Years ago I would have been feeling sorry for myself, not having a ‘Valentine’. The first Valentine’s Day without your sweetheart can be a flood of memories, whether they passed away, a divorce or a bad break-up. For me that first year was definitely rough. One thing I did after my husband passed; I wrote him a letter on Valentine’s day. I explained what I missed, how much I loved him etc… Somehow, writing it down, I felt a release. If you are in this stage, I really recommend trying it. You will see what I mean. You are allowed to miss those happy days. I have been single for several years, by my own choice. My youngest son used to send flowers to me a few days before Valentine’s day. He was a ‘penny-pincher’ and it cost less to send them a few days before. I don’t know if he was trying to make me feel less lonely or just wanting to show me how much he loved me. He would have made a great husband, he was very thoughtful. Since he passed away a couple of years ago… I have to admit, I miss that in a big way. Of course facebook reminds me, with pictures of those days. I love the reminders and for a moment, going back to those times.
Appreciate the great people in your life!
As the years go on I have learned, Valentine’s Day is just another day. Rather than putting myself in the sad, lonely state – I choose to celebrate the fantastic people in my life that I love so much. I spend some time making handmade valentine’s and mailing them off. I also make some scrumptious sugar cookies shaped like hearts to share. I get my pups a special treat too, I spend the most time with them – I guess that makes them my sweethearts. Putting my thoughts towards others, keeps me from feeling ‘lonely’. One year I was in DC with my sister for a quick trip. It was evening on Valentine’s Day. We were walking past a man selling bunches of flowers on the sidewalk. I thought, how sad most of these flowers have nobody to go to today. I bought a bouquet, just because. As we walked to our hotel there was a little old lady with a hunched over back, shuffling along the sidewalk. I handed her the flowers and wished her a happy Valentine’s day. She looked at me, not sure what to think. Then said ‘thank you.’ I like to think I made her day brighter. You don’t need a ‘significant other’ to celebrate love.
The BIG day
Once Valentine’s day comes, I see it as just another day really. I am fine with where I am in life right now. I actually like being single. I am not saying I have always liked it, but it has grown on me. So, on Valentine’s Day I do something for ME. Something I enjoy. I might go to the shop and pick up a small bouquet of flowers. Maybe go for a nice drive in the country, just to marvel at the wonderful beauty surrounding me. I am beyond grateful to live in the gorgeous state of Utah, I see something new every time I go for a drive. I can cook my favorite meal, along with desert. Even trying out a new recipe would be fun. When evening comes.. It’s time to pop some popcorn & snuggle up in my most favorite gingham, fluffy blanket on the recliner. I have several movies that I have been meaning to watch (as I am sure you have), now is the time to pick one or two… just get lost in a good movie. Sure, it might be easy to just do your normal, everyday routine instead. But… YOU are awesome – do something you love, for you! Happy Valentine’s Day!
It's Probably Sharon 