Love Day

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Today (like everyday) is a day to celebrate love. And though I'm romantically unattached, I have no shortage of love in my life. So, to my amazing friends, I say Happy Valentine's Day and don't ever be afraid to love - it can only be a good thing. <3

The Real Meaning of Valentine's Day

{me and my sister last night}

Last night, I went to my Great-Uncle Harry's 80th birthday dinner. It was held at a lovely restaurant called Truxton's in Westchester. There was a surprise musical performance by my 10 and 11 year old cousins, very moving toasts and great food.

Uncle Harry and Aunt Bev are this amazing couple with an amazing story. They met at work in the early 1950's, both young college graduates working at an engineering firm. He had a fancy car, she wanted to take a ride in his fancy car; that was the beginning of an over 30 year love affair. Harry and Bev had three talented, intelligent daughters who each had two more talented, amazing children.

I love that whenever we're together, Uncle Harry and Aunt Bev always say how much they wish my grandma and grandpa were there. Whenever they mention their success, they mention how my grandpa sacrificed so that his little brother, Harry, could go to college and become the man that he is. They are such humble, loving, down-to-earth people and I am lucky to know them, much less call them family.

I never knew this extended family until I was an adult, but maybe this is better. I can appreciate them in a way I may not have if I had grown up with them. I see their love and caring and I really see what family means. It's not just the people who are related to you, it's the people you choose to surround yourself with. It's embracing love from all directions. Which is what Valentine's Day is all about, right?

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you!

Snarky Valentines: Lasercut-Style

Valentine's Day is a time for showing how much you really, really, really... don't like cherubs. So, instead of giving a saccharine, frilly, cupid-with-arrow valentine, give one of these. Lasercut from thick black matboard and full of snarky goodness, one of these is exactly what the boyfriend can expect from me (along with a big smile!). :)

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