women.
It’s such a little thing to do, to make people feel happy for no reason. Sometimes it feels like there’s not much of that around anymore.
Thanks for an informative post, Andrea/Cara. I’m all for chocolate on any occasion. We sent our adult daughter a card for Valentine’s Day as well as small box of goodies (prominently featuring chocolate); for the latter, we used iHerb.com as our daughter lives in South Korea and their shipping is very VERY low. I have a few items (and not all of them chocolate) to give to my husband tomorrow along with a card. And my husband bought tickets to an upcoming production that we’re both looking forward to seeing; I feel fortunate.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you all.
Thanks for an informative post, Andrea/Cara. I’m all for chocolate on any occasion. We sent our adult daughter a card for Valentine’s Day as well as small box of goodies (prominently featuring chocolate); for the latter, we used iHerb.com as our daughter lives in South Korea and their shipping is very VERY low. I have a few items (and not all of them chocolate) to give to my husband tomorrow along with a card. And my husband bought tickets to an upcoming production that we’re both looking forward to seeing; I feel fortunate.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you all.
Thanks for an informative post, Andrea/Cara. I’m all for chocolate on any occasion. We sent our adult daughter a card for Valentine’s Day as well as small box of goodies (prominently featuring chocolate); for the latter, we used iHerb.com as our daughter lives in South Korea and their shipping is very VERY low. I have a few items (and not all of them chocolate) to give to my husband tomorrow along with a card. And my husband bought tickets to an upcoming production that we’re both looking forward to seeing; I feel fortunate.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you all.
Thanks for an informative post, Andrea/Cara. I’m all for chocolate on any occasion. We sent our adult daughter a card for Valentine’s Day as well as small box of goodies (prominently featuring chocolate); for the latter, we used iHerb.com as our daughter lives in South Korea and their shipping is very VERY low. I have a few items (and not all of them chocolate) to give to my husband tomorrow along with a card. And my husband bought tickets to an upcoming production that we’re both looking forward to seeing; I feel fortunate.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you all.
Thanks for an informative post, Andrea/Cara. I’m all for chocolate on any occasion. We sent our adult daughter a card for Valentine’s Day as well as small box of goodies (prominently featuring chocolate); for the latter, we used iHerb.com as our daughter lives in South Korea and their shipping is very VERY low. I have a few items (and not all of them chocolate) to give to my husband tomorrow along with a card. And my husband bought tickets to an upcoming production that we’re both looking forward to seeing; I feel fortunate.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you all.
Do what I do, Lillian, and buy yourself the satin heart chocolates on sale the day after Valentine’s Day!
Do what I do, Lillian, and buy yourself the satin heart chocolates on sale the day after Valentine’s Day!
Do what I do, Lillian, and buy yourself the satin heart chocolates on sale the day after Valentine’s Day!
Do what I do, Lillian, and buy yourself the satin heart chocolates on sale the day after Valentine’s Day!
Do what I do, Lillian, and buy yourself the satin heart chocolates on sale the day after Valentine’s Day!
I so totally agree, Sue. Homemade things, or something that has personal meaning capture the true spirit of the day. (The muffins sound lovely!)
I so totally agree, Sue. Homemade things, or something that has personal meaning capture the true spirit of the day. (The muffins sound lovely!)
I so totally agree, Sue. Homemade things, or something that has personal meaning capture the true spirit of the day. (The muffins sound lovely!)
I so totally agree, Sue. Homemade things, or something that has personal meaning capture the true spirit of the day. (The muffins sound lovely!)
I so totally agree, Sue. Homemade things, or something that has personal meaning capture the true spirit of the day. (The muffins sound lovely!)
The little unexpected gestures of caring are really the most meaningful, aren’t they. We should all be more mindful of doing them—you’re so right that it makes people happy. And that’s a lovely thing.
The little unexpected gestures of caring are really the most meaningful, aren’t they. We should all be more mindful of doing them—you’re so right that it makes people happy. And that’s a lovely thing.
The little unexpected gestures of caring are really the most meaningful, aren’t they. We should all be more mindful of doing them—you’re so right that it makes people happy. And that’s a lovely thing.
The little unexpected gestures of caring are really the most meaningful, aren’t they. We should all be more mindful of doing them—you’re so right that it makes people happy. And that’s a lovely thing.
The little unexpected gestures of caring are really the most meaningful, aren’t they. We should all be more mindful of doing them—you’re so right that it makes people happy. And that’s a lovely thing.
That all sounds wonderful, Kareni!
Happy Valentine’s Day to you too!
That all sounds wonderful, Kareni!
Happy Valentine’s Day to you too!
That all sounds wonderful, Kareni!
Happy Valentine’s Day to you too!
That all sounds wonderful, Kareni!
Happy Valentine’s Day to you too!
That all sounds wonderful, Kareni!
Happy Valentine’s Day to you too!
I’m not much for emotion on demand either. St Valentine’s Day was particularly darkened for me when I read about the massacre of Protestant Huguenots by Catholics, reinstating religious wars in 16th Century France, and mistakenly thought it was on Valentine’s Day rather than St Bartholmew’s Day in August.
I’m not much for emotion on demand either. St Valentine’s Day was particularly darkened for me when I read about the massacre of Protestant Huguenots by Catholics, reinstating religious wars in 16th Century France, and mistakenly thought it was on Valentine’s Day rather than St Bartholmew’s Day in August.
I’m not much for emotion on demand either. St Valentine’s Day was particularly darkened for me when I read about the massacre of Protestant Huguenots by Catholics, reinstating religious wars in 16th Century France, and mistakenly thought it was on Valentine’s Day rather than St Bartholmew’s Day in August.
I’m not much for emotion on demand either. St Valentine’s Day was particularly darkened for me when I read about the massacre of Protestant Huguenots by Catholics, reinstating religious wars in 16th Century France, and mistakenly thought it was on Valentine’s Day rather than St Bartholmew’s Day in August.
I’m not much for emotion on demand either. St Valentine’s Day was particularly darkened for me when I read about the massacre of Protestant Huguenots by Catholics, reinstating religious wars in 16th Century France, and mistakenly thought it was on Valentine’s Day rather than St Bartholmew’s Day in August.