From “Julie’s Gems”: February 2002

Okay, I admit it, I’m a bah humbug when it comes to Valentine’s Day. For those of us single people, it emphasizes the fact that we are alone. Of course, the other 364 days that are not dedicated to mushy squishy love come and go with a mere whisper in my ear that my only valentines are covered in fur (No, I’m not dating Sulley from “Monster’s Inc.” I’m referring to my dogs and cats.) So why do I find myself glaring at the Valentine’s Day gifts that line the shelves in the stores? I suppose this is where I could climb onto my soapbox and blame society for making us think we need to have a significant other to be worth something, but I digress. Instead, I will count my blessings not only for my furry family, but my human family as well. After all, it is my choice to be alone, and I must think of those who have not consciously made this decision. Those that are alone due to divorce, death, or other reasons we may not understand. If you know someone who fits this category, perhaps you can reach out to them and be their valentine. Of course I’m not referring to a romantic sense, but in friendship. Bake goodies, send a letter, invite this person to a movie, or whatever way you choose to make their day. What better way to celebrate a day for love! Okay, so maybe one better way would be to rebel and shoot Cupid with his own arrow, but for now, I think I’ll take my own advice and bake cookies and write Valentine’s Day cards.