The Spirit of Valentine's Day

I like Valentine's Day.  It's a time when we're reminded to express to the person we love most how special they are to us.  For whatever reason it seems that women are usually on the receiving end for this occasion.

In looking up the history of Valentine's Day, there are several stories about its origin.  One is the story of St. Valentine of Rome, who in opposition to an edict that soldiers were not to marry, performed secret wedding ceremonies and ministered to Christians who were being persecuted.  Legend says that he healed the daughter of his jailer and before he was executed wrote a farewell letter to her which he signed, "Your Valentine".

That's not a very auspicious beginning for the holiday we celebrate today.  The morning shows are full of special gifts.  Restaurants are offering "romantic" menus.

This particular small town restaurant is offering complimentary champagne, fresh flowers, menu specials, and to top it off - violin music.

Other restaurants are offering special prices on selections for two to conclude with sharing dessert.

The local grocery store is advertising "heart shaped ribeye steaks".  (Nothing says love like a slab of meat in the shape of a heart.)

I'm sure that you are wondering how Bubba and I intend to celebrate Valentine's Day.  We're going to a movie, which if you know us you know that only happens about once a year.  Then we are going out to eat and I get to choose "even Olive Garden" I was told.  That, my friend, is a sacrificial offer in the true spirit of St. Valentine himself.  I'm looking forward to this even though I probably won't pick "even Olive Garden" because I have a little bit of the St. Valentine spirit myself.

Bubba and I have shared 48 Valentine's Days together.  Cards, candy, jewelry, roses, dinners, trips.  We've done it all, but I've discovered that it is the little every day things that express the spirit of Valentine's Day best.

• Making my coffee and bringing it to me (multiple times) every single day;
• Tucking the cover around my feet;
• Changing the towels without being asked;
• Keeping my favorite hibiscus alive;
• Warming up the car for me;
• Baking sweet potato pies;
• Cleaning out my car;
• Looking at furniture with me;
• Taking a book when we go shopping and telling me to take my time;
• Keeping my "electronic gadgets" plugged in and running;
• Taking my fish off the hook;
• Telling me I look "pretty" before we go out.

These are just a few of the little things that carry the spirit of Valentine's Day.  I hope he will always know that I love and appreciate him.  I also hope that I'm doing enough of the "little things" for him to make his life as special as he makes mine.  Happy Valentine's Day, Bubba!

For the tens of you who read this blog, "May the Valentine's Day spirit fill your heart with love and joy on this special day."