Today I get the honor to celebrate with all of you, the loved ones in my life. This famous Hallmark Holiday (2^nd most flowers sold day, after Mother’s Day) is a time to show your love for someone special in your life or the lives around you. As a kid, we didn’t have girl friends yet, but we also were required to get the crayons or markers out and fold a piece of construction paper and drawer up a Valentines card for our mom. It was also a time to bring heart shaped candies to school and have a little party. The little chalk like heart candies with sayings on them were a lot of fun and caused much embarrassment if you got one that said, “I love you”. Such were those days as young and innocent kids.

Today, it can be a bit stressful. Planning a nice dinner (in or out), chocolate dipped strawberries (my wife’s favorite), Flowers (roses are the traditional choice) and some special gift that will mean something to that person. Plus of course the card that this holiday was invented for. Yes, it can get a bit pricey, but always seems to be worth it in the end.

I also think of friends and family that don’t have that special person to celebrate with. I know it can be a tough time and I try to reach out to say a quick hello to acknowledge the thought that they are not alone on this loving day. My wife always gets my son a card and some chocolate treat.

So, to all of you out there planning a romantic day or evening with your loved one, enjoy!

To all the others, keep your thoughts positive and celebrate this weekend when prices on a night out will be back to normal.