As seen from previous years, I am a big fan of Valentine's Day. In fact, it's my 2nd favorite holiday (Christmas still takes the cake on that). Why do I love such a day? As you role your eyes and feel a bitter distaste, please know it has nothing to do with having a Valentine. In short, my top 3 favorite reasons for this fabulous day are...
1) 20 years ago, I was in Bakersfield, CA, curled up on the couch, in Little Mermaid pajamas, watching Fantasia. Not even 4 years old, I was anxious and eager for a phone call that would change my life. Late in the evening, as roses bloomed and chocolates were devoured, a beautiful, brown eyed boy entered this world. King George, commonly know as Silas Nathaniel, graced us with his presence and I became a big sister. Since that day, every February 14th marked another year I was blessed to have such a character in my life. Tomahawks, Power Rangers, Star Wars and Guitars- the boy's interests ranged in topic but always cared for with extreme desire. Today, the King resides in the land of Ducks where every day I am more proud to be his sister. At the caboose of a big family, expectations run deep while responsibility lies thin. Torn between a rebellious teen and wise man, George has taken his college opportunity far beyond I ever could. I still remember that night he was born- so plump and frail and yet filled with endless potential.
2) Slight change of tone... but I am a sap for Valentine's memorabilia. In my room, I have candy boutiques, cards and letters just waiting to be delivered. It's like Christmas where I can't wait to sneak out and decorate the house so when everyone wakes up they are blessed with reds and pinks and simple shaped hearts. I even made homemade peanut butter cups (thanks Pinterest!) and decorated them with red sparkles. How can you not love the glorious ensemble of red, pink and white? And don't even get me started on the wonder of Conversation hearts...
3. Love. Hopeless Romantic. Yes, that is me. I grew up watching and daydreaming about the greatest love stories. Ranging from Father of the Bride, Serendipity, When Harry Met Sally, Beauty and the Beast and Love Actually to name a few, I have always known love comes in different shapes, sizes, colors and times. It's indescribable and the most comforting, blissful feeling in the world. I believe you should fall in love with as many things as you can (Gwyneth in Country Strong also agrees). I am in love with the seasons, the stars, the cool air and the warm, Friday nights and Sunday mornings, brunch and early supper, cuddling and swooning, independence and book stores, ice cream and eggplant, kisses and flowers. I am in love with my family and friends, the new and the old, the unforeseen and forgotten. I am madly, deeply in love with a boy who gives me full blown butterflies and wholehearted kisses. In the chaos of it all, I am in love with life. And so here's to a day to celebrate it all. A love for whatever you feel- whether it's a person, place or thing, and a day to embrace a feeling we are so unique to have.
