Valentine’s Day

Normally we don’t do much at our house for Valentine’s Day. In fact, Tom has been known to complain that there are entirely too many holidays between Christmas and Mother’s Day where he has to get me stuff (Anniversary & Birthday being the big ones). But this year he must have caught the romantic bug because he celebrated in a big way and started early. Before I go into the details, I want to share what I made for him this year (and I’m quite pleased with it if I do say so myself!)

I made this treat bouquet with Twinkies, Ding Dongs, and Hershey’s Nuggets (I think they were caramel or toffee). Since these are treats Tom really likes (as opposed to candy bars or fruit) I thought it was especially thoughtful (not to brag or anything)!!

But now on to the really important part of the post – Tom’s romantic celebration. First, he sent me flowers (as opposed to bringing them home from the grocery store). Grocery store flowers are beautiful – but there is something kind of magical about having them show up on your doorstep! He sent them early because I was heading to Utah on the 16th and he wanted me to enjoy them!

These flowers came with chocolate, bath salts, and a teddy bear that my kids have been hinting that they would really like to have. 10 days later the flowers are still beautiful and make me feel cheery.

The really cool gift came on the day itself. First, Tom made a delicious candle-lit dinner – steak and lobster, with raspberry cheesecake for dessert. And to provide atmosphere, he gave me a “mix tape” (that’s for all my friends who remember the days of cassette tapes). That was pretty great – but he made this book to go with that included all the lyrics and LINER NOTES telling me why he picked each song. Swoon!!

Here’s a little sample:
Brad Paisley – She’s Everything
(Who are you to me? You’re a curled up in bed reading on a Saturday. You’re a “let’s have ice cream for breakfast” if not, “how bout pizza?”. You’re a “hand me the wrench, so I can fix the faucet already”. You’re an organizer of all things everywhere at anytime (whether it needs it or not). Most of all I echo Mr. Paisley’s words, “You are everything to me!”)

How could I not melt?? In the middle of everyday life and all the aggravations and responsibilities, it felt wonderful to be cherished and noticed. I think I can go another 20 years now!! I love you too, sweetheart!