Even though we celebrate Thanksgiving once a year, we live a better life if we practice gratitude every day. Valentine’s Day comes once a year, and likewise, if we practice love everyday, our lives become richer.
One simple day dedicated to love can be a reminder of the people we love, and how we want to treat them every day, instead of a crazy, balloon filled, flower exploding, chocolate frenzy.
I know some say that Valentine’s Day is a Hallmark holiday, but I still like it. You do not need to spend money to be a happy Valentine. Once I understood that, and stopped shopping for heart shaped stuff, I loved this special day even more.
There are things about each holiday that we love and don’t love, and I thought I would share my list about today’s holiday.
I love you
- Extra kisses and adoring glances.
- Giving more thought to how and who I love.
- Home cooked meal. Best made with butter and love according to My Swedish Mother in law.
- Love songs.
- A day dedicated to love more deeply.
- Special elementary school mailboxes
- Wearing red. Even though there is no red in my tiny wardrobe, I appreciate when you show a little Valentine’s spirit, and slip on a little crimson.
- Hand written love notes.
- A love story.
- Chocolate. Dark and spicy.
- Wine. Dark and spicy.
I love you not
- Greeting cards that cost $4.95 or more.
- Anything in a red heart shaped cardboard box.
- Complaints about V-Day when not in a relationship. There is more than one love in your life.
- Heart shaped trinkets to display.
- A day dedicated to shopping.
- Decorations. Christmas, yes. Valentines day, no.
- Overpriced dinner out.
- Milk Chocolate.
- Fruity Wine.
Last year, my husband made me a CD with songs that make him think of me. It was moving to see myself through his eyes. That simple gift continues to make me smile, a year later. This is a perfect day to demonstrate a be more with less mentality.
More love, less stuff.
Happy Valentines Day. I love you.
