how do I love thee...

Love doesn't make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.
Franklin P. Jones

It is February 14, Valentine's Day. For some people the day is all about roses and candy. But, for others, it is just another "Hallmark" holiday..one that card companies just gobble up. My thoughts on the day fall somewhere between in a subtle mix of the two. I have heard that the oldest recorded greeting card is from the 1400's... a paper Valentine. Still to this day, 2011, it is a favorite for me in this household!

Just this morning my eleven year old son came up to me in the kitchen. He threw a colored heart folded in half on the counter where I was standing. He quickly started to walk away. No words spoken. I immediately opened the heart to find a beautifully decorated Valentine! Inside in neatly handwritten letters read, "Happy Valentine's Day. Have a great day. Love, Andriejus" I made a huge fuss: ran up to him and gave him a giant hug and kiss. I gushed about how beautiful it was, as he gave me a half-worked smile, knowing he felt pleased and appreciated. That handmade card was a special thing for me. They always have been and they always will!

My youngest two daughters had already given me their Valentines. We were recently at a restaurant eating when a nice, older lady approached our table. She invited the girls up to a table she had set up with all sorts of papers, stickers, and other various crafty do-dads. She told the girls they can each make their mother a special Valentine. They, of course, jumped at this! In a few minutes time I was presented, table-side, with two very beautiful crafted Valentines. Similar, yet very different with each girls own personal style. The Valentine's featured colorful papers, doilies, and a center-piece made from gluing down a foil-wrapped chocolate heart. Both girls were so proud as they presented me with their masterpieces! I got a bit teary-eyed as I saw the love that was poured onto those paper hearts. I began to think ahead to those days when my kids will no longer be kids. The paper Valentine's will come fewer and farther between. I relish in these years while I can. They are special times and I will always treasure these little handmade love notes, forever.