about yesterday

Those who know me well will attest to the fact that I've never been, nor am I now, a huge fan of "days" that Hallmark has created to get people to spend money on their sweeties. Oh, I understand that all, or at least mostly all of you out there roll your eyes when you hear this, or when you hear me go off on Hallmark holidays, or just at me in general. So I must put your rolling eyes to rest, at least on the topic of Valentine's day.

Some myths I would like to dispell:

• I am not against Hallmark. In fact, I like the store. Very much. A little too much, perhaps.
• I am not against having a sweetie. In fact, I have one. He's the sweetest ever.
• I am not against romance. I like it, a lot. I like smooshy gooshy cards, fun date nights, kisses under the mistletoe (which, by the way, we still have up in our house) and other creative measures by which one expresses affection.
• I am not against candy, flowers, pink, red, or even little hearts (although, all in moderation, of course)
• I am not harboring residual bitterness over previous Valentine's Day mishaps, mistakes, or misjudgements. I think that should about cover it.
• I am not against St. Valentine. (although, I do not ascribe to his theology) Apparently, he aided Christians and stood up for the right to marry, and performed secret marriages, under Roman Emporer Claudius II's crazy law that cancelled marriages and engagements so more men would sign up for the army. (This Claudius was pretty crazy)

Here is why I don't particularly care if I get, or do not get, a Valentine card from my sweetie or anyone else - or if we make, or do not make, February 14th a celebratory event. Are you ready for this?? I think a random bouquet, card, or other gesture, means even more on a day that the whole world wasn't reminding him that he loves me.

TA-DAH! that's it. So you see, it all boils down to my wish for surprises. (ok, and maybe my rebellion against commercializing love has a little tiny bit of something to do with it. But I'm not going to mention that here!) And I would never EVER say to my sweetie, "NO WAY we can't stop at Coldstone on the way home from church!!!! People might think we're celebrating Valentine's Day!!"

Which is why, when I close my eyes and think about it, I can still taste the delicious flavor of coffee ice cream mixed with chocolate shavings melting slowly in my mouth.

I hope you all had an excellent day, reveling in the perfect Love of God!