HAPPY VALENTINES!!

In my nearly 42 years on this big, blue, ball, I have recieved my fair share of memorable gifts. But, when I try to focus on the actual, physical gifts that I’ve received, my list of favorites is on the short side. I realized pretty early on in my life that the best and most meaningful gifts weren’t the kind, as the Grinch would say, that came wrapped with boxes and bows. Rather, they were the sort of gifts you can’t buy: friendship, encouragement, belief, and above all, love.
My husband Joe does not shower me with lavish jewlery, expensive purses or perfume. He brings a measured sensibility to everything he does, and that includes gift giving. Every year, when my birthday rolls around, or Christmas, or any other gift giving occasion, I appreciate the thoughtfulness of his gift choices, but it’s nothing compared to the human stuff he gives to me every single day.
He accepts me for who I am, without condition. This includes the ups, the downs, and the hormonally fueled not-so in-betweens. I can cry and kick and scream. I can laugh and share and give. I can be icky, and I can be fabulous. I can be a Size 10 or _ pounds overweight. In other words, I can be utterly and completely human. And he continues to give that ultimate gift of love.
I think that’s the reason why my list of actual, physical gifts over the years has never been super long or easy to recall, because all of that stuff, while nice and thoughtful and always appreciated, simply pales in comparison. Thank you Valentine, for all the wonderful gifts you give me everyday. XOXOXO