Happy Valentine's Day???

Did you know that today is Valentine's Day? You should unless you live in a cave on some remote island in the Pacific. There is not a store around that doesn't have an enormous section of Valentine's candy, cards, stuffed animals, and even more candy. And don't even get me started on the overpriced flowers that every florist in town and on the internet is trying to hawk.

It's not that I don't like telling those I love that I love them. I just want to do it on my own terms. Not with some overpriced box of candy. And flowers, yes I love them. But it kind of takes away from the enjoyment knowing that my husband paid way too much money for flowers that within hours of arrival will be drooping slowly toward the ground.

My biggest gripe is why do we have to have ONE day a year where we tell those we love that we love them? Come on, shouldn't we do that on a daily basis? Shouldn't we celebrate love all the time? Not just on the one day that is overhyped by commercialism.

Now I am going to step off of my soapbox and tell you what I think love is about (if you care). Aside from the obvious things I love such as my family and friends, love to me is:

• the sound of Holden's laughter
• the ticking of Sullivan's toenails on the floor as he runs to greet me
• the hugs Haley gives every night before she goes to bed
• the snuggles I get from Harrison every morning
• the unexpected surprise from my husband just because he thought I might like it
• the calls from my mom and dad just to see what I am doing

See to me love isn't about buying something for someone it's about giving something from the heart. It's about the unexpected gifts such as a hug from your child when you've had a bad day. Or a wet sloppy kiss from your 8 year old when you come to school to eat lunch with him. It's about sharing quiet time with your spouse after a long day. It's about celebrating life and all the good things every day, not just today.

So I hope that you celebrate love today, tomorrow and everyday. And as a wise man once said, “Love grows by giving. The love we give away is the only love we keep."