What does Valentine's Day mean to you?

I admit to having had unrealistic Valentine's Day expectations as I imagine a lot of women have. In the past, I equated the cost of a gift with the value of the love behind it. I have learned that it's quite the opposite. Matthew hates Valentine's Day because he feels it is a holiday purely created and stimulated by the retail industry. Obviously his argument has merit. But here's the thing. I like that we have a day to remind us to stop and appreciate the love we have in our lives. And I don't just mean between lovers. I mean in all aspects of our lives. I still love to give and get gifts but know it is the love behind them that fills it with meaning. With all the stuff that is happening in our world today, does it really hurt us to take a day to remember LOVE?

So what does Valentine's Day mean to you? Where do you find love in your life? Here are a few of my thoughts:

Love is....

the screeching 3 year old running, shouting mommmmmeeeeeeeeeee when I come home from work, leaping into my arms and wrapping all his limbs around me as tight as he can.

the rosey-cheeked girl with the bouncy curls, eager to tell me about the books she just read, the friend she made, or the art she created.

zurburts, strawberries, raspberries and watermelon kisses. Yes, those are our names for them.

the eyes of a beautiful dog that I adore but wish I had more time to spend with.

the scent of a clean house.

the smell of beach and sand and suntan lotion.

sharing a meal with my husband of 10 years where the conversation inevitably comes around to our kids and how they make us laugh.

seeing my children's eyes light up as they explore the world.

getting the privilege of waking up beside my best friend every day, knowing we can get through anything as long as we are together.

everything to me and not just some greeting card cliche.

Feel free to post your thoughts, too!

Happy Valentine's Day to you but more importantly...Happy LOVE Day!