I love chocolate and flowers and romantic gestures, but I admit I am not completely sold on Valentine's Day.

Oh sure, it's got its high points. (Did I mention the chocolate and flowers and romance?) I enjoy kissing and candlelight as much as the next girl. It's wonderful to celebrate the loving relationships we have in our lives, romantic or otherwise. My daughters have been bringing home handmade valentines all week. What mother could complain about receiving big pink and red hearts decorated by eager pre-schooler hands? Millions of people contemplating their love for each other can't be a bad thing, if that is indeed what Valentine's Day is all about.

I have heard too many commercials for jewelry stores and florists urging extravagence over sentiment not too be a little cynical about Valentine's. It is more widely celebrated than most anniversaries, so perhaps the near-blinding barrage of red and pink at every grocery store in town is the saving grace for some men's relationships. But for the most part, this sweet little holiday has become just another retail free for all.

Even worse than the manipulative commercials are the stories I have heard of women roomates, co-workers and friends engaged in a twisted "my man loves me more" competition. The expected Valentine's Day gifts serve as trophies rather than unique expressions of love. I disagree that a token of affection requires an expensive price tag to be treasured.

You see, my homemade valentines are made by the same children who pick me dandelions all summer and share their Halloween candy in the fall. They show their love all year round, not just on the 14^th day of February. If it is truly the thought that counts, then the unexpected flowers received on any other day are more cherished and the spontaneous "Good morning beautiful" greeting lingers long after St. Valentine's red has given way to St. Paddy's green.

Comment on this story...