Be my Valentine, please

Months ago, when I was first asked to write this column, I made a list of holidays and events to write about, and the foods that would be fun, interesting, maybe traditional or unexpected. Oops! Super Bowl Sunday was on my list, but, I admit, I forgot. I never developed a strong affinity for football. Maybe, it’s a result of six years playing flute in marching bands, while the worst teams ran back and forth across the field. This year I did watch the game with friends, while feasting on a variety of soups, snacks and of course, great desserts. I could be converted to a football fan just for the food, and of course the commercials.

Next up, Valentine’s Day. My valentine (Daniel), is still in Los Angeles, although he will be here soon, so I decided I deserve to be my own valentine this year. I have an appointment that day, for a facial, and hair cut at Blush Salon. Maybe because Brooke knows her haircuts make me look good, she has invited me to join her and her husband at their table at the Valentine’s dinner at Town Hall. Also, because like most Waitsburgundians, she is a kind and thoughtful person.

Valentine’s Day is a tough holiday for me. It brings back some embarrassing memories. In elementary school, I remember fighting with my parents, because I only wanted to give certain classmates cards. My parents dictate was: all classmates or none! Typical of me, I rebelliously refused to give any cards, and was totally humiliated and embarrassed when I received cards from every classmate. I drowned my embarrassment in candy hearts, which made me sick as a dog. Lesson learned!

As a pre-teen, this holiday was all about having a “boyfriend,” even if it was just for the day. Another disappointing holiday romance was cleverly orchestrated by my parents. As I was plotting my strategy to choose a boyfriend for the school dance, my parents made arrangements for us all to have dinner with my grandparents that evening. They didn’t even have chocolate or candy hearts for me to drown my sorrows in.

Teenage years didn’t get much better. I got invited to the dance, this time my parents bought me a new dress, my first pair of “high heels” about 1” high, and my first pair of nylons. I wore this regalia with the grace and elegance of a princess. The only rule they set was to call them if I was going to a friend’s house after the dance. I didn’t call, and for that I paid the price. My punishment: my parents took away the high heels and nylons, with the statement that obviously I wasn’t mature or adult enough to deserve the accoutrements of a grown-up.

As an adult, I fell prey to the hype. I planned the romantic dinners, bought the cards, and waited for the flowers (sometimes in vain). The champagne, filet mignon, and cards are lovely. But, as I have discovered, gentility, kindness and romance should not be relegated to just one day. It’s great to plan a romantic dinner with your spouse or loved one (hopefully the same person,) it’s even better to share that dinner with grandparents, children, friends or someone who just needs a boost.

The best Valentine’s Day gift I can think of is your presence and time. Whether you spend Valentine’s day with loved ones, friends or even a stranger that needs a boost, make it a good day. And of course, candy hearts and chocolate should be added to any celebration you choose.