2.10.2010

valentine's day...

It means different things to different people. My husband and I don’t go all out for what we call the “Hallmark” holidays. I do little things here and there (heart shaped pancakes and a homemade card etc. etc.). This year I think we’re going out to a swanky breakfast (my favorite meal).

For the past 23 years, Valentine's Day has been “the day after”.

Usually, February 13th is a day marked with balloons and pink Gerber Daisies (her favorite). There are usually presents and a fancy dinner (her favorite meal) and lots of pink (her favorite color). We used to do these things with her on the day before Valentine's Day because she used to live in Phoenix.

I first met her twenty four years ago on February 13th. Way back in 1986, while the rest of the world was waiting for (or dreading) Valentine's Day, I was being introduced to the person who changed my life forever. She was born on a Thursday at 10:02 in the morning and, at first glance, I was slightly afraid of her. She grew on me.  Yes, that she did.

This will be the first time we will not be together to celebrate this momentous event. My daughter now lives in Seattle. This being apart, forces me to start reminding myself how lucky I am to know her and how lucky I am she is healthy and happy. I am forced to do this because not being with her this year feels, I don’t know……….not good. I prefer to focus on the good so that’s what I will do this year.

Do you have a favorite (or funny) Valentine's Day memory?

8 comments:

KR said...

I am sad for you..... I'm sure she is also thinking about not being together for the first time for her birthday.....but as you say as long as she is healthy and happy!

KR said...

Forgot to mention......that beakfast looks yummy, you are so creative!!!

Tinely said...

I don't have a favorite or funny valentines day memory, but I do have a funny Mother day memory. Too long to include here though. :-)

sunshine said...

MMM! that breakfast looks delicious! Don't have a favorite Valentine story unless you count receiving a portable hair dryer as a present!

MJM said...

It sounds like you and your daughter share a beautiful relationship. I am certain she is thinking of you and wishing you were with her!

Maria said...

My favorite Valentine's story is how I almost didn't get engaged! Went home sick from work, told the boyfriend we'd have to do the special dinner I was making for him (individual Beef Wellington's etc.)we'd have to do it the next day or later. Couldn't figure out why he was SO insistent about us seeing each other - claimed he needed to make sure I was "OK". Sure glad I relented - who knows when he would have summoned the courage to ask me again! :-D
Besides, he had such a creative plan all in place - it was well worth it!

And as far as your daughter goes, you are not the only one lucky to know her - the world is a better place because she (and you) are in it! Be strong Mommy - this is how we grow!

Unknown said...

How to you develop that relationship. You don't see that much anymore.

evertonian said...

I know how precious my 2 daughters are to me and how hard it can be when they aren't around. But hey!
They have to spread their wings so they can become Tiggers too!
xxLynn