Happy Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day!  I hope everyone enjoyed Tara's post yesterday.  Hopefully, she will be back in the future.

So, how are you celebrating the day of love?  Or are you an anti- valentine?

I think Valentine's Day is fun, but the expectations for some can be a bit overwhelming.  Yes, we should appreciate our loved ones every day but, sometimes it's nice to have a reminder.  That said, I do not think every couple needs spend $200 on a dinner (on the most crowded night for restaurants) and stand in line at the florist for an overpriced rose.  To each his own, but I think simple is best.

I started my V Day by showing love to myself.  An early 4 mile run and a quick workout started my day. I then shared some love with a few co-worker/friends that help the days be easier in the form of plastic roses.  Hey, it's the thought  that counts, right?  I also sent the kids to school with little "Be Mine" cards and lollipops.  Nothing says Valentine's Day like giving a bunch of sugar to kids.  My only hope is that they are coming down from the sugar high by the time they get home.

I'll likely have a normal evening with homework, dinner and maybe some DVR catch up, then I can lay with hubby and just be grateful that we are all together.  That is a gift to me.  There are many people who are separated from their loved ones.  My worst Valentine's Day ever was 2003.  My husband sent me two dozen roses ... while active in Kuwait.

Hubby posing for a picture after ordering me roses. <3

This year, I could have been alone had Sandy not spared hubby's life, others were not so lucky. So when I think about my friend Jess whose boyfriend is currently deployed and the Filipowicz family, who lost a father and son just around the corner from my home in Hurricane Sandy.  I don't need roses or chocolate to celebrate.

Although, I will take a date night - on any other night of the year.

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you.  I hope you can celebrate the love in your life.

xox
Jen