Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
Sugar is Sweet,
And so are you!
Will you be my Valentine?
Do you remember as a child giving little valentine cards, each with various sayings, and then slipping them in a classmate's heart-decorated box, signed with “love from your secret admirer?” My grandchildren are doing this right now!
The actual history of Valentine's Day is lengthy, but in short, sending a Valentine as a gesture of courtship is a custom that began in England and France in the 18th century.
So, why are red roses so popular for Valentine’s Day? In the Victorian days, certain flowers had a language of their own and relayed different messages to the recipient: red roses, tulips, and carnations meant “I love you!”
Valentine's Day has become such a commercial holiday in America. So, beyond buying a card, or other tokens of love such as chocolates and flowers on just Valentine’s Day, why not celebrate the language of love all year long, with little gestures you create for your loved ones? Here are a few ideas:
My daughter makes heart-shaped pancakes that delight her children, not only on Valentine’s Day. It’s so easy to do.
Cutting out pink paper hearts and writing a love message, slipping it in a lunchbox, a suitcase, a briefcase, or in a place that you know the recipient will look, but still be surprised, is so simple yet meaningful. Use pinking shears to make the hearts extra special.
I create little flower arrangements in silver baby cups to put in our children and grandchildren’s bedrooms when they visit.
My darling husband surprises me with flowers weekly, either from his garden or from our local florist (he always asks for the freshest ones). So, as I arrange the flowers he gives me, I also use some of them to create a petite arrangement to place by his bedside.
I like to use my heart-shaped cookie cutters all year to bake cookies for children and guests alike. They are perfect for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches too.
While celebrating Valentine’s Day this year, think of ways to keep the spirit going all year long for your loved ones. What will you do?!
Xx from Berlin, Germany
Holly
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