Re: Valentine's Day

It's Valentine's Day ... the so-called "Hallmark Holiday." And I'm feeling loved. Emotions flying here, there, and everywhere. Geesh! Wonders if it was something in the water, or the coffee I drank this morning. Valentine's Day usually means lots of candy and little folded up "Valentine's" that were bought at the drug store or supermarket and then addressed to various friends. I suppose that was more middle school, but the memory is clearly very solid. Now that I actually have a valentine, it's not quite as chocolate-centered as it used to be. (Don't get me wrong, I love chocolate.)

Today was our fourth Valentine's Day together. It wasn't a particularly remarkable day, so to speak. And because he's working third shift, he's sleeping during the day. But it was still a lovely day. We spent some of this morning together. And I baked him some brownies that I cut into heart shapes. And of course, there were countless hugs and kisses while he was not sleeping. And it was perfect.

Things I've been thinking about today: As cliche as it is, I'm unbelievably lucky. I am so loved, by such a wonderfully patient person, with so much to offer, who loves me for who I am, and who tells me I'm beautiful even when I've just gotten out of bed and my hair is going everywhichway and I'm not feeling particularly beautiful. But he makes me smile and feel warmfuzzies inside when I burrow my face into his wooly sweater for a hug. Patience is a virtue not to be toyed with. It must be acknowledged and nurtured. Philosophical blah-blah-blah-ing. Patience, virtue, etc, etc. But really, it's worth being patient to see what happens when we're not so in limbo. This time is a transitional one. One in which we're waiting until we can move on to the next phase of our life together. And I'm so excited!

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." - 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7.