my Valentine

That day is coming; that one I’ve always dreaded. It was cute at first. Flowers and chocolate and lacy froo-froo cards found their way into my hands from boys with sweet intentions. Boys grew into men and still there were flowers and cards. Once there was a live rose from a man who didn’t believe in cut flowers. It was always a day to look forward to, like a birthday or Christmas. Once upon a time, it was a day to feel special.

 

I don’t remember when the charm of the day died. It may be that it drizzled away slowly, just another one of the pitfalls of being an adult. Work and time and money all conspired against the day of hearts and flowers. Gestures still passed between us; a box of candy or a card.

 

I want the make-a-tissue-paper-covered-shoebox for school kind of excitement back. Maybe I’ll make my own card this year. I’ll get some of those jumbo Crayolas, the kind that fit in your hand really well. I’ll need some construction paper: pink, red and white and maybe even purple. Of course, that means I need school scissors and white glue and paper doilies. If you’re going to do a thing, you’d best do it right.

 

I’ll draw hearts and clouds and arrows. I’ll take my time and use a ruler to measure it all out if I need to. And with bright colored crayons and lots of patience, maybe I’ll even stay inside the lines. I’ll write a pretty verse all my own. No leaving my fate in the hands of Hallmark this year. No way.

 

And the more I think of it, I have to wonder. It could well be that the problem with Valentine’s day all along, was in my own heart.

 

Reviews

[The Girl That Let You G..]

I think you got it perfectly at the end...Its so much more meaningful being homemade with all your heart put into it, rather then some cheesy card from hallmark or clintons, with silly pictures and verses that everyone sees...
Wonderful story Emily :)

[Robin]

oh man .... that last line

[Narnie]

My girls make me valentine's cards. They say something like 'bee mine' with a picture of a bumble bee and then inside they rather spoil the anonymity by putting 'to mum'. Haha. Valentine's... what a double edged shudder it is. But I still buy in. Just in case.

[Alicante lullaby]

this is inspiring...i'm going to shop for crayolas too and the lacy cards with pigeons and arrows...

[OT]

haha "no leaving my fate in the hands of hallmark this year" - brilliant!! you have an enchanting voice in your writings!! always such an endearing and humbling read! and I think we can all relate - valentine's is but a day - another day in the dance of life - it is we who tarnish the day with memories and opinions... the day is but a day! nice!!

[No use.]

perceptions and reflections can be quite misgiving . this is great considering i def had my good and bad valentines, but despite it all, i've never cared much for the holiday. and funny, i was thinking the same as you this time around, .. someone special make you see to change your mind??

[Gandré]

This was a sweet reflection. I liked the twist on the end. You always surprise... From your writing one can feel the practical side of yours, always, gives a feeling of warmth.

[Rachel Knight]

I just voted for this over at the anti-Valentine's Day contest. I love the nostalgic imagery, and the general feeling of nostalgia for that matter. Very well done.

The ending feels a little rushed. Why could the problem with Valentine's Day have been you? I would love to see that part expanded.

[Jacqueline]

I want the make-a-tissue-paper-covered-shoebox for school kind of excitement back.

^^^ My fave line! So whimsical and hopelessly romantic despite the situation. Sometimes we romanticise love and place too much of an importance of what we think a day like 'Valentine's Day' is. It sucks when things peter out; believe me I'm going through it now :( Vivid tale brushed with those reds, pinks and whites :)

[Creepy Swine Guy]

Seems like the magic might be in the doing. In the special care that you so vividly outline here, and in the anticipation of how much that special person is going to be thrilled with your effort. Ah yes ... memories indeed.