Though I like to think myself sensible, grounded, and able to avoid the lures and traps set out for commercialized holidays such as Valentine’s Day, I am a complete V-Day Convert.

A few years ago, I was proud to say that every Valentine’s Day, I would dress in black and mourn the poor suckas who fell and stayed in love. I was jilted. I was jaded. And Cupid was definitely stupid.

In fact when I met Scott, among the million red flags I threw his way I included my utter disdain for the “holiday”.  However just like every other warning, he had some magic up his sleeve and within a month and a half of knowing him – I was a Valentine’s Day sucka just like the rest of them.

We were supposed to spend our first Valentine’s Day apart, but I spent WEEKS on a surprise trip. I went to great lengths to convince him I was unable to scoot away for the weekend and I prepared an elaborate package to send in my place. I made an hour-long video “test” (I’m a teacher, after all) to see how well he knew me, complete with a paper pencil portion and a comprehensive scoring guide so he could be appropriately awarded (and I would be waiting outside his apartment door). 

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It all went mostly according to plan, and after I arrived we had our first date in Old Town at 10PM for burgers at the Light Horse. It’s been our Valentine’s spot ever since (burgers tonight, Scott?).

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And it was that Valentine’s Day that I fell head over heels with the gush and sap that surrounds the holiday and have since been obsessed with February 14th.

Do what you wish, feel what you like, but I’ve finally decided that in my 30 years of wisdom – why not celebrate? Even if you have been jilted and jaded like I was, it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate with your friends and family and spread a little love that way. Life is far too short to get bitchy about a day meant to remind each other how much we care – whether or not you spend some had-earned cash on candy, roses, or dinner. 

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Ever since I took over that first Valentine’s Day (which, by the way, was one of my FAVORITE stunts in all of history), Scott and I trade on and off who is responsible for the day. Last year was his, but as we were moving in together to our new apartment the very next morning, he “claims” he didn’t get his fair shot. So today I am being pampered and spoiled by that wonderful man of mine.

Enjoy the day, wear a little pink, and eat some chocolate.

Happy Valentine’s Day, all!

xoxo

Al