My Mom was in town for Valentine's Day this year which meant that Bryan and I had the option of going out on a date. We didn't. We were tired.
That's saying something.
Oh yes, we have three small children! It all makes sense again.
I decided to make the evening fancy. It was Taco Tuesday after all, and I had boxed strawberry cake mix in the pantry and Bryan had surprised me Valentine's morning with a pretty bouquet from the grocery store.
Don't read me wrong--any bouquet is a beautiful bouquet (especially when given by a wise Husband), but I really do think that flowers truly strut their stuff once arranged in a pretty vase all fancy-like.
After the flowers were strutting around, I stole the candle sticks from the mantel, pulled out some moss, our wedding registry glassware, a fabric garland from a bridal shower, those MAGIC twinkly lights, and every votive candle and holder I could find in the house. It was a great combo. The only thing that cost me was the $1 heart shaped doilies that became the table runner. (Thanks Target, for keeping me poor with that dang Dollar Spot.)
I feel I should mention that my two little boys were quite literally bouncing around the house working off their post-class-party sugar highs while I decorated. I've gotten really good at ignoring it. I think that means I'm officially a Professional Mom!
We ate our green chile chicken tacos (GRACIAS, MOM), our strawberry cake, and discussed Rescue Bots over candlelight and amid the yells of The Haysie. (Or Crazy Hayes. They both work.)
I really like little holidays like this. I believe that we should all sit around fancy tables every once in a while on Taco Tuesday and enjoy the chaos and exhaustion and the people God gave us to love. That's the best kind of Valentine's Day.
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Bryan and I have been working hard on family traditions this last year as Parker has entered the land of long-term memories. (I believe this happens on the 4th birthday, FYI.) Our Valentine's Day traditions consist of the following:
1. Wake the kids up to cards and boxes of chocolates.
2. Hopefully wake myself up to a bouquet of flowers from my thoughtful Husband.
3. Maybe surprise Husband (and me?) with a nice gift if funds allow (they did not this year, but that is alright).
4. Take Valentine's cards and treats to school and return home with ALL THE CANDY after some sugar-crazed class parties. (I loved this part as a kid!)
5. Go through candy and cards. Begin consuming.
6. Play "Love" themed music while we decorate the table, cook dinner, and bake semi-homemade pink cake.
7. Thank the Lord for those we love!
8. Fall into bed tired but happy.
Now that's a great day.
