February the 14th is almost here. And not soon enough if you ask me. We all need a little extra love now, don’t you think?  Even all the haters out there could probably use some too.

Valentine’s Day is just one of those holidays that you can work with and take in so many positive directions. Whether you just give a card or small gift, or take that special person out to dinner, it proves to be a mood lifter. And you don’t have to be connected to anyone in particular. Extend the invite to a friend who has been kind to you in the past. It’s a day to be nice to someone.  And we didn’t have to invent it. It’s already here.

Back in the day in elementary school, we took paper lunch bags, decorated them and hung them up around our classroom. The teacher would then make time for everyone to give out their little cards and put them in other kids bags. Afterward, we would all have some snacks to celebrate. There was nothing PC about it. Just little kids enjoying Valentine’s Day.

I am not sure what they do today, but something tells me it’s not the same. Those memories of my childhood are special. I recall making hand-made cards for my mom. My daughter did the same for me. Pretty sure I still have them too.

Through the years my husband has showered me with different gifts. From beautiful jewelry to stuffed talking animals, it has never been boring. However, this year a card will be just fine. He shows his love to me in different ways all year-long. Valentine’s Day is like a reinforcement of what we know we already have. That is what is so special about the day.

Let’s face it though. There will be those sour pusses out there who scream and yell how commercialized it has become. Sure, what holiday hasn’t gone in that direction. But I can forgive Valentine’s Day for doing it. It is not defaming a religion or dishonoring servicemen. It is meant to be a fun day for those who want to celebrate it. And if you don’t want to acknowledge it, then don’t!  My own son, who I love more than life, and who can be a bit opinionated at times, even asked his fiance to marry him last year on Valentine’s Day in Times Square in New York City. How romantic and fun is that!

So, for whatever you plan to do on Valentine’s Day, whether it be staying in or going out, just enjoy the moment. Unwind with a glass of your favorite drink, eat a couple of those expensive chocolates, and smell those beautiful flowers.  We all deserve a day to forget about the crap going on around us. Indeed!