2nd Favorite Holiday

I was really into VALENTINE'S DAY this year- way more than usual. I think it is because it was on a Saturday, so we a had a whole day to celebrate.

On Valentine's Eve I stayed up until 3:00 making doily envelopes and other heart shaped things. My supplies were meager- construction paper (that I actually borrowed from a friend) markers, and red lipstick.

I placed love notes all around the apartment for David saying things I love about him. For example, there was a valentine in the fridge saying I love his cooking, one in a drawer stating I love his clothing, one on his surfboard, lipstick note on the mirror, etc. Everything was totally cheesy, but that is what Valetine's Day is all about, right? I also placed random things on our ironing board (we have limited counter or table space!) that said things such as "We make a great pear," along with a pear which added to the cheesiness of everything. I had seen a heart shaped sugar cookie at a bakery that said, "Spank Me" and it was so funny to me. So, with my construction paper conversation hearts I, of course, had to write that. Another favorite saying on the hearts was #1 lover. (from a movie, but doubt anyone will get it... maybe Chelsea Goodman... she is the BEST at movie quotes).

Last year David did breakfast and I did dinner, so this year we switched. I had a gift certificate to a cute little cafe called Icoa, but it was made out specifically for a Sunday brunch visit. With help from a former visiting teaching partner  (the sweetest girl I know) who works at Icoa, I was able to switch the gift certificate to use on any day of the week. The second part of the breakfast agenda was a walk on the beach.

Since the weather was so nice on our walk, we decided to go to Rum Point where we lounged and read for a few hours. Every time we do that I forget all my worries and totally get in the Caribbean mood.

After the beach we did some cleaning for guests we were receiving later that evening. Corporate guys from Del Sol were in town and one of the couples stayed with us Saturday night, so we hurried to get our place spick and span. I had Pride and Prejudice playing in the background and have decided that it is my most favorite movie. I am also loving the book and wish I read it before the movie years ago.

That evening David made a most delicious meal for me. I wasn't allowed in the kitchen, so I stayed in the bedroom watching the Notebook, making Valentine's for the primary children, and writing in my journal. One reason why Valentine's Day is my second favorite holiday is because of being able to allow myself to watch three chick flicks in one day. David brought me a crab and shrimp salad appetizer that was served in an avocado shell- he is so cute. Then came the filet mignon, waldorf salad, steamed broccoli, bacon wrapped shrimp, and my personal favorite, heart shaped potatoes. It was so delicious and so thoughtful. He ordered creme brule to go and we fell asleep watching Sabrina- the old one with Audry Hepburn. (our guests came after dinner and left the next day)

Today I delivered some treats to a few more people that I love. I made chocolate covered strawberries and mini red velvet cupcakes. I used old white boxes from Del Sol nail polish and red hots as cushion for the cupcakes. After assembling my doily envelopes with the treat boxes I was in no mood to drive them around this afternoon. So, those who live near me were the ones who got valentines. The rest will have to wait for Easter treats (ideas, anyone?).

I love hearts, I love chocolate, I love chick flicks, I love red, I love doilies, I love candle lit dinners, I love surprises, I love love notes, I love romance, I love traditions, I love celebrating love, I love my husband, and these are reasons why I LOVE Valentine's Day.