Happy Sweet Week - Gearing up for Valentine's Day

It takes some effort to dig out of the snow, if you haven't yet, and prepare for Valentine's Day. We actually have a few reasons why we celebrate. We've got young kids, birthdays and school parties this week, so you can understand our house is happy Heart Day is coming. I know others don't feel the same and that's fine for them, but try not to rain on our Valentine's Day parade. 

Here are a few things you might consider doing this week to make it more fun for everyone:

1. Share some chocolate. Who doesn't enjoy getting special treats every now and then? Besides, it has to last you until the furry guy comes in April. 

2. Share some wine with someone over 21, preferably your spouse, significant other, or a friend. 

3. Can't or don't drink? Try sparkling cider, it'll do the trick. 

4. Take a bath. Who gets to do this anymore? It's totally indulgent and really worth it to relax. Why not make it ultra luxurious? Light a couple candles and play some soft music while you soak. 

5. Make hot chocolate and throw in some marshmallow hearts. You can make your own with this recipe, I have no idea if they're good. I just thought they'd be cool to try. I'll be too busy with school party/birthday celebrating, so I'm trying the bagged stuff.

6. Enjoy a romantic getaway. Seriously. You can do it even this late in the game. Pick a spot and go. Too busy? Take five minutes one early morning and stare out at the quiet snow with a loved one. 

7. Send a selfie. Draw an 'I love you' sign. Hold it up. Snap a pic. Send it to your sweetie and see what happens. 

8. Hug or kiss somebody you love. 

9. Hug yourself. Do it. Then take a selfie and share it with all of us here. It'd be funny!

10. Smile. Share. Be Happy. Repeat.

Where is the Love?

Is anyone else tired of all Valentine’s Day bashing? After watching a recent Glee episode, it occurred to me that more people should speak up in favor of Valentine's Day.

If you’re one of the people who just don’t get it. Listen up.

Many of us understand what it’s like to be single, lonely or dumped. Some of us even know what it’s like to have these things happen on Valentine’s Day. Others may be cynical. But, is it really necessary to trash a holiday that’s fun for kids while you’re stocking up on candy kisses and conversation hearts? If I’m in the holiday aisle with my kid and you see me, feel free to continue berating said holiday to your cell-buddy a few aisles over so my child doesn’t have to hear it!

Come on, is it really so awful to have a day dedicated to love and the many ways people can express it?

Most of us pro-Valentine folks just want to have a little fun. It shouldn’t bother you that we enjoy exchanging valentines amongst ourselves. Maybe our kids give us a reason to plaster doilies and sparkles all over a billion pieces of paper or we just enjoy the mid-winter candy fix. But, if it’s so bad, don’t buy the cards or candy, don’t bother with it at all. Leave the fun stuff to the kids, lovers and romantics.

Sure, you're entitled to your opinion that Valentine’s Day was made up by greeting card or candy companies. My opinion is different. It’s wonderful that my daughter beams while making cookies shaped like smoochie lip kisses and sending valentines; can we just have our day?

Sometimes it can suck to be stuck without something to do when you feel pressured. Let me help take the pressure off – treat it like any other day! Do what you like, stay in, stay crabby, or do nothing. It’s not like it’s a national holiday or anyone is required to celebrate. If you don’t like it, don’t bother celebrating.

It is like most of life, it is what you make of it. This year, it would be nice to hear a little more love. I mean, don’t we have enough hate going around these days? You don’t have to embrace it; just let those of us who look forward to it enjoy it. I’ll cuddle my family and share all the frilly cards and candies I can, while I can. You can have your V-Day slam fest, just don’t do it in front of the kids, please.

Happy Valentine’s Day!